Grow Kit FAQ's
Where should I grow my mushroom kit? What temperature?
For optimal results, place the Smart Mushrooms kit at room temperature (14-22°C), in a well-ventilated and well lit area. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as they can affect mushroom growth.
How to start?
1. Pull the circular coloured tab off the front of the box. Cut an X in the bag exposed (do not cut any plastic off).
2. Spray the plastic flaps 2x or more per day until harvest. Place in a light space but not in direct sunlight.
How often should I mist the growing kit?
To maintain proper moisture levels, mist the kit's surface and under the plastic flaps with water twice per day. Spray them 2-5x per day with up to 10 sprays at a time. As the mushrooms appear spray them more to aid their growth.
How long do mushroom growing kits last?
It's advisable to initiate fruiting as soon as possible, in case the need arises, you can safely store your mushroom grow kit in the refrigerator for a duration of up to 6 months.
How long does it take for mushrooms to grow?
It will typically take 7-14 days for the kit to produce the first crop of mushrooms. Please note that actual growth time may vary based on environmental conditions and the specific kit you are using.
How do mushroom growing kits work?
We grow the mycelium (roots of the mushrooms) on recycled oak sawdust. Then, you can grow the mushrooms at home by cutting a small X in the grow bag and spraying it twice per day. The mycelium senses light, humidity, and fresh air, and then begins to grow mushrooms.
How many harvests can I expect?
With the Smart Mushrooms kit, you can expect multiple harvests. On average, you can expect 2-3 flushes of mushrooms from a single kit, and sometimes even more! Each flush may vary in size and duration, but with proper care, you can enjoy multiple harvests. Make sure to recycle the content/substrate of the kit in the garden and you may even produce new crops each year!
Can I grow them outdoors?
The Smart Mushrooms kit is primarily designed for indoor cultivation. While it's possible to grow mushrooms outdoors, it requires careful consideration of environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, and protection from pests. Following the provided indoor instructions will yield the best results.
Can I reuse the mushroom growing kit after all the mushrooms have been harvested?
Our kits should produce 2-3 flushes once you have had 2 or 3 flushes we recommend recycling the spent kit as a nutrient-rich compost or adding it to your garden soil to enrich the organic matter. You may even find more mushrooms popping up from time to time.
Are mushroom growing kits safe to eat?
Yes, the oyster mushrooms grown with the Smart Mushrooms kit are safe to eat when harvested at the appropriate stage of maturity. However, if you have any allergies or concerns, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before consuming them.
What are the kits made from?
Our kits are made from locally recycled oak sawdust which the mushrooms use as rocket fuel to help them grow!
Help! My Kit Has Gnats
Gnats and fruit flies are common in homes with houseplants, compost bins, and unrefrigerated fruit, and can even live in water pipes. When you bring in a mushroom kit, these pests may be attracted to it, especially in warmer months. First, identify and treat the source within your home. You can also create a natural repellent by mixing a few drops of dish soap, a tablespoon of vinegar, and a tablespoon of baking soda per cup of water. Spray this mixture on the outside of the kit (not directly on the mushrooms) and reapply if gnats reappear.
My mushroom kit is growing mushrooms inside the bag. Is this normal?
Yes, this is completely normal and indicates a vigorous kit. The bag has a filter to provide fresh air and oxygen, which encourages mycelium growth towards it. If the mushrooms inside the bag are accessible, you can simply break them off and compost them, allowing you to start fresh.
What is the amber-colored liquid on my mushroom kit?
The amber-colored liquid is called "mycelial exudate." It's a natural and harmless byproduct of the mycelium's metabolic process. Fungi digest outside their body by releasing enzymes into their environment to break down materials for absorption. These amber beads are essentially digestive juices.
Why Did My Kit Start Then Stop Growing?
Mushroom pins usually stop growing when there isn't enough humidity around the block. Don't worry—your kit still has all the nutrients it needs to produce mushrooms. Follow these steps to get it growing again:
1. Pick off the dried-up pins and let the block dry out on a plate for one week.
2.Soak the block for 20 minutes in cold water.
3. Drain all the water from the kit.
4. Restart the process by maintaining humidity.
When you see baby mushrooms forming (pinning), keep misting the block 2-3 times daily with water to keep it hydrated. Keep a close eye on the kit to ensure it stays moist.By following these steps, you can help your mushroom kit resume growth and produce more mushrooms.
When should I harvest my oyster mushrooms?
We recommend harvesting oyster mushrooms right before their caps begin to flatten out, while the edges are still a little curved under.
At this stage, the mushrooms are almost fully grown and will store better than if harvested later.
Mushrooms harvested after the caps have flattened may not keep as long and can become more brittle.
To harvest, gently reach your hand around the base of the mushroom cluster and twist. This motion should pop the mushrooms off the block. Alternatively, you can use a knife if preferred. Before preparing for a potential second flush by misting the block again, remove any loose debris.
If mushrooms appear dried out, moldy, or unappetizing, they likely weren't harvested early enough. Feel free to send us a photo for assistance. Mushrooms with long stems and small caps may indicate a high CO2 environment; improving airflow, such as with a fan, can help. Harvesting at the optimal time and maintaining suitable conditions will ensure you enjoy the best quality and yield from your oyster mushroom kit.
How do I get a second flush from my kit?
After harvesting your first flush, continue spraying your kit daily. Use a humidity tent if the kit looks dry to maintain moisture levels.
Keeping the kit hydrated is essential throughout the process.
No need to remove the block or cut a second X. Typically, in about 2 weeks, you should start seeing baby mushrooms (pins) forming again.
Subsequent fruitings may take longer to appear. If you notice no progress after a couple of weeks, it may be time to consider soaking your block.
Soaking the block: Take the block out of the box and place it cut side down in a bowl of water for 20 minutes.Draining and drying: After soaking, allow the block to drain cut side down for 10 minutes to remove excess water. Pat the block dry with a towel before placing it back in the bag. Return the bag to the box continue spraying it 2-3 times daily.
Lions Mane Tincture FAQs
Fruit body or mycelium?
Our tinctures are made of 100% fruit body and contain no mycelium, ensuring maximum potency.
What are functional mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms are types of fungi known for their health benefits beyond their nutritional compositions. Each mushroom offers specific benefits unique to its properties.
What are the main benefits of Lions Mane?
Lions Mane offers several benefits:
- It improves memory and focus by stimulating neuron growth, making it helpful for ADHD and brain fog.
- Research suggests it aids digestion due to its natural antibacterial properties.
- It may alleviate mild symptoms of anxiety and depression by enhancing hippocampal function.
- It boosts the immune system by reducing inflammation and preventing oxidation.
- (Additional benefits can be added as needed)
To look at the research and find out more go to our blogs.
What is the best way to take Smart Mushrooms?
Smart Mushrooms tinctures can be consumed in water, added to your favourite drink or for optimal absorption, placing the liquid under the tongue is advised for 30s. We recommend taking 2-4 droppers full (1-2ml) daily. Cooking with them is also an option to enjoy their benefits.
When is the best time to take Smart Mushrooms
The best time varies depending on the mushroom. For Lions Mane, taking it in the morning can enhance focus.
How much should I take?
We suggest 1-2ml per day to comply with regulations. However, many people take more to enhance the effects. Unlike drugs, mushrooms have higher dosage flexibility and generally result in minimal to no side effects.
How long does it take to feel the effects of Smart Mushrooms?
The timeframe varies for individuals, but consistency is key. We recommend taking 2ml every day for a month to evaluate the results. Lions Mane's effects can be felt quickly, often within the first few weeks or even immediately!
Are your mushrooms psychoactive?
Our products are purely functional and non-psychedelic. They do not contain any psychoactive compounds. Functional mushrooms can be consumed daily to enhance functioning and promote mind and body healing.
Where are your mushrooms grown?
All Smart Mushrooms are grown on our family farm in Wiltshire to decrease carbon emissions and insure our products are of the highest quality.
Can Lions Mane help with focus?
Lions Mane has been shown to promote focus, memory, and mental clarity. It can even aid in the repair and regeneration of new brain cells.
Is Lions Mane suitable for children?
Functional mushrooms offer potential benefits for children, but there is no definitive research on this topic. There is also no indication that they pose any danger to children. We recommend avoiding giving Lions Mane to children under 10 years old, as their bodies are still developing. It's always advisable to consult a paediatrician before introducing any supplements to a child's diet, especially if they are on medication.
Are your products organic?
Although we haven't obtained organic certification, our mushrooms are 100% natural and organic as far as we know. They are not treated with any harmful substances.
Can I take Smart Mushrooms while pregnant?
We always recommend consulting your doctor before taking our products if you are pregnant. All our products are 100% natural and caffeine-free.
Do Smart Mushrooms break your fast?
Our mushroom tinctures contain a few calories, approximately 2 kcal per 2ml of mushroom tincture. Generally, drinking these products without milk and sticking to the recommended dose should not break your fast according to the general advice.