How to Grow Mushrooms With Perlite in Humidity

In addition to adding an earthy taste and texture to foods, mushrooms are also low in calories and an excellent source of niacin, potassium and riboflavin. In order to thrive, mushrooms require moisture and humidity. The use of perlite, a volcanic rock with a high moisture content, is an ideal medium to grow mushrooms inside a homemade terrarium. Housing the terrarium in a humid environment will provide you with a wealth of mushrooms.

Clear, plastic tote with lid
Sharp knife
4 wooden blocks
Shallow baking pan
Hygrometer
Lamp
Fluorescent bulb

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a 1/4-inch hole into each corner of a clear, plastic tote with a sharp knife. The holes provide the mushrooms with adequate drainage.
- 2
  Set the plastic container onto four wooden blocks that are at least 2 inches in height. Place a shallow baking dish under the blocks to catch drippings from the tote.
- 3
  Cover the clear tote’s floor with a 2-inch layer of perlite. Add a 3/4-inch layer of water to the perlite. Allow the water level to sit above the perlite.
- 4
  Set the mushroom cakes on top of the perlite. Mushroom cakes are colonized fungal spores that will sprout the mushrooms.
- 5
  Install a hygrometer inside the plastic tote. Hygrometers measure relative humidity and are crucial to ensure the humidity inside the totes remains between 90 and 100 percent at all times.
- 6
  Cover the plastic tote with a matching lid and set it under a lamp fitted with a fluorescent bulb. Do not allow the tote to rest against the bulb or melt due to excessive heat.
- 7
  Monitor the fruiting chamber and mist the perlite with plain water to maintain the relative humidity.

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