How Are Mushrooms Grown with Room Temperature and Humidity?

Temperature

• Mushrooms favor temperatures from 74 to 77 Fahrenheit when mycelium are coursing through the growing medium known as the substrate or on logs. A 10-degree drop in temperature after the mycelium have matured will produce immature mushrooms called "pins." This can be accomplished by placing shiitake logs in cold water for a 24-hour soak to force fruiting.

Humidity

• Ambient air-moisture levels need to remain high, at 80 percent and higher, for successful fruiting of the mushroom. This can be accomplished with a bottle mister and water, open trays of water or misting systems. Measure humidity levels with a hygrometer.

Environment

• High humidity can force other types of fungi and bacteria to proliferate, which compete with gourmet strains. Air must be circulated using fans and vents, which neutralizes the carbon dioxide emitted by developing mushroom caps for optimum production.