How to Grow Honey Fungus

Purchase honey fungus from a reputable mycologist. Find one in your area through the member directory of The Mycological Society of America (msafungi.org). Your local farmer's market may sell these mushrooms as well. Do not, under any circumstances, pick honey fungus in the wild to grow unless you are an expert; many poisonous mushrooms resemble honey fungus.

Chop a log of wood, preferably in the spring, and begin your project the same day you cut the log. This will help maintain the log's sugar content. The log should be at least 2 feet long; hardwood trees such as oak work best.

Select a shady location, either outdoors or in a garage or shed. Be aware that honey fungus spores can travel 20 feet or more; if you want to protect your hard from being colonized, grow the mushrooms well away from it. Choose a spot that will be warm during the summer.

Chop the mushroom samples into 2-inch pieces.

Hammer the chisel into the surface of the log to create a 2-inch deep hole for each of the mushroom pieces. Space the holes at least 6 inches apart. Tuck one piece of honey fungus into each hole.

Melt the beeswax over low heat on the stove top. Pour 1/2 oz. of beeswax into each hole and allow to cool.

Saturate the log with water every four days for eight weeks, preferably over the summer. When the weather begins to cool, place the log in a large tub and fill with water to immerse it. Allow the log to soak for 24 hours.

Slice the mushrooms from the trunk when they appear within one week. Clean with a mushroom brush before using.