First time attempting to grow on boiled cardboard shred. Going much slower than I expected, but the cardboard appears to be taken over by the mycelium. Took 4 weeks for full inoculation and 6 weeks to see this flush to arrive.

Next time I’m going to add a little wheat germ to the cardboard to see if the nutrients will help with growth.

Update 11/29/2024:

Growing Oyster Mushrooms in Food-Grade Buckets

I obtain food-grade buckets from my local grocery store’s bakery for free. Although they previously held buttercream icing and still retain a slight scent after washing, this doesn’t affect mushroom growth.

I’ve noticed some Trichoderma in the buckets, but I’m not concerned, as oyster mushrooms have natural defense mechanisms to combat Trichoderma.

Here’s my process:

Bucket Preparation

1. I use a 14-pound bucket to contain the shredded cardboard.
2. I drill 1/2-inch holes at random intervals (about 6-8 inches apart) around the sides and a few in the bottom for drainage.
3. I cover the holes with micropore tape during the mycelium inoculation phase to maintain moisture and prevent contamination.

Incubation and Fruiting

1. I place the small bucket inside a larger bucket to contain any spills for easy cleanup.
2. Once the cardboard is mostly inoculated, I remove the tape from the holes.
3. I place the small bucket on the lid of the larger bucket for continued easy cleanup.
4. I spray the holes with water (1-2 squirts) to maintain moisture.
5. Finally, I wait for the mushrooms to grow.

Feel free to ask me any questions about my process!