Oak hare - Maitake - Brood

Introduction

The oak hare, also known as Maitake or Grifola Frondosa, is a popular edible mushroom with medicinal properties. This manual can help you get started.

Use the brood as soon as possible after receipt or store it in the refrigerator for a maximum of several weeks.

Supplies

  1. Mushroom spawn (for oak hare).
  2. Substrate (such as wood chips, mainly from hardwood such as oak).
  3. Grow bag, bucket or container.
  4. A clean working environment.
  5. Gloves and mouth mask.

Steps

  1. Substrate preparation

    • Sterilize the substrate to eliminate possible harmful microorganisms. This can be done by steaming or boiling the substrate for a certain period of time.
    • Allow the substrate to cool to room temperature.

  2. Vaccinate with brood

    • Wear gloves and a face mask to prevent contamination.
    • Open the brood and spread it evenly over the prepared substrate in the grow bags or containers.
    • Mix the brood well with the substrate.

  3. Incubation

    • Place the inoculated bags or containers in a warm, dark place. The ideal temperature for Oak Hare is between 20°C and 24°C.
    • During this period the mycelium will spread throughout the substrate. This may take several months depending on the circumstances.

  4. Fruiting body development

    • When the substrate is fully colonized by the mycelium, you can expose it to cool, fresh air and indirect light to stimulate the fruiting bodies.
    • Ensure high humidity. This can be achieved by regularly spraying the substrate with water.

  5. Harvest

    • When the mushrooms are fully grown (usually recognizable by the spreading leaves of the Oak Hare), they are ready to be harvested. Cut them off the substrate with a sharp knife.

  6. Storage and consumption

    • Store the fresh oak tenderloin mushrooms in the refrigerator. They can also be dried for longer storage.
    • Enjoy your home-grown oak tenderloin in various culinary dishes!

Tips

  • Always ensure a clean working environment to prevent contamination.
  • If you see signs of mold or bacterial growth (other than the white oak hare mycelium), it is likely that your substrate is contaminated. It is best to discard contaminated batches to avoid spreading the contamination.