Instructions: Reishi Plugs

Supplies:

  • Ganoderma Lingzhi (Reishi / Lakzwam) plugs
  • Supplied wax
  • A hardwood trunk or hardwood block (preferably oak, beech or another suitable hardwood)
  • Drill with a 9 mm wood drill
  • Shovel (for digging the trunk)

Step 1: Preparing the log or log

Make sure you use a healthy hardwood trunk or hardwood block, with no signs of disease or other fungal growth. The wood must be fresh, preferably indoors 6-8 weeks after cutting.

Step 2: Drilling holes

Drill holes approximately 40mm deep into the trunk or log with a 9 mm wood drill. The holes should be spaced about 6 inches apart in a diamond pattern. Make sure you cover the entire surface of the log or log with holes.

Step 3: Inoculate and apply wax

Push the Reishi dowels into the drilled holes until they are flush with the surface of the wood. It is important that the plugs fit properly in the holes so that they do not come loose.

Cover the plugs with pieces of kneadable wax or melt the supplied wax in a bain-marie or in a wax melter. Use a brush to gently apply the melted wax over the plugs and drilled holes. Make sure the holes be completely covered with a thin layer of wax.

Step 4: Placement and care

Place the inoculated stem in a shaded area. Dig a hole and place the inoculated trunk or log vertically in the hole so that about half of the trunk is above the ground. Fill the hole with soil and make sure the trunk is sturdy.

Step 5: Patience and observation

It takes several months for the Reishi mycelium to spread completely through the wood and start producing fruiting bodies. This process can take 6 to 18 months depending on the circumstances. During this time it is important to be patient and check regularly for signs of growth. If all goes well, mycelium growth will be visible in the annual rings after a few months.

Step 6: Harvesting

Once the Ganoderma Lingzhi (Reishi / Lakzwam) start to develop, they usually grow quickly. Harvest the mushrooms when they are mature and firm, before they get too old. Use a sharp knife to cut the mushrooms close to the wood.

Step 7: Enjoy

Reishi is known for its medicinal properties and is often used in teas and tinctures. You can also try using it in soups, sauces or other dishes. Store the fresh mushrooms in the refrigerator and consume them within a reasonable time after harvesting.