Manual: Lion's Mane Plug Spawn

What you need:

Lion's mane plug spawn
Supplied wax
A fresh, untreated hardwood log or block
Drill with an 8-10 mm wood bit

Step 1: Preparing the log or the wood block

Use a healthy hardwood log, such as beech, oak or maple, without signs of disease or other fungal growth. The wood must be fresh, preferably within 2-4 weeks after felling. The log or the wood block should be about 50 cm long and have a diameter of 20-40 cm. You can also use a stump of a felled hardwood tree.

Step 2: Drilling holes

Drill holes about 35-40 mm deep into the log or the wood block with an 8-10 mm wood bit. The holes should be about 15 cm apart in a diamond pattern. Cover the whole surface of the log or the wood block with holes.

Step 3: Inoculating and applying wax

Push the lion's mane plugs into the drilled holes until they are flush with the surface of the wood. Cover the plugs with pieces of mouldable wax or melt the supplied wax in a bain-marie or in a wax melter. Use a brush to apply the melted wax carefully over the plugs and the drilled holes.

Step 4: Placement and care

Place the inoculated log or the wood block in a shady environment. Keep the wood moist by spraying it with water during dry periods.

Step 5: Patience and observation

It takes several months before the lion's mane mycelium has spread completely through the wood and starts to produce fruiting bodies. During this time, check regularly for signs of growth.

Step 6: Harvesting

Harvest the lion's mane when the spines are long and firm, but before they start to discolour or wilt. Use a sharp knife to cut the mushrooms off close to the wood.

Step 7: Enjoy

Lion's mane has a mild, sweet flavour and a texture that resembles that of lobster or crab. Try frying them in butter with a hint of garlic and parsley, or add them to soups and sauces. They are also delicious in pasta or risotto.