Log Gardens

Logs should be as fresh as possible, have as much intact bark as possible. Rest logs for 2 weeks after felling and cut into chunks roughly as long as the trunk is wide for stability and quick colonization. 

No land, no chainsaw? No problem - We purchased the logs pictured here pre-cut from Trees to Dreams in Canaan, NH.  Buying pre-cut wood is a nice worry free option that can get you started right away. That said, there are many sources of suitable wood throughout New England and some of them are free! 

The amount of spawn needed varies greatly with log size. Our spawn can vary in density based on the wood products we have available. Per 3" to 6" diameter 3-segment log, we typically use 1/4 to 1/2 lb. spawn. Larger logs over 12" diameter can take up to 1 lb. of spawn each.

Grain spawn is not the best choice for logs. Sawdust spawn is less likely to attract pests or become moldy pressed between logs. Grain spawn can still work in a pinch.

A small amount of green mold may occur on indoor incubated logs. This is normal and will go away once the log has been outside for a bit.

Important: Do NOT incubate mushroom logs in paper bags directly on any wooden surface

Paper: Use lawn and leaf bags for large logs, brown paper grocery bags for smaller logs. After testing, we prefer to avoid plastic bags. Brown paper can be used as a biodegradable barrier after unwrapping and helps to form a humid microclimate for the log rather than being thrown away or decaying into microplastics.

Bucket method: Use a clean 5 gallon bucket for smaller logs less than 14 inches long. Use breathable fabric, brown paper, or a recycled plastic bag with plenty of ventilation holes to cover the bucket. Use twine or a bungee cord to secure the cover.

Corrugated cardboard cut a bit larger than the log end is layered to make end caps and keep spawn in place.

As an abundant biodegradable waste product, cardboard is perfect for eco-friendly mushroom growing.

A staple gun with long enough staples to secure 2 layers of corrugated cardboard to the log is optional, but helpful, to keep spawn in place and moisture in the log. Other fasteners including wire or twine can also be used as needed. 

You can skip this step or just write the species & date on the log with waterproof marker. Permanent labels are easy to make and helpful if you grow more than 1 variety or add logs annually.

Materials: - Aluminum can, snips or old scissors, ball point pen, wire nails, hammer

We cut aluminum drink cans into strips for free eco-friendly labels - they emboss easily with a ball point pen. Nail the label directly onto the top cardboard cap. Get creative with scraps on hand for your own recycled labels!

Gather: Hardwood logs cut to length, sawdust spawn, brown paper bags or buckets, corrugated cardboard, box cutter or scissors, staple gun with long staples or other fastener, labeling materials. 

Stack your logs and try to ensure they line up just like the original tree *before* adding spawn. If cutting your own logs, draw a line down the trunk with chalk or marker to make re-stacking easier. 

The best place to work on any mushroom project is in the great outdoors! 

Always protect any wooden surface from prolonged contact with mushroom spawn. Use a waterproof barrier for easier cleanup while working indoors. 

Wash your hands thoroughly, wear clean clothes, and make sure buckets (if using) have been thoroughly washed and dried. We recommend wiping down plastics with 5% distilled white vinegar and/or 70% isopropyl alcohol

Set up your incubation bags or buckets and make cardboard end caps

Open up a paper lawn & leaf bag or doubled up kraft grocery bag the correct size for your log - or - a clean 5 gallon bucket for smaller logs. A plastic tote without the lid may be used for a batch of logs.  .

Cut 4 squares of corrugated cardboard per log stack, slightly larger than the diameter of the cut ends.

Make a 1/4" to 1/2" thick patty of spawn on top of 2 cardboard squares. Place the bottom log section on top of the spawn. Using the staple gun or alternate method, secure corners to log to hold the spawn in place. Gently place in bag or bucket.

 Repeat with remaining log sections, adding a patty of spawn between each. Try to ensure enough thickness at the edges. Spritz each log face with water to encourage growth. Use pressure to settle log sections together.

 Add a final extra thick patty of spawn to the topmost cut face of the log. Apply the remaining cardboard squares to keep spawn in place. Label with the method of your choice. 

 If using a tall lawn and leaf bag, wrap the top down over the cardboard topper to close. Ensure a little bit of air exposure to allow the mycelium to breathe.

If using paper grocery bags, place a bag upside down over the top.

If using a 5 gallon bucket, cover loosely with a plastic bag or plastic sheeting with a few holes punched for air. Secure plastic with twine or a bungee cord if needed. Plastic grocery bags fit 5 gallon buckets perfectly without tying.

Incubate for 3-12 months, depending on size and species, in an undisturbed area. In fall and winter, incubate indoors. The log sections will fuse together firmly. Mycelium may colonize the cardboard and/or paper.  

For large logs, when feasible, building in place where they will be incubated and fruited can be smart. Outdoor incubated logs should be started in spring.

DO NOT STORE ON WOODEN SURFACES without a substantial barrier! We place paper wrapped incubating logs on cinder blocks, plastic pallets, or into heavy duty totes.