Mushroom Growing Glossary
Master the terminology of mushroom cultivation with our comprehensive glossary
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Essential Terms to Know
Contamination
Unwanted organisms (bacteria, mold, or competing fungi) that invade mushroom substrates or cultures, competing with or destroying the desired mycelium.
Mycelium
The vegetative network of thread-like hyphae that forms the main growing body of fungi. Mycelium digests nutrients, colonizes substrates, and eventually produces mushroom fruiting bodies.
Substrate
The material that mushroom mycelium grows on and consumes for nutrition. Common substrates include straw, hardwood, grain, and specialized mixes like coco coir.
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All Terms A-Z
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Substrate (SUB-straight)
The material that mushroom mycelium grows on and consumes for nutrition. Common substrates include straw, hardwood, grain, and specialized mixes like coco coir.
Also: bulk substrate, growing medium, spawn substrate
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