Substrate
Pronunciation: SUB-straight
book-open general
The material that mushroom mycelium grows on and consumes for nutrition. Common substrates include straw, hardwood, grain, and specialized mixes like coco coir.
Also known as: bulk substrate, growing medium, spawn substrate
Substrate is the food source for mushroom cultivation - the material mycelium colonizes and consumes to produce mushrooms. Choosing the right substrate is crucial for successful growing.
Types of Substrates
Nutritious substrates (require sterilization):
- Grain (rye, oats, millet)
- Brown rice flour
- Supplemented sawdust
Bulk substrates (require pasteurization):
- Coco coir
- Straw
- Hardwood pellets
- Manure
Key Properties
Ideal substrates provide:
- Proper nutrition for target species
- Good structure for air exchange
- Appropriate moisture retention
- Resistance to contamination
Different mushroom species prefer different substrates - oyster mushrooms thrive on straw while shiitake prefer hardwood.