NOTE: This Process applies to both Psilocybin / Magic Mushrooms AND non psychedelic mushrooms (gourmet mushrooms, functional mushrooms, grocery store mushrooms etc.)
Growing mushrooms can be an incredibly rewarding and fascinating experience. Whether you're an avid grower or a beginner, the process of collecting mushroom spore prints and creating spore syringes is an essential step in cultivating your own mushroom garden. In this article, we will guide you through the methods of collecting mushroom spore prints and making spore syringes, empowering you to embark on your exciting journey of growing mushrooms at home.
NOTE: It is recommended that if you want to try growing magic mushrooms, you can start the easy way before you embark on growing directly from a spore print. This will help you understand a lot of the basics that come into play later in your growing from spore journey. So what is the easy way? Well we have that covered for you. You can order a fully colonized ready to fruit psilocybin grow kit from our store here! The mushrooms usually start to grow within 5-20 days of setting up the kit with minimal steps involved. This is because we have done the first 12 weeks of work for you. If you were to grow from spore, it would take anywhere from 6-18 weeks to see your first mushroom babies. Once you have this easier way with our kit dialed, you can then move on to trying to grow from spore or liquid culture. What is liquid culture? Well you can read all about it here, and we even show you how to make it here.
Part 1: Understanding Magic Mushroom Spore Prints
Before you can create a spore syringe, you need to collect a mushroom spore print.
Magic Mushroom Spore Print
Spore prints are a representation of the mushroom's unique genetics and are used to propagate specific mushroom species. Here's how you can collect them:
Selecting the Right Mushroom: Choose a mature mushroom that is in its prime, as it will have the highest spore production. Ensure it is free from damage or disease. Different mushroom species have distinct spore colors, so select a species that suits your preferences or the one you intend to cultivate.
Gathering the Materials: To collect a spore print, you will need a fresh mushroom, a clean sheet of white paper or glass surface, and a glass or jar.
Creating the Spore Print: Place the mushroom cap, gill-side down, on the sheet of paper or glass. Cover it with a glass or jar to create a controlled environment. Leave it undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours, allowing the mushroom to release spores onto the surface.
Collecting the Spore Print: After 24 to 48 hours, carefully lift the glass or jar, and gently lift the mushroom cap. You will notice a spore pattern on the paper or glass. Using a sterilized knife or scalpel, carefully scrape the spores into a clean container, ensuring no contamination occurs.
Section 2: Creating a Spore Syringe
Once you have collected the spores, the next step is to create a spore syringe. A spore syringe is used to inoculate a growth medium with mushroom spores. Here's how you can make one:
Magic Mushroom Spore Syringe
Gathering the Materials: You will need the following materials to create a spore syringe: a sterile syringe (10-12 ml), a sterile needle (18-20 gauge), a spore print, sterile water, and a flame source (e.g., lighter, alcohol burner).
Preparing the Syringe: Ensure the syringe and needle are sterilized by passing them through a flame several times. Allow them to cool before proceeding.
Preparing the Spore Solution: Grind the spore print using a sterilized grinder or pestle and mortar until it turns into a fine powder. Transfer the powder into a sterile container. Add a small amount (around 10-15 ml) of sterile water to the container and mix well to create a spore solution.
Filling the Syringe: Draw the spore solution into the syringe, ensuring no air bubbles are present. Attach the needle to the syringe, taking care not to touch the needle or the inside of the cap.
Storing the Spore Syringe: Store the spore syringe in a cool, dark place until you are ready to use it. It can be refrigerated for several months.
In conclusion, collecting mushroom spore prints and creating spore syringes is an important skill for mushroom cultivation enthusiasts. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently embark on your mushroom-growing journey. Remember to maintain proper sterilization practices throughout the process to ensure successful cultivation.
When you feel ready, you can go on to make some Liquid Culture or an Agar Plate from your spore syringe. Learn about agar here, and learn about the process to make it here. Learn about liquid culture here, and learn how to make it here! Happy mushroom growing!
