One of the most popular of gourmet mushrooms. The first Shiitake were said to have been cultivated over a thousand years ago. Normally the fungus will fruit in the spring and in the autumn. It can be forced by submersion in cold water for 24-48 hours. All being well, the log should fruit about a week after the soak. Forcing it too often will stress the mycelium. It can be done every two months, the spawn should recover after the flush. My adventure started with the purchase of an inoculated log for about ¥800. The first set back I had, was that the accompanying instructions where tidied up. I couldn't read them anyway. I did have my mushroom book. I decided that the best place for the mushroom farm would be between the house and a breeze block wall. The narrow area is shaded by the house throughout the year and fairly damp.

First Attempt

It was early May, after the usual fruiting time for mushrooms. Soaked the log, watered it daily and waited and eventually gave up. The weather, although humid was too hot. Despite watering it, it dried up. The guttering had done a good job of keeping the rain off.

Second Attempt

In late October, I decided to give it another go. After a soak, I moved the log against the wall rather than the house. I didn't pay much attention to it, everyday it rained. To my surprise... I wanted to grow this for an extra day, just to see how big it would get. This is bigger than those I've seen for sale.

Third & Fourth Attempt

I've tried standing the log in dish with a little water. This hasn't produced anything. I do think however that there isn't sufficent humidity as it is now the winter. Perhaps I need to stick a plastic bag over the top?

Initial Conclusions

Water, air and light are essential. I've read the growing medium should be allowed to dry out, after the first flush, before re-soaking. I will try a tray next, to keep it saturated during the rest period. After each flush the spawn should gain in quantity and produce more fruit.