1.Where do I put my kit?
The ideal temperature is between 20oC to 25oC. A cupboard, garage, under a bed, wardrobe, under the stairs: somewhere that gets some fresh oxygen. It doesn't have to be in complete darkness.
2. My kit has not started to grow?
After you have put the casting/peat layer on top it will take 3 weeks before you see mushrooms coming through. This may even take longer if you are in a colder climate.
3. How much water should I give my kit?
The top of the kit should be damp like a wet sponge, but not dripping. Be careful not to overwater: you don’t want the mushroom compost underneath to get wet.
4. White stuff has started to grow through the top layer?
This is called mycelium, which shows your kit is healthy. You can break this up by using a fork to scratch the top of your kit, to a depth of 1cm. Then even out the surface of your kit with your hand. This usually happens when the kit is under watered, so increase your watering. (ref to FAQ 3)
5 I had my first crop them it stopped growing?
Please be patient and don't over water. We are dealing with a living organism: please be patient.
6 I have mushroom growing around the outside or over to one side. How do I get my kit to even out?
In time you will find the mushrooms will start grow in these other areas.
7. I have little flies around my kit?
These flys are attracted by the compost. Spread some olive oil with your finger around the lip of your kit: the flys will get stuck to this and die out.
8 How long will my kit last for?
Generally speaking the kit should produce for around 3 months.
9 What do I do with the compost when the kit is finished?
You can put the compost in your veggie garden or in your garden beds.
10 When should I pick my mushroom?
That is completely up to you, and what size mushrooms you like to eat. A mushroom will double in size in a 24 hour period. But just remember the bigger the mushroom, the less number you will have.
11 Is there something I can add to the compost to get more mushrooms?
No, the compost gets too mature to grow any more mushrooms.
12 When is it the best time to grow mushrooms?
Mushrooms can be grown all year round in the right environment.