How Long Do Oyster Mushrooms Take to Grow?
A timeline of the oyster mushroom lifecycle from inoculation to harvest.
Sarah
•5 min read
Ad Placeholder
Quick Takeaway
For a quick answer, check the main steps below. Always ensure proper sanitation and optimal temperatures for the best yield.
The Need for Speed
Oyster mushrooms are among the fastest-growing cultivated mushrooms in the world. From inoculation to the frying pan, the process typically takes 3 to 5 weeks.
The Timeline
- Inoculation to Full Colonization (14 - 21 days): The mycelium eats through the substrate in the bag. Keep the bag in a warm, dark place at ~75°F.
- Pinning (3 - 5 days): Once the bag is moved to fruiting conditions (high humidity, fresh air, light) and cut open, small primordia or "pins" will form at the opening.
- Fruiting (4 - 7 days): The pins will rapidly expand. Oyster mushrooms can literally double in size every 24 hours during this phase.
When to Harvest
Harvest oyster mushrooms right before the caps flatten out completely and the edges begin to curl upward. If you wait too long, they will drop millions of spores, covering your grow room in a fine white powder.
Ad Placeholder