How to Use Sterilized Grain
How to Use Sterilized Grain
Sterilized grain is used to grow and expand mycelium before mixing with substrate. This guide covers inoculation, colonization, and getting your grain ready for the next step.
Step-by-step
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Prep your workspace
Work in a clean area and minimize airflow. Wipe down surfaces and your injection port. If using a new sterile needle, no need to flame sterilize. -
Inoculate the grain
Inject liquid culture through the port. Use about 2cc per pound of grain. -
Let it colonize
Store at room temperature (around 68–75°F). Keep out of direct sunlight. -
Break and shake at ~30%
Once about 30% of the grain is colonized, break it up and mix to speed things up. -
Wait for full colonization
Let the grain fully colonize before using it. It should be completely white and evenly covered. -
Mix with substrate
Once fully colonized, mix your grain with substrate and move into fruiting conditions.
Important Notes
- Store grain at room temperature (68–75°F) during colonization
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Do not over-inoculate (more is not better)
- If using liquid culture, you can gently mix after inoculation
- If using spores, do not mix right away
- Make sure the bag has access to air through the filter patch
Common Mistakes
- Using too much liquid culture (can slow colonization)
- Not allowing any air exchange through the filter
- Mixing too early before proper colonization
- Storing in temperatures that are too hot or too cold
- Letting the grain dry out or sit in direct sunlight