It is that time of year again! It is time to start thinking about plugging logs. Here is a basic break down of inoculating mushroom logs.
1) What makes a good log:
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Logs must be cut from healthy living trees.
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No rot at all on tree.
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Be prepared to plug logs anywhere from 1 week to 2 months after the tree was felled.
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Best to cut while the tree is dormant.
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Keep the bark undamaged and as intact as possible.
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Keep the logs clean and off the ground by stacking them on a crate or scraps of wood.
*Always have permission from the property owner if you are taking a tree that is not on your land!
2) What tree species to use?
3) The supplies you will need are:
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A drill
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Wax - soy, bees, or cheese are all acceptable- we use this cheese wax
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A place to soak logs for 12/24 hours
If using sawdust spawn you will need:
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7/16th drill bit
- -5/16th inch drill bit
4) How to inoculate the log
- Start drilling holes two inches from the end of the log about six inches apart from each other.
- For Sawdust Spawn: Drill holes 1⁄2” deep. Inset inoculation plunger in sawdust and then plunge in to the drilled holes.
- For Plug Spawn: Drill holes 1 1⁄4” deep. Insert plug spawn in to the drilled holes.
- Cover all holes and damaged bark areas with wax.
- Soak logs in water for 12/24 hours and then set them in a shady place, off the ground.
- Make sure your logs stay moist though out the year water logs if there is extended period without rain.
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