Mushrooms are a versatile and delicious addition to any kitchen, offering a rich variety of
flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. From the meaty taste of shiitake to the delicate
flavors of oyster mushrooms, these fungi have gained significant popularity in both home
kitchens and high-end restaurants. While gourmet mushrooms are often considered a luxury
ingredient, they don’t have to be out of reach. With the right tools and knowledge, you can
grow your own fresh, gourmet mushrooms right at home.
This guide will walk you through the process of homegrown mushrooms,
specifically focusing on the best mushroom grow kits available for both beginners and
enthusiasts. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned grower, there’s something for everyone
in this guide to growing mushrooms.
Why Grow Gourmet Mushrooms at Home?
There are several reasons why you might want to grow mushrooms at home. One of the
primary reasons is the taste and quality of freshly harvested mushrooms. Store-bought
mushrooms can often be a bit lackluster in flavor, while homegrown varieties pack a much
more intense flavor profile. Additionally, growing mushrooms can be a fun and rewarding
hobby that provides a sense of accomplishment as you witness the fruits (or rather, the
fungi) of your labor come to life.
Growing mushrooms at home also allows you to experiment with different types of gourmet
mushrooms that might be hard to find in your local supermarket. If you enjoy cooking with
mushrooms, the ability to have a steady supply of fresh gourmet varieties right at your
fingertips is invaluable. Furthermore, mushrooms are known for their health benefits, which
include boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and offering a source of
vitamins like D, B-complex, and antioxidants.
Understanding the Basics of Mushroom Growing
Before diving into the world of mushroom grow kits, it’s important to understand the basics of
how mushrooms grow. Mushrooms are fungi, and they require specific conditions to thrive,
including:
● Temperature: Different types of mushrooms have different temperature
requirements, but most gourmet mushrooms grow best in a range between 55°F and
75°F (13°C to 24°C).
● Humidity: Mushrooms need high humidity levels to grow properly. Around 80-90%
humidity is ideal for most varieties.
● Light: While mushrooms don’t require direct sunlight, they do need some light to
initiate the fruiting process. Typically, indirect or low-light conditions are sufficient.
● Substrate: The material on which the mushrooms grow is called the substrate.
Common substrates include sawdust, straw, wood chips, and even coffee grounds.
● Airflow: Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the growth of harmful mold and
ensure the healthy development of the mushrooms.
With this basic knowledge in mind, let’s explore some of the top mushroom grow kits
available to help you get started.
Top Kits for Novices to Grow Mushrooms at Home
If you’re new to mushroom growing, you’ll want a kit that’s beginner-friendly, easy to use,
and doesn’t require too much hands-on effort. Here are a few options that are perfect for
newcomers to the mushroom-growing world:
1. Back to the Roots Mushroom Grow Kit
Back to the Roots is one of the most popular mushroom grow kits for beginners, and for
good reason. This kit is designed to make the process as simple as possible. It comes with
everything you need to grow your own gourmet mushrooms at home, including an organic
mushroom growing medium, a spray bottle for misting, and easy-to-follow instructions.
● Mushroom Varieties: The kit includes oyster mushrooms, which are one of the most
beginner-friendly varieties to grow. They have a short growing cycle and are easy to
care for.
● Ease of Use: No prior gardening experience is necessary. The kit comes pre-
inoculated with mushroom spores, and all you need to do is mist the kit daily and wait
for the mushrooms to grow.
● Sustainability: The substrate is made from recycled coffee grounds, making it an
eco-friendly option for those looking to grow mushrooms in a sustainable way.
2. The Magic Mushroom Grow Kit
If you’re looking for a more unique option, the Magic Mushroom Grow Kit might be just what
you need. This kit is designed to grow psilocybin mushrooms, which are sometimes referred
to as “magic mushrooms.” Though these mushrooms are primarily grown for their
psychoactive properties, they are also considered gourmet by some who appreciate their
taste and texture.
● Mushroom Variety: Psilocybin mushrooms (magic mushrooms) come in different
strains, each with its own characteristics in terms of flavor and potency.
● Ideal for Enthusiasts: While this kit is suitable for beginners in the sense that it
comes with everything you need, it does require a little more care and patience than
some of the other kits on the market.
● Grow Time: The time to harvest can be longer than other types of gourmet
mushrooms, as psilocybin mushrooms typically take 3-4 weeks to mature.
3. Mushroom Growing Kit by Unbiological Growth
This kit is another fantastic option for those just starting out. It comes with a fully prepared
substrate, a humidity dome, and easy-to-follow instructions. The instructions include step-by-
step photos, making it simple to follow even if you’ve never grown mushrooms before.
● Mushroom Varieties: Common types available in the kit include oyster mushrooms,
which are popular for their tender texture and mild flavor.
● Simplicity: This kit simplifies the growing process with minimal maintenance. All you
have to do is water it regularly, and you should begin to see mushrooms sprouting in
no time.
● Convenience: It’s a great choice for those who want fresh mushrooms but don’t
have a lot of space or equipment for complex setups.
4. Organic Oyster Mushroom Grow Kit
The Organic Oyster Mushroom Grow Kit is another excellent option for novice mushroom
growers. This kit is well-suited for people who are looking to grow mushrooms without the
need for complicated setups or too much maintenance.
● Mushroom Varieties: It focuses specifically on oyster mushrooms, which are known
for their delicate flavor and versatility in cooking.
● Sustainability: The kit uses organic materials, ensuring that your mushrooms are
free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
● Quick Harvest: Oyster mushrooms grow quickly, so you’ll be able to harvest your
first batch within a few weeks of starting.
5. Fungi Perfecti Shiitake Mushroom Kit
Shiitake mushrooms are known for their rich, savory flavor, and they’re often used in soups,
stir-fries, and other dishes. Growing shiitakes at home can be a fun project, and this kit from
Fungi Perfecti makes it easy for beginners to get started.
● Mushroom Variety: Shiitake mushrooms, with their meaty texture and rich taste, are
a favorite among gourmet cooks.
● Grow Time: Shiitake mushrooms have a slightly longer growing time, often requiring
6-8 weeks to mature, but the wait is worth it for their deep flavor.
● Easy Setup: This kit comes with everything you need, including a pre-inoculated
growing block, making it easy to start growing right away.
Best Kits for Enthusiasts to Grow Gourmet Mushrooms at Home
For those who have a bit of experience or are looking for a more advanced project, several
mushroom grow kits offer more variety and a bit of a challenge. These kits provide an
opportunity to experiment with different mushroom types and refine your skills.
1. Field & Forest Mushrooms Shiitake Mushroom Kit
The Field & Forest Mushrooms Shiitake Mushroom Kit is a more advanced option for those
interested in growing shiitakes at home. Unlike beginner kits, this kit requires inoculating
logs, which means you’ll need a bit more space and time for the process.
● Mushroom Variety: Shiitake mushrooms are the main focus, known for their unique
umami flavor.
● Grow Method: This kit involves inoculating hardwood logs with shiitake spores and
then waiting for the mushrooms to fruit. The process can take several months, but it’s
ideal for those looking to experiment with a more natural growing method.
● Longevity: Once established, the logs can produce mushrooms for years, offering a
continuous harvest.
2. MycoHaus Mushroom Cultivation Kit
The MycoHaus Mushroom Cultivation Kit is perfect for those who are serious about growing
gourmet mushrooms at home. It allows enthusiasts to experiment with different substrates and
growing environments, making it ideal for those who want to take their mushroom-growing
skills to the next level.
● Mushroom Varieties: The kit supports multiple mushroom varieties, including lion’s
mane, oyster, and shiitake mushrooms.
● Advanced Setup: With this kit, you can grow mushrooms using various substrates
like sawdust, straw, and logs, giving you the flexibility to explore different growing
methods.
● Educational Materials: The kit comes with detailed instructions and resources to
help enthusiasts grow different types of mushrooms successfully.
3. Rising Phoenix Mushrooms Lion’s Mane Kit
Lion’s mane mushrooms are highly sought after for their unique flavor, texture, and health
benefits. They are used in gourmet cooking and are often regarded as a “brain food” due to
their potential cognitive-enhancing properties. This kit allows you to grow your own lion’s
mane mushrooms at home.
● Mushroom Variety: Lion’s mane mushrooms, which have a distinct appearance and
a mild, seafood-like flavor, are a favorite for both culinary and health enthusiasts.
● Grow Time: These mushrooms take longer to grow compared to other varieties, but the
reward is a unique, delicious mushroom that’s perfect for soups, stews, and even
vegan seafood dishes.
Conclusion
Growing gourmet mushrooms at home is an incredibly rewarding experience, whether you're
a beginner or an experienced enthusiast. With the right kit, you can easily grow a variety of
mushrooms right in your own home, experimenting with different types and flavors. From the
simplicity of the Back to the Roots Mushroom Grow Kit for beginners to the advanced
MycoHaus Mushroom Cultivation Kit for seasoned growers, there’s something for everyone.
So, why not start your own mushroom-growing journey today? With a bit of patience and the
right tools, you’ll soon have a fresh batch of gourmet mushrooms to add to your culinary
repertoire.
