Manual: Reishi Plug Spawn

What you need:

  • Ganoderma Lingzhi (Reishi / lacquered polypore) plugs
  • Supplied wax
  • A hardwood log or hardwood block (preferably oak, beech or another suitable hardwood)
  • Drill with a 9 mm wood bit
  • Spade (for burying the log)

Step 1: Preparing the log or block of wood

Make sure you use a healthy hardwood log or hardwood block, without signs of disease or other fungal growth. The wood must be fresh, preferably within 6-8 weeks of felling.

Step 2: Drilling holes

Drill holes about 40 mm deep into the log or block of wood with a 9 mm wood bit. The holes should be about 15 cm apart in a diamond pattern. Make sure you cover the whole surface of the log or block of wood with holes.

Step 3: Inoculating and applying wax

Push the Reishi plugs into the drilled holes until they are flush with the surface of the wood. It is important that the plugs fit tightly in the holes, so they do not come loose.

Cover the plugs with pieces of mouldable wax or melt the supplied wax in a bain-marie or in a wax melter. Use a brush to apply the melted wax carefully over the plugs and the drilled holes. Make sure the holes are completely covered with a thin layer of wax.

Step 4: Placing and caring

Put the inoculated log in a shady spot. Dig a hole and place the inoculated log or block of wood upright in the hole, so that about half of the log sticks out above the ground. Fill the hole with soil and make sure the log stands firmly.

Step 5: Patience and observation

It takes several months before the Reishi mycelium has spread all the way through the wood and starts to produce fruiting bodies. This process can take 6 to 18 months, depending on the conditions. During this time it is important to be patient and to check regularly for signs of growth. If all goes well, you will see mycelium growth at the annual rings after a few months.

Step 6: Harvesting

Once the Ganoderma Lingzhi (Reishi / lacquered polypore) start to develop, they usually grow quickly. Harvest the mushrooms when they are fully grown and firm, before they get too old. Use a sharp knife to cut the mushrooms off close to the wood.

Step 7: Enjoying

Reishi is known for its medicinal properties and is often used in tea and tinctures. You can also try using it in soups, sauces or other dishes. Keep the fresh mushrooms in the fridge and eat them within a reasonable time after harvesting.