Manual: Shiitake Donko Plug Spawn

What you need:

Shiitake plug spawn
Enclosed wax
A fresh, untreated hardwood log or block
Drill with an 8-10 mm wood bit

Step 1: preparing the log or the wooden block

Use a healthy oak, beech or chestnut log, without signs of disease or other fungal growth. The wood has to be fresh, preferably within 2-4 weeks after felling. The log or the wooden block should be about 50-100 cm long and have a diameter of 20-40 cm. You can also use a stump of a felled oak, beech or chestnut tree.

Step 2: drilling holes

Drill holes of about 35-40 mm deep into the log or the wooden block with an 8-10 mm wood bit. The holes should be about 15 cm apart in a diamond pattern. Cover the whole surface of the log or the wooden block with holes.

Step 3: inoculating and applying wax

Push the shiitake plugs into the drilled holes until they are flush with the surface of the wood. Cover the plugs with pieces of mouldable wax or melt the enclosed wax in a bain-marie or in a wax melter. Use a brush to carefully apply the melted wax over the plugs and the drilled holes.

Step 4: placing and care

Place the inoculated log or the wooden block in a shady spot. Keep the wood moist by spraying it with water during dry periods.

Step 5: patience and observation

It takes a few months before the shiitake mycelium has spread completely through the wood and starts to produce fruiting bodies. During this time, check regularly for signs of growth.

Step 6: harvesting

Harvest the shiitake mushrooms while they are still young and firm, before the edges of the cap curl up and the spores are released. Use a sharp knife to cut the mushrooms off close to the wood.

Step 7: enjoying

Shiitake mushrooms have a rich, umami flavour and a meaty texture. They are versatile in the kitchen and can be used in stir-fries, soups, sauces and even grilled on skewers. Fry them briefly over high heat first to bring out their flavour.