Shiitake Mushroom Log Yard Management Workshop
In this workshop, we will cover the basics of shiitake mushroom log yard management in a natural woodland setting. These production techniques result in the best quality shiitake that can be produced. These principles can be applied to many other wood-decomposing mushrooms, including Lion’s Mane and Oyster. Workshop objectives:
- Discuss tree species selection, sourcing supplies such as inoculum strain selection (sawdust spawn) and necessary tools
- Identify the appropriate bolt species and size
- Inoculate and shock logs to force fruit mushrooms (will be demonstrated)
- Stack shiitake logs to optimize production
- Harvest mushrooms at appropriate growth stage
- Grade mushrooms maturity, shape, color, and freedom from defects
Participants will have the opportunity to tour a working mushroom yard where you can see the principles of production in action. We will discuss the best management practices for outdoor cultivation of wood-decomposing mushrooms. This form of agriculture is perfect for anyone wanting to incorporate their woodlands into applied agroforestry.
Educators will discuss the finances behind natural log production, and regulations on value-added products. CSFP mushroom specialist Connor Youngerman will speak on regulations for processing mushrooms into value-added products and share useful mushroom research results from across the industry.
We will leave plenty of time for questions. Inoculated mushroom logs will be available to take home for the first 25 registrants (one log per household).
Contact: Connor Youngerman (czy2@cornell.edu) with any questions.
