Reishi Mushroom Farm

Reishi’s are known as ‘lingzhi’ or ‘tree of life’ mushroom in China. In Vietnam they are ‘linh chi’ meaning ‘supernatural mushroom’ and in Japan ‘mannentake’ means ’10,000 year mushroom of immortality’. With its unusual antler, conk or kidney shaped form, the reishi is often featured in Far East art. Images can actually be drawn on the white underside of the conk form. The reishi is a slow-growing mushroom. It will be 2-3 months before you have mature mushrooms ready to harvest. Early reishis appear as small, white bumps that turn a golden brown. If airflow is restricted, ‘antlers’ will form. With sufficient ventilation, ‘conk’ shapes will form. They are ready to harvest when you see a light brown dusting on them. This is spore formation and indicates mature mushrooms. You can allow them to grow larger if you prefer. This farm will produce only 1 flush (crop) of mushrooms however, you can bury the spent block in your outdoor garden to try growing. This mushroom is usually used in dried form, commonly crumbled or powdered and steeped in teas. It has a strong, pleasant taste.