Mushroom Plugs & Dowels FAQs
Do mushroom plugs work?
Yes, they absolutely do. Mushroom plugs are little wooden dowels already colonised with mycelium. You simply tap them into fresh hardwood logs, seal them, and they slowly colonise the log until mushrooms appear. It’s a tried-and-true method that mimics how mushrooms grow in the wild.
How long do mushroom spawn plugs last?
Unopened and stored in the fridge, they can last for over a year! For the best results, use them as soon as possible after purchase. This gives the mycelium the best chance to colonise your logs successfully.
When to use mushroom plugs?
Mushroom plugs are best used when you want to grow mushrooms outdoors on hardwood logs or stumps. They’re ideal for long-term projects, producing seasonal harvests over several years. Common species grown this way include Shiitake, Oyster, and Lion's Mane.
Do you have to wax mushroom plugs?
Yes, sealing with wax is recommended. Once the plugs are inserted into the drilled holes, a thin layer of food-grade wax helps lock in moisture and protect the mycelium from contamination. This step improves colonisation and increases your chances of a healthy flush of mushrooms.