Inoculation Dowels / Dowel Spawn

What We Focus on When Producing Our Inoculated Dowels/Dowel Spawn:

Dowell spawn is a popular substrate for mushroom cultivation, especially for growing mushrooms on wooden logs. The quality of the dowel spawn is crucial for the success of your mushroom culture. Here are the key quality characteristics to look out for:

1. Sterility

• Freedom from Contamination: High-quality dowel spawn must be free from mould, bacteria, and other microorganisms. Thorough sterilisation during production is essential.
• Smell: A fresh, earthy smell without any signs of rotting or unpleasant odours indicates that the dowel spawn is clean and free from contamination.

2. Mycelium Development

• Dense Mycelial Coating: The mycelium should fully and evenly cover the dowel. A dense, white mycelial coating is a sign of healthy and strong mycelium.
• Vigor: High-quality dowel spawn shows rapid and vigorous mycelium development, which is reflected in quick colonisation of the substrate.

3. Quality of Dowels

• Material: The dowels should be made from high-quality hardwood, free from impurities, insect infestations, and mould.
• Shape and Size: The dowels should be uniformly sized and smooth to ensure easy handling and even mycelium growth.
• Moisture Content: The dowels must have the correct moisture content – neither too dry nor too wet – to promote mycelium growth.

4. Packaging

• Sterile Packaging: The dowel spawn should be packed in sterile, airtight bags or containers to prevent contamination.
• Filter Ventilation: Containers with filters that allow ventilation are ideal, as they promote gas exchange without compromising sterility.

5. Homogeneity

• Even Mycelium Distribution: The mycelium should be evenly distributed across all dowels, with no dowels left uncolonised.
• Consistency: Each batch of dowel spawn should be consistent in quality and mycelium growth to ensure reproducible results.

6. Freshness

• Recency: Fresh dowel spawn is most effective. Pay attention to the production date and use the spawn within a reasonable time frame to ensure optimal performance.

7. Germination Ability

• High Germination Rate: High-quality dowel spawn shows a high germination rate and rapid colonisation of the wood substrate, shortening the time to harvest.

8. Yield Potential

• High Yield: Quality dowel spawn should allow for a high yield, with a good number of fruiting bodies and a long harvesting period.

High-quality dowel spawn is the foundation for healthy, vigorous mushrooms and a rich harvest.