Let's begin by demystifying the propagation of everyone's favourite trippy toadstool, magic mushrooms. They emerge from spores, not seeds as plants do, and under an ideal environment - moist and temperature stable - these spores sprout into a fungal network called 'mycelium'. Given the right conditions and time, this mycelium eventually ends up as the psychedelic mushrooms we all know and love. But there are different forms these spores take, each with its own storage needs, lifespan, and pros and cons, which we'll delve into now.
Spore prints
Spore prints are the first stop on our tour. Derived from the cap of a mature mushroom that’s left to release its spores, they're the physical representation of potential mycelium growth. Store these precious prints in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight to maintain viability. Correctly stored, they have a shelf life of several years, but the vitality decreases with time. Temperature-wise, they can take anything from freezing points to about 25-30 degrees Celsius. Durable and easy to store, their one major disadvantage is that they require careful handling to prevent contamination during the transition from print to mycelium.
Liquid cultures
Liquid cultures involve suspending the mushroom mycelium in a nutrient broth. To create this, a tiny piece of mycelium or spore is placed in the sterile liquid nutrient solution and allowed to grow. Stored under refrigeration, away from direct sunlight, they can last a good few months. They can endure temperatures from just above freezing to around 28 degrees Celsius. Not only do they speed up growth due to the already growing mycelium, but they also can be directly injected into the growth medium, saving time. On the downside, if contaminants are present when the culture is made, they will likely proliferate in the nutrient-rich solution.
Agar
Agar, the jelly-like substance made from seaweed, is used to germinate spores and develop mycelium. Store agar cultures in the fridge, ensuring they are well sealed. They can continue to grow for several months under these conditions. They thrive in a similar temperature range to spore prints and liquid cultures. The high nutrient content supports fast growth while the transparent medium makes it easier to notice any contamination. Its significant downside is the requirement of specialist equipment and sterile procedures to ensure successful cultures.
How to Choose Your Propagation Method
In summary, we have spore prints - robust, easy to store but need careful handling, liquid cultures - quick, easy to use but facing risk of contaminations, and finally agar - fast-growing, contamination-detecting but requiring specialized equipment and sterile conditions. Understanding the unique features, pros, and cons of each form allows for an informed decision, depending on your individual needs and surroundings. Happy cultivating, psychonauts!