Are you interested in growing magic mushrooms? Do you want to learn more about the biological life cycle of these fascinating fungi? Then you’ve come to the right place at Smartific! In this article, we will take you through the different stages of the biological life cycle of magic mushrooms, as well as the methods for their cultivation. No matter whether you choose our mushroom spores or a handy grow kit, we have all the information you need to successfully grow mushrooms. So read on quickly!
Table of Contents
What are magic mushrooms?
Before we dive into the life cycle and cultivation, let’s get an idea of what magic mushrooms actually are. Mushrooms belong to the family of psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms. These mushrooms contain a powerful psychoactive substance called psilocybin, which is responsible for their hallucinogenic effects. Mushrooms have been used in spiritual rituals for centuries and are becoming increasingly popular among people interested in their therapeutic properties[1] . Growing your own mushrooms allows you to have control over the quality and potency of the mushrooms you consume.
The biological life cycle of magic mushrooms
The biological life cycle of mushrooms begins with spores. Spores are similar to the seeds of plants and are the reproductive cells of the mushroom. When the spores land under the right conditions, they germinate and grow into fungal threads, also known as mycelium. Mycelium is the network of fine threads that spreads underground or inside organic material.
It feeds on nutrients in the substrate and eventually forms the fruiting bodies, which we know as mushrooms. When environmental conditions are favourable, the mycelium begins to produce fruiting bodies[2] . These fruiting bodies contain the substance psilocybin which is responsible for the psychedelic effects. The fruiting bodies emerge from the ground and are soon ready for consumption.
Using mushroom spores
If you are interested in growing magic mushrooms, you can use magic mushroom spores. These spore syringes are available in different varieties, coming from different kinds of mushrooms. They allow you to choose the kind of mushrooms you want to grow yourself. To use magic mushroom spores, you must first ‘inoculate’ them.
This means you place the spores in a nutrient medium, such as cereal grains or substrate. The mycelium will then develop from the spores and eventually produce mushrooms. With mushroom spores, you have the freedom to adjust the growing conditions to your preferences and circumstances[3] .
Go for a handy grow kit
If you are new to growing mushrooms and don’t have much experience, a handy grow kit might be the best choice for you. A grow kit contains everything you need to get started right away, including nutrient soil and mushroom spores. With a grow kit, you don’t have to worry about the process of inoculation, as this has already been done for you. A grow kit is ideal for beginners as it reduces the chance of mistakes and increases the chances of success.
You get a detailed manual with your grow kit, so you can learn step by step how to grow mushrooms. All you have to do is ensure the right conditions, such as temperature and humidity, and soon you can enjoy your own cultivated mushrooms.
Sources:
[1] https://attheu.utah.edu/facultystaff/psychoactive-psilocybins-evolution-in-magic-mushrooms/
[2] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312976050_The_Evolution_of_a_Mushroom’s_Lifecycle_The_Shit_the_Flies_the_Spores_the_Shrooms_the_Worms_and_the_Ants_Revised