Spore Syringes are a common way to house spores from all mushroom strains. One syringe contains millions of mushroom spores, which float in a sterilized solution. A spore syringe can be used in a few simple steps.
The inoculation and cultivation of mushrooms is performed using a mushroom-spore syringe. No matter what mushroom strain you choose, you can use a spore needle to cultivate them.
Preparing the Spore Syringe
It is important to create a clean environment. Before starting the preparation of the mushroom spore syringe, disinfect your hands.
Spore syringes come usually ready-to-use. It’s best to keep it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours before you bring it out at room temperature.
A spore-syringe kit usually contains:
1x sterilized needle
1x special mushroom-spore solution in a 20ml Syringe
4x Alco preps
Liquid spore syringe set
The Luer lock is the cap of the sealed Syringe. Here’s how to use it.
The cap is still on and you can pick up the spore needle syringe.
It should be held with the Luerlock pointed up.
Then turn the syringe clockwise with your hands to loosen the lock.
Attach the needle to the mushroom-spore syringe by removing it from the sterilized package.
Give the spore syringe a quick shake for a few moments.
It is now ready for inoculation on a (sterile), substrate.
How to Inoculate Substrate Using Your Spores Syringe
Different substrates are needed for each strain of medicinal, edible or psilocybe mushroom.
For colonization of 1.05 quarts or 1 liter of substrate, it will take 3 milliliters (or less) of the spore solution. One syringe holds 20 mls of mushroom spore mixture. It is sufficient to inoculate 6-7 liters. You can drop a few milliliters into each corner of the substrate to set it up.
On the site where the mushroom ape spores have been dropped, you will notice white mycelium patches growing over time. When the entire substrate is white, then the mycelium has been fully colonized.
The bag can be cut to reveal the location where the mushrooms will grow. This will begin the flowering process.
How can you store your mushroomspore syringe safely?
You can keep the spore-syringe in the refrigerator at temperatures between 2°C and 8°C (Celsius), 35°F to 46° F (Fahrenheit). You should always reattach your Luer lock to the syringe after each use. The Syringe can still be used for 12 more months.
Note:
Do not use the mushroomspore syringe for liquid culture. You can make liquid culture with the mushroom spores by using the spore vial.
What is the shelf-life of Liquid Spore Cultures?
Mushroom spores may last up to a decade. If you want to store them long-term, ensure that you keep them in the refrigerator. To prevent moisture, you should seal your spore prints before storing them in the fridge. They will last longer if they are protected from heat and humidity. Spore vials or prints can last over a decade.
The spore-syringes are not as durable as the water that begins to form bacteria. The ideal time frame is between 8-12 months. If the spore does not grow as expected, it can be rehydrated in sterile water for 24 hours. You can soak spores that are older than six months in sterile waters for approximately 24 hours before they germinate. You should use liquid culture syringes no later than three months from the date of purchase. They should be kept in your refrigerator
