What Is Overlay in Mushroom Growing (And How to Fix It Fast)
By Michael Hawthorne
Learn what overlay is in mushroom growing, why it happens, and how to fix thick, matted mycelium so your monotub can start pinning again.
Growing 101 & More
See what's new & learn all about mushrooms and growing!
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Mushroom Contamination Identification & Response Playbook
By Michael Hawthorne
Learn how to identify mushroom contamination fast—trich, bacteria, cobweb, and bruising—with a step-by-step response framework, photo comparisons, and prevention tips.
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2026 OFFICIAL Spore Syringe Buying Guide: Choosing a Trusted Vendor, Avoid Contamination, Start Clean!
By Michael Hawthorne
Before you buy spores, read this. Our 2026 guide breaks down trusted vendors, common contamination issues, real photo examples, and how to test syringes on agar or Quick Culture Jars...
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Mushroom Growing Terminology (Glossary)
By Michael Hawthorne
For all you first time growers, we put this glossary together to help understand some of the words and mushroom slang that is used in the growing world. Enjoy! Abort:...
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The Ultimate Guide to Mushroom Casing Soil
By Michael Hawthorne
There are many different methods for growing mushrooms and just as many types of substrates and soils to choose from. Here’s a handy guide to casing soil.
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Storing Mycelium for 12 months or longer using Agar Slants
By Michael Hawthorne
Using AGAR Slants for long term mycelium storage You may have heard or read about using agar slants in many online communities or books. It has become a popular tool...
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Mushroom Anatomy: Understanding All the Parts of a Mushroom
By Michael Hawthorne
If you want to cultivate mushrooms, it’ll be wise for you to understand the various parts that comprise it. Learn more about what makes up a mushroom here.
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How Long Does It Take for Spawn Bags To Colonize?
By Michael Hawthorne
Are you a beginning cultivator who’s working to learn more about spawn bag colonization? You’ve come to the right place to learn more about spawn bags!
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Should you Dunk a Bulk Monotub Grow?
By Midwest Grow Kits Management
Thinking about dunking your bulk grow like a PF cake? It can be done—but it’s usually not worth the risk. Here’s why experienced growers rarely recommend it.
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The Difference Between Half-Pint and Grain Jars
By Michael Hawthorne
What's the difference between the half-pint jars and grain jars that we offer? Let's be real- we have quite a few different substrate jars that we offer. But what is...
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Should You Sterilize or Pasteurize Casing Mix?
By Michael Hawthorne
Are you curious about whether you should sterilize or pasteurize your casing mix? This is important, so read here for more information about it.
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The Stages of the Mushroom Growth Process
By Michael Hawthorne
Learn how mushrooms grow from spore to harvest. This guide breaks down the full mushroom life cycle and explains how to grow successfully at home.
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A Deep Dive Into the Stages of the Mushroom Growth Process
By Michael Hawthorne
Mushrooms are neither plants nor animals. They’re fungi, which are a kingdom all their own. Since this is the case, it might be wise for a prospective mushroom cultivator to...
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