We know the feeling. You’ve unpacked your new mushroom kit, you’ve found the perfect spot on the kitchen counter, and you’re checking it every morning with a cup of coffee in hand... but nothing is happening.
First off: Don’t panic.
At Kai Kai Farm, we like to say that growing mushrooms is part science, part art, and a whole lot of patience. Sometimes, the mycelium (that’s the white, root-like network) just needs a little nudge to wake up.
If your Oyster or Lion’s Mane kit seems to be hitting the snooze button, it’s usually down to one of these five common reasons. Let’s get your grow back on track!
1. It’s Too Thirsty (Lack of Humidity)
Mushrooms are roughly 90% water. If the air around your kit is as dry as the Australian outback, those little baby mushrooms (pins) will dry out and abort before they even get started.
The Fix:
Mist More Often: If your kit sits in an open room, spray it at least 2–3 times a day. Until you see mushrooms forming or “pinnning” just a couple sprays 2-3 times a day is enough. You want to keep the area humid but not dripping with moisture. Lifting the plastic flaps and spraying a little bit underneath can help as well.
The Humidity Tent: If you have a plastic bag then make a humidity tent by punching a few holes in it and then use it by placing over the mushroom kit! Ensure that no mushrooms touch the plastic. Spray the inside of the bag rather than the mushrooms directly. This captures the moisture and creates a mini-rainforest environment that mushrooms love.
2. It’s Suffocating (Lack of Fresh Air)
While mushrooms love humidity, they also need to breathe. As they grow, they take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, just like us. If CO2 builds up too much, your mushrooms might grow long, spindly stems with tiny caps—or they might not grow at all.
The Fix:
Air Exchange: If you are using a humidity tent, make sure you lift it up or "fan" fresh air into it every time you mist.
Check the Cut: Ensure you’ve made the correct cut on the plastic bag as per the instructions. The mycelium needs that exposure to oxygen to know it's time to fruit.
3. The Temperature is "Just Not Right"
Mushrooms are a bit like Goldilocks—they don’t like it too hot, and they don’t like it too cold.
Too Cold: The mycelium will go dormant and "sleep."
Too Hot: Bacteria can start to grow, or the block dries out too fast.
The Fix: Most of our gourmet varieties (like Oysters and Lion's Mane) thrive in typical room temperatures—between 18°C and 24°C. Avoid placing your kit in direct sunlight (which cooks the bag) or directly in front of an air conditioner. Indirect, natural light is the sweet spot.
4. Patience (The "Pinning" Stage)
Sometimes, nothing is wrong at all—it just hasn't been long enough! Nature works on its own schedule. Depending on the variety and the temperature, it can sometimes take up to two weeks after opening the kit to see the first "pins" (baby mushrooms).
The Fix: Look closely at the cut you made in the bag. Do you see tiny little bumps or dense white knots forming? That’s called primordia. It means the magic is happening! Keep misting and hold tight; you’ll have mushrooms soon.
5. The "White Fuzz" vs. Mold
New growers often get scared when they see fuzzy white stuff growing on the block.
White Fuzz: This is usually just healthy mycelium reaching out for air. It’s good!
Green or Black Patches: This is mold (contamination).
The Fix: If it’s white, keep going! If you see distinct green or black mold patches taking over the block, it might be time to retire that kit to the compost bin. However, a tiny spot of green can sometimes be carefully scooped out with a clean spoon to save the rest of the block.
Quick FAQ (What is my mushroom doing?)
Q: There is yellow liquid in the bag. Is it sick? A: Nope! That is called "mycelium metabolites" (or mushroom pee). It usually means the mushroom is fighting off bacteria or is just fully colonized. It’s natural and safe.
Q: My mushrooms look dry and shriveled. A: They need more humidity! Mist the inside of your humidity tent, not just the mushrooms directly.
Still Stumped? Let’s Chat.
We want you to succeed. There is nothing quite like the taste of mushrooms you’ve grown yourself. If you’ve tried the tips above and your kit is still being stubborn, reach out to us. We’re happy to help you troubleshoot.
Get in touch with Kai Kai Farm:
Phone: 0480 540 857 Email: [email protected]
Visit Us: 654 Main Western Road Tamborine Mountain, QLD
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu: 9AM - 4PM Fri: By Appointment
Happy Growing!
