Spawn Run

Once colonization is complete, the substrate should be cased, or if casing is not used, it should be switched to a fruiting mode. If spawn running is continued beyond this point, valuable nutrients that could be utilized for production of fruitbodies will be consumed by further vegetative growth. If for some reason the cropping cycle must be delayed, the substrate should be cooled until a more opportune time. 

120 Psilocybe semilanceata mycelium running through pasteurized wheat 

If the substrate has been filled into shelves, the spawn is broadcast overthe surface and mixed in with a pitchfork or by hand. With trays, a similar method can be used, or alternatively, the substrate can be dumped out on a clean surface, mixed with spawn and then replaced in the trays. Substrates from a bulk room are removed, mixed with spawn and then placed into the chosen container. 

It is common procedure to level and compress the substrate to avoid dehydration caused by excessive air penetration. The degree of compression depends upon substrate structure. Long, airy materials can be compacted more than short, dense ones. Commercial tray growers compact the compost into the trays with a hydraulic press so that the compost surface resembles a table top. This enables the application of an even casing layer. 

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Sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus males captured during spawning run, single acute exposure ... 

Reduced spawn running period—Oil supplemented composts show increased mycelial activity and therefore higher temperatures during the spawn running period. As a result the colonization period is shortened by three to five days. 

CHAPTER VII SPAWNING AND SPAWN RUNNING IN BULK SUBSTRATES... 

The inoculation of compost or bulk substrates is called spawning. The colonization of these substrates by the mushroom mycelium is known as spawn running. At spawning and during spawn running there are several factors that must be considered if yields are to be maximized. These factors are ... 

Fresh Air Exchanges Stacks in open air sufficient. (Recent innovations show that logs stacked in a vertical configuration and covered with straw and plastic to maintain even temperatures result in faster spawn running in an outdoor environment. Within a controlled greenhouse, the logs need not be covered. The contact between the log surfaces should be minimized to prevent competitor molds and lichens from forming). pH Optima 5-6. 

Spawn Running colonization of compost and bulk substrates. 

Molds present during spawn run. Improper Phase 1 or Phase 11. Review composting section. Check contamination section for identification and factors predisposing to mold growth. 

Inky Caps (Coprinus sp.) occur during spawn run. Residual ammonia in compost. Prolong Phase II conditioning until litmus paper test shows no change. 

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