Techniques for Spore Germination

When first produced, spores are moist, inflated cells with a relatively high rate of germination. As time passes, they dry, collapse at their centers and can not easily germinate. The probability of germinating dehydrated spores increases by soaking them in sterilized water. For 30 minutes at 15 psi, sterilize an eye dropper or similar device (syringe or pipette) and a water filled test tube or 

25-250 ml. Erlenmeyer flask stopped with cotton and covered with aluminum foil. Carefully touch spores onto a scalpel and Insert Into sterile water. Tightly seal and let stand for 6-12 hours. After this period draw up several milliters of this spore solution with the eye dropper, syringe or pipette and Inoculate several plates with one or two drops. Keep In mind that If the original spore print was taken under unsanitary conditions, this technique just as likely favors contaminant spores as the spores of mushrooms. 

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