Enchanted Spores: The Mystical DIY Guide to Cultivating Psilocybe Cubensis
Growing Psilocybe cubensis can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. While access to laboratory equipment such as an autoclave and incubator can be advantageous, this guide will provide alternative methods using homemade substitutes. Follow these step-by-step instructions to maximize your chances of success in cultivating Psilocybe cubensis.
Materials Needed:
Psilocybe cubensis mycelium (obtained from a local store or reputable source)
Agar plates (Potato dextrose agar (PDA) or Malt extract agar)
Petri plates
Pressure cooker or autoclave substitute
Rye seeds
Plastic screw-top jars
Vermiculite
Plastic containers with clear plastic lids
Small plastic tent or clear plastic covering
Humidifier
Heater with a fan
Drying equipment (e.g., mesh drying racks, desiccant packets)
Procedure:
1. Prepare Agar Plates:
Sterilize the agar plates in a pressure cooker or autoclave substitute at 121°C and 15 psi for 30 minutes.
Allow the agar to cool to approximately 50°C.
Aseptically pour the agar into petri plates and let them cool and solidify.
Store the plates in a plastic bag in a cool location. Check for contamination after 3-4 days.
2. Transfer Mycelium to Plates:
Aseptically transfer a small piece of Psilocybe cubensis mycelium containing agar to a few agar plates.
Incubate these plates at 30°C for one week.
Set aside two plates as stock cultures, storing them in the refrigerator at 4°C with plastic wrap and upside down to collect condensed water on the lid.
The remaining plate will be used to inoculate new plates with mycelium.
3. Prepare Rye or any grain Substrate:
Combine 130g of rye seeds with 100 mL of water in a plastic screw-top jar.
Optionally, add mineral supplements like CaCO3 to the water.
Autoclave the jars at 121°C and 15 psi for 1 hour.
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature with the lids partially unscrewed in a sterile area overnight.
Aseptically add two small pieces of mycelium containing agar (approximately 0.5 cm by 0.5 cm) to each jar.
Shake the jars to distribute the mycelium evenly.
Incubate the jars in the dark at 30°C for 2 weeks, shaking every 3-4 days.
4. Transfer to Plastic Containers:
After 2 weeks, the rye substrate should be fully colonized with white mycelium and emit a mushroomy smell.
Transfer five or six fully colonized jars into plastic containers with clear plastic lids.
Punch small air holes in the lids to allow air exchange.
Level off the mycelium-containing rye substrate to create a flat surface.
5. Case with Vermiculite or Coco Coir with Gypsum:
Fully soak vermiculite in water and wring out the excess water.
Apply the vermiculite to the rye substrate to a level of about 1-2 inches and level it out.
Add 2 tablespoon of gypsum
6. Incubation and Humidity:
Place the trays of cased substrate in a humid environment, such as a plastic tent covered with clear plastic.
Incubate in the dark at 24-30°C for 3-5 days.
Mist the trays gently with water to maintain moisture but avoid overwatering.
Check for water collecting on the lids as an indication of proper humidity. No additional humidification is needed during this stage.
7. Sun Exposure and Humidity Control:
Once white mycelium starts poking up through the vermiculite casing, lower the temperature to 20-24°C.
Expose the trays to regular bursts of sunlight by opening the curtains.
Discontinue misting and ensure high humidity inside the tent using a humidifier. Avoid over-humidification.
Maintain these conditions for approximately 2 weeks.
Small mushrooms will begin to appear within a week and continue growing throughout the remaining week.
8. Harvesting and Drying:
Keep humidifying as the mushrooms grow, being cautious not to overdo it.
Carefully pick the mushrooms once the veils have broken.
Dry the mushrooms immediately using a heater with a fan. Blow warm, dry air over the mushrooms for about 2 days.
Once dry, the mushrooms can be bagged and stored for future use.
9. Subsequent Flushes and Outdoor Cultivation:
Expect 2-3 flushes from the initial substrate.
Afterward, dispose of the spent substrate in the garden.
In late summer, additional mushrooms may grow in the garden from the leftover substrate, which tend to be larger and more potent.
Remember to prioritize sterile conditions and aseptic techniques throughout the process to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure successful cultivation. Happy growing!
Disclaimer:
The following information provided in this guide is intended for educational purposes only. It is important to note that the cultivation, possession, and consumption of Psilocybe cubensis or any other psychedelic substances may be illegal in your jurisdiction.
This guide does not endorse or encourage the cultivation, possession, or consumption of Psilocybe cubensis or any other controlled substances. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations in your area regarding the cultivation and use of such substances.
Furthermore, growing Psilocybe cubensis or any other fungi involves potential risks and hazards. The procedures outlined in this guide require careful attention to sterile techniques and specific environmental conditions. Any attempts to cultivate Psilocybe cubensis or handle related materials should be done at your own risk, with proper research, and under appropriate legal circumstances.
Always prioritize your safety and the legality of your actions. Consult local laws, seek professional advice, and exercise caution when dealing with any substances or activities that may have legal or health implications.
The author and publisher of this guide do not assume any liability for any actions or consequences resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided herein. It is your responsibility to use this information responsibly and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
