← Back to Species
beginnergourmet
Pearl/Grey Oyster
Pleurotus ostreatus
The most forgiving mushroom for beginners. Fast colonization, tolerates temperature swings, and produces abundant flushes.
Growing Timeline
Total time from inoculation to harvest: approximately 39 days
Growth Phases
1
Inoculation
Typically 1-1 days
Temp: 21-24°C
Humidity: 60-70%
Tasks
- Prepare substrate
- Inoculate with spawn
- Seal container
Tips
- Work in still air or flow hood
- Flame sterilize tools between bags
2
Colonization
Typically 14-21 days
Temp: 21-24°C
Humidity: 60-70%
Tasks
- Store in dark location
- Check for contamination daily
- Wait for full colonization
Tips
- No peeking - minimize disturbance
- White fuzzy growth is good, colors are bad
3
Fruiting
Typically 7-14 days
Temp: 13-18°C
Humidity: 80-95%
Tasks
- Cut X in bag or open container
- Mist 2-3x daily
- Provide fresh air exchange
- Provide indirect light
Tips
- Mist the walls, not directly on pins
- Leggy stems = needs more FAE
4
Harvest
Typically 1-3 days
Temp: 13-18°C
Humidity: 80-95%
Tasks
- Harvest when caps flatten
- Twist and pull entire cluster
- Rest substrate for next flush
Tips
- Harvest before spores drop
- Expect 2-4 flushes per block
Common Issues
- Leggy stems (low FAE)
- Yellow caps (too much light)
- Slow colonization (too cold)
Growing Tips
- Great for beginners - very forgiving
- Can fruit at room temperature
- Masters key to all oyster varieties