Crafting a CVG Substrate for Mushroom Cultivation

The Coir-Vermiculite-Gypsum (CVG) mixture is a cornerstone in the art of mushroom cultivation, celebrated for its remarkable ability to retain moisture and provide a nutrient-rich foundation. This guide delineates the process of creating a CVG substrate, integrating specific ingredients and measurements to yield optimal results.

Essential Ingredients and Their Costs

Given the competitive pricing on Amazon, and considering the benefits of Prime membership, such as inclusive shipping, the following are the costs for the required materials:

• Organic Coconut Coir Brick (650 Gram): $9.99
• Ultra-Fine Food Grade Gypsum for Mushroom Substrates (2 cups): $13.95
• Professional Grade 8QT Vermiculite: $16.29
• .0 Gallon Pail with Plastic Handle, White: $15.00 (use a 5 gallon you will be happier)

Batch Cost Aprox: $25.00 not counting the reusable bucket. You can lower the cost by buying in in bulk but I do not suggest it if this is your first time.

Required Equipment

• A large mixing container or a 2-gallon bucket
• Measuring cups 1 cup is needed, a 4 cup version is also useful for the water and vermiculite
• A boiling pot
• Silicone Gloves (optional)

Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparing the Coco Coir Mixture

• Begin by placing the 650g coco coir brick in the 2-gallon bucket.
• Integrate 8 cups of vermiculite to ensure a uniform mixture.
• Incorporate 1 cup of gypsum (utilizing half of your purchase).
• Boil 15 cups of water and cautiously pour over the ingredients in the bucket.

2. Hydration Process

• CAUTION: HIGH TEMPERATURE ALERT - Verify the temperature before handling. Avoid direct contact if the mixture is excessively hot.
• Permit the mixture to hydrate and expand over a minimum duration of 6 hours, followed by comprehensive mixing.
• Mix with your hands, using silicone or simple dish washing gloves maybe helpful as the mixture might be sticky.

3. Assessing Field Capacity for Optimal Substrate Moisture

Ensuring an ideal moisture level within your substrate is paramount for successful mushroom cultivation. Field capacity represents this optimal moisture state. Below are the methodologies to ascertain that your substrate has attained field capacity.

Techniques to Validate Field Capacity

I did have to add 1 more cup of water as a FYI

Squeeze Test

• Gently compress a handful of the mixed substrate.
• The emergence of a few water droplets signifies attainment of field capacity.
• Excess water indicates over-saturation – necessitating additional dry components.
• A lack of moisture, evidenced by crumbling, calls for gradual water addition.

Visual and Textural Assessment

• The substrate should exhibit a moist appearance with a subtle shine, avoiding any signs of saturation.
• It should maintain cohesion upon pressure but not exhibit a soggy texture.

Heft Evaluation

• For the seasoned cultivator, the weight of the container can be indicative of field capacity.
• A substrate at field capacity will be notably heavier compared to its dry state but should not feel waterlogged.

Uniformity in Moisture Distribution

• Ensure even moisture throughout the mixture.
• Thorough mixing is crucial, especially as the lower layers may retain more moisture.

Adjustments as Required

• In the event of the substrate not meeting field capacity, modify by adding either water or dry components, then reevaluate.
• Gradual water addition is preferred over rectifying an overly moist mixture.

4. Temperature Normalization

Allow the substrate to cool to ambient temperature prior to utilization.

5. Utilizing the CVG Mix for Mushroom Cultivation

Post-preparation and cooling of the CVG mix, the next phase involves inoculating the substrate with mushroom spawn. This critical step facilitates the successful cultivation of mushrooms. The ensuing instructions, coupled with advice on maintaining conducive environmental conditions, will optimize growth.

Conclusion

The creation of a CVG mix is a critical step in establishing a nurturing environment for mushroom cultivation. Attention to cleanliness is imperative to prevent contamination. Embark on this journey of mushroom cultivation with confidence and anticipation of a rewarding harvest.

This recipe produces enought to fill 4 to 6 of the 6 quart shoe boxes.

Shout outs

I want to throw a shout out to The Rookie Mycologist for the base recipe used in this article. You can find him at https://www.youtube.com/@therookiemycologist