Growing your own mushrooms? It might sound complicated, but thanks to GrowKits, it's surprisingly easy. Whether you're curious about the growing process, want to start your own cultivation project, or are simply fascinated by the world of fungi, this guide tells you everything you need to know. From mycelium to harvest, step by step.

What is a GrowKit?

A GrowKit is a ready-made cultivation kit that allows you to grow mushrooms at home. Each kit contains a substrate already colonized with mycelium—the underlying network from which mushrooms develop. All you have to do is create the right conditions. No green thumb? No problem.

How does a mushroom actually grow?

A mushroom's life begins beneath the surface, in the invisible network of mycelium. This vegetative part of the fungus grows through the substrate and absorbs nutrients. When conditions are perfect—think moisture, oxygen, and temperature—the mycelium forms small white nodules called primordia or pinheads. These are the first signs of a fruiting body: the mushroom.

After that, things move quickly. Within a few days, the pinheads grow into mature mushrooms, ready to be harvested. As soon as the membranes beneath the cap begin to peel, it's time to harvest.

What is mycelium (and why is it so important)?

Mycelium is the underground "brain" of the mushroom. It consists of thin fungal threads (hyphae) that spread like a network through the substrate. Think of mycelium as the roots of a plant, but more intelligent: it actively searches for nutrients, regenerates itself, and even communicates with its environment.

When growing mushrooms, healthy, white mycelium is the sign that your kit is properly prepared. If it's discolored or spotty, something might be wrong, such as contamination or excessive moisture. More on that later.

How to use a GrowKit? Step by step

1. Clean : Wash your hands and wipe the outside of the GrowKit with a dry cloth.
2. Hydrate : Pour the water out of the kit, fill with lukewarm water (20°C), replace the lid and let it soak for 5 minutes.
3. Drain : Pour away the water and let the kit drain for 10 seconds.
4. In the bag : Place the kit in the included grow bag and add 200–250 ml of lukewarm water to the bag. Close with the paperclips.
5. Patience : Place the bag in a bright place (no sunlight), at a temperature of 20–25 °C. Do not open until the pinheads are visible.
6. Airing and spraying : When the first pinheads appear, air daily and spray lightly with a plant sprayer.
7. Harvesting : Harvest just before the membrane under the cap loosens. Carefully twist the mushroom loose.
8. Repeat Flush : Repeat steps 4 through 7 for the next harvest.

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

• Too much water : Don't soak the kit for longer than 1 hour. Too much moisture suffocates the mycelium.
• Wrong place : Do not place your kit in direct sunlight or on a heater.
• Opening too early : The grow bag should remain closed until the first pinheads are visible.
• Wrong temperature : Below 20°C? Use a heating mat to maintain a stable climate.
• Ignore contamination : Yellow, green, or black spots indicate contamination. In this case, discard the kit.

Tip: Speed up the growth process with a heating mat

Do you have a cool room or want extra temperature control? Then the Novus Fumus Heating Mat Black is a smart addition. This mat keeps your Grow Kit at a stable temperature, making the growth process faster and more consistent.

View heating mat

Frequently Asked Questions about GrowKits

Want to buy a GrowKit?

Ready to start growing your own? Then visit our mushroom shop and discover our full range of grow kits, accessories, and handy tools. Or choose our most popular kit right away:

McSmart Golden Teacher Grow Kit

An ideal choice for both beginners and experienced growers, this kit contains everything you need to grow mushrooms easily and successfully.

Check out this GrowKit