How to Grow Lion's Mane Mushrooms
Climate & Fruiting Guide

Phase 1: Preparation & Incision

Pom Pom Blanc fruit bodies are heavy and dense.
They require a small, directed opening to form a solid sphere rather than a loose mess.

• Placement
  Place blocks on shelves with the filter patch facing up. Leave adequate space between blocks (15-20cm) as the “Pom Poms” grow outward significantly.
• The “Slit” Method
  Do not open the top. Instead, cut 1 or 2 horizontal slits (approx. 3-5 cm long) on the side of the bag.
• Air Exclusion:
  Press the plastic bag flat against the substrate around the slit. This ensures the mushroom only forms outside the bag, preventing trapped “abort” pins under the plastic.

Phase 2: Primordia Formation (Pink Stage)

Do not be alarmed by colour changes in this early phase, the pins start to grow and get a light pink coloring.

• Appearance
  The initial mycelium emerging from the slit often looks pink or light orange.
  This is normal and healthy for Hericium. It indicates vigorous growth.
  As the fruit body matures, it will turn pure white.
• Humidity
  Keep RH at 95%.
  The young tissue is extremely delicate and will dry out instantly in low humidity.
  Air temperature: 17-19°C.

Phase 3: Development (The “Teeth” Phase)

As the white sphere expands, the signature spines (teeth) begin to elongate.

• Watering Protocol
  Never spray water directly on the fruit body.
  If water gets trapped in the fine teeth, it encourages bacterial growth and creates yellow/brown spots.
  Solution: Maintain humidity via room foggers or misting the floors/walls only.
• CO2 Sensitivity
  If the fruit body looks loose, branchy, or like a coral reef, the CO2 is too high.
  Increase fresh air immediately to ensure a tight, snowball-like structure.

Phase 4: Harvest

Harvest timing is a balance between size and texture.

• When to Harvest
  The “Pom Pom” is ready when the spines (teeth) are distinct and approximately 0.5 – 1.0 cm long.
  – Too Early: Smooth surface, no teeth defined.
  – Too Late: Teeth become very long/shaggy, and the top of the mushroom starts to yellow or turn soft.
• Technique
  Twist the ball gently from the base or cut flush with the bag surface using a sterile knife.
• Handling
  Handle with extreme care. The spines bruise easily.
  Place them directly into their final packaging, if possible, to avoid double-handling.

Disclaimer
These instructions are general guidelines for CNC substrates.
Optimal parameters may drastically vary depending on your specific growing facility design and environment.