Photo: frankenstoen · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Intermediate
How to Grow Shiitake
Lentinula edodes
Rich and savory, rewarding — a step up in patience.
Ideal growing conditions
- Temperature
- 55–70°F (13–21°C)
- Humidity
- 80–90%
- Fresh air (FAE)
- Good airflow
- Light
- Indirect
Timeline
Slower; block must 'brown' first.
When to harvest
When caps are 60–70% open.
Substrate
Supplemented hardwood (logs or sawdust blocks).
Flavor & cooking
Deep umami, smoky.
Grower notes
Often needs a cold-water soak / temp drop to trigger flushes.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature does Shiitake need?
Shiitake fruits best at 55–70°F (13–21°C), with relative humidity around 80–90% and good airflow fresh-air exchange.
How long does Shiitake take to grow?
Slower; block must 'brown' first. MycoIQ tracks each block and forecasts your harvest window as it goes.
When should I harvest Shiitake?
When caps are 60–70% open.
Is Shiitake good for beginners?
Shiitake is rated intermediate to grow. Often needs a cold-water soak / temp drop to trigger flushes.
Grow Shiitake with an AI coach
Show Myco a photo and it reads the stage, catches contamination early, and calls your harvest window. Free to start.
