How to grow Lion's Mane at home?

The Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), also known as the Lion's Mane, is one of the most valuable and sought-after mushrooms in the world. It is known not only for its unique appearance, but also for its potential benefits for brain function and the nervous system. If you want to grow this miraculous mushroom at home, this article will help you do it step by step!

Why grow hedgehog thorn?

Raising hedgehogs at home offers several benefits:

Natural brain stimulant – contains compounds that promote nerve growth factor (NGF), which helps improve memory and cognitive function.
Immune booster – contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
A great culinary delight – with its tenderness and flavor, it resembles seafood, such as lobster.
An interesting growing experience – unlike other mushrooms, growing porcini mushrooms is unique and visually impressive.

What is needed for cultivation?

To successfully grow hedgehog sedge at home, you will need:

Sterilized substrate – the most popular are wood chips, sawdust, or grain substrate.
Mycelium – purchase high-quality hedgehog mycelium.
A grow bag with a filtering air exchange opening – this will ensure a sterile environment and good air circulation.
Humidity source – water spray or humidity chamber to ensure high air humidity.

How to grow a hedgehog step by step?

1. Prepare the substrate and inoculate with mycelium

Fill a sterile bag with the substrate and mix in the mycelium. Make sure everything is well mixed so that the mycelium can evenly colonize the substrate.

2. Incubation

Place the bag in a dark, warm place (around 20-24°C) and allow the mycelium to spread. This process can take 2-4 weeks. When the substrate turns white and covered with mycelium, it is ready for the next step.

3. Transfer to growing medium

Once the mycelium has fully colonized the substrate, move it to a humid and well-ventilated area. The ideal temperature for growth is 18–22°C , and high humidity (85–95%) is required.

4. Formation of the first mushrooms

After a few days, small “fluff balls” will appear on the surface of the substrate – these are the first fruiting bodies of the hedgehog maggots. Spray the substrate with water regularly to maintain humidity.

5. Harvest and enjoy!

When the mushrooms reach a diameter of 8–15 cm and turn a pale white or slightly yellowish color, they are ready to be harvested. Carefully cut them off at the base and use them fresh or for drying.

How to use hedgehog hair?

The uses of hedgehog spines are diverse:

Add to stews and soups – it has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Fry in butter or coconut oil - you will get a soft and crispy crust.
Make a tincture or tea – promotes nervous system health and brain function.
Used in powder form – can be added to smoothies or in capsules as a dietary supplement.

In conclusion

Growing Lion's Mane mushrooms at home is not only a great way to get fresh and valuable mushrooms, but also an exciting and satisfying process. Try this method and enjoy the benefits of Lion's Mane mushrooms, both in the kitchen and for improving your health!