How to Grow and Care for Magic Mushrooms? (Psilocybin Mushrooms) 

Psilocybin mushrooms are a wild edible mushroom. They have been used by humans for millennia to induce various effects, including hallucinations and euphoria, with some anthropologists suggesting that psilocybin may even predate human language. Despite the widespread use of these fungi in other cultures, their legality is murky in the United States

It is illegal to grow psychedelic mushrooms in most countries, but it is legal to use them recreationally. There are many different ways of growing magic mushrooms, and the easiest way is to buy them from a store or online.

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Have you ever heard of the amazing consequences of eating magic mushrooms? They may seem to be ordinary shrooms that you may discover in the wild (or purchase at the grocery store), but they aren’t.

Magic mushrooms contain special chemicals that have hallucinogenic properties. These psychedelic journeys, in the appropriate dosage, may be life-changing. They have the potential to become anyone’s favorite pastime.

However, you will have to pay a significant amount of money to experience all they have to offer. Magic mushrooms are usually rather costly.

However, if you don’t have the funds, there is another option. Learning how to produce magic mushrooms at home will allow you to take advantage of everything that these plants have to offer. And at a low price.

Growing, on the other hand, is a difficult task. As a result, we’ve gathered all of the information we can regarding these mushrooms (from how to grow them and care for them plus a lot more). Check it out and learn something new!

What Are Magic Mushrooms and How Do They Work?

If you don’t know what these mushrooms are, why would you attempt to cultivate them? So, first and foremost, let me give you a heads-up.

To begin with, keep in mind that mushrooms are just fungus. They vary from other lifeforms such as plants and animals, although they share DNA (or cellular structure).

The majority of mushrooms develop by absorbing nutrients from their surroundings (like plants). However, molecules from the earth, surfaces, and air are included (like plants).

Most mushrooms are now either non-toxic or poisonous. However, some of them create unique molecules that, in the correct concentrations, may be completely safe for humans while still providing psychedelic experiences.

Psilocybin mushrooms are a kind of fungus that contains a lot of different compounds. As you would expect, the chemical that causes these psychedelic effects is psilocybin (thus the “psy” in the name). This substance usually causes hallucinations, euphoria, and a variety of strange experiences.

The majority of these Magic Mushrooms originated in tropical regions such as South and Central America, as well as South and East Asia. Nowadays, you can get these mushrooms almost everywhere, including much of the United States, Canada, and Europe. However, they still favor natural tropical settings.

Magic Mushrooms Come in a Variety of Shapes and Sizes

Despite the fact that most magic mushrooms are similar and belong to the same species, it’s important to understand how they vary.  

Some of these mushrooms have a higher concentration of active ingredients than others. Similarly, some of them are less harmful and simpler to cultivate.

Without further ado, here are the many forms of psilocybin mushrooms to be aware of:

Golden Top or Original Magic Mushroom (Psilocybe cubensis)

The classic hallucinogenic Psilocybe cubensis is what everyone refers to as the Magic Mushroom. Due to its unusual look, it is also known as shrooms, cubes, and even gold caps.

It’s a simple mushroom to grow, as long as you keep it in a tropical atmosphere. They’re the most popular, though, since they’re the easiest to cultivate. They also make good topics for cultivating at home.

The “cubensis” component of its name originates from the fact that they were first discovered in Cuba in 1906.

Blue Meanies are a bunch of jerks who (Copelandia cyanescens)

While the psilocybe genus is the most well-known, the Copelandia genus also produces mushrooms. Blue Meanies and shrooms, for example, are common names for the “cyanescens” varieties. Gray with a brownish crown is the most common color.

Because it demands warmer settings than the ordinary “cubensis,” it is often simple to cultivate. Since a result, the “cyanescens” is one of the most popular, as it can be found in any subtropical location.

Psilocybin is also its major component. However, this one is at least twice as powerful as the original Magic Mushroom.

This one is mostly produced in the United States since it loves somewhat cooler climates. Unlike other mushrooms, this one prefers to grow on wood, particularly decomposing logs and trunks. It also prefers areas with high humidity (for example, wood near rivers, lakes, and ponds).

The name Blue Foot stems from the stem’s bottom portion, which has a little blue tone. The crown is brown to gold in color, with a gray or blue underside, similar to other magic mushrooms.

The majority of “psilocybe caerulipes” are more powerful than standard “cubensis.” As a result, they are more uncommon and generally more costly.

Mushroom with a Blue Ring (Psilocybe stuntzii)

The “psilocybe stuntzii” is a rare species that prefers the cooler climates of the West Coast and Canada. This one likes rotting wood and mulch as well. It may, however, grow in grassy settings such as lawns and gardens.

The name Blue Ringer or Blue Legs derives from the shroom’s peculiar behavior when touched. It changes its hue from blue to grey. However, it seems that there are additional mushroom species that are toxic.

This mushroom’s components are often identical to those of the “cubensis.”

Mushrooms with Flying Saucers (Psilocybe azurescens)

The “psilocybe azurescens,” which gets its name from the form of its cap, which resembles a UFO, is also known as the Blue Angel, Blue Runner, and Azzies. It thrives on sandy soils and rotting wood in any case, although it is much more difficult to cultivate than other species.

Nonetheless, it is the most powerful of the magical mushroom family. When compared to normal “cubensis,” it contains a much higher amount of psilocybin. Since a result, it is one of the most deadly, as it has the potential to cause paralysis.

Because it generates powerful visual and sensory experiences, it’s also one of the most sought-after and pricey. People who like micro-dosing prefer the “azurescens” over the traditional magic mushroom.

Caps of Liberty (Psilocybe semilanceata)

The Liberty Caps, sometimes known as Witch’s Hat owing to the form of the cap, is one of Europe’s few endemic mushrooms (third behind azurescens). It thrives on rich soils with plenty of vegetation, such as lawns and gardens. It does, however, grow on wood and mulch.

It may be found almost wherever in North America and Europe. As a result, it is the second most popular after the traditional “cubensis.”

Truffles of Magic (Psilocybe tampanensis)

The mushroom has a yellow-brown coloration that is similar to that of other species. This one, on the other hand, grows like grass (tons of stems close together).

Despite the fact that it is a fungus, the truffle gets its name from the way it is prepared. People make a “sclerotia,” or truffle, to become edible. This fungus is reported to have a little stronger impact than the “cubensis,” yet it still pales in comparison to the most powerful mushrooms.

The “tampanensis” may be found in tropical and subtropical climates. Because of this, it is simple to grow in a household atmosphere.

Pajaritos are a kind of pajarito (Psilocybe mexicana)

If you’ve ever heard of the ancient Aztecs utilizing psychedelics, you’ll be interested to learn that they were using “psilocybe Mexicana.” This species is native to Central and South America’s tropical and subtropical habitats, and it prefers damp, warm surroundings (meadows, moss, manure-rich soils).

It has a similar look to “psilocybe semilanceata,” but with a little woodier crown. This hat has a burned-like brown tone to it. Its potency is comparable to that of the “cubensis” species.

Caps with Waves (Psilocybe cyanescens)

The name Wavy Caps stems from the mushroom’s cap’s unusual look. It has a wavy appearance and a white-to-gray stem with a brown top.

This species favors woody soils, such as mulch. It may also grow wherever there is enough organic matter and adequate humidity. That is why it is regarded as one of the simplest to cultivate, owing to its widespread availability in the wild.

The “cyanescens” has a higher potency than the “cubensis,” but not as much as the “azurescens.” As a result, it’s one of the most popular types to cultivate at home.

What Are the Requirements for Magic Mushrooms?

Now that you have a better understanding of the many Psilocybin mushroom kinds accessible, it’s time to discover which ones they like. Despite the fact that various species have varied requirements, they may all thrive in comparable settings provided the right circumstances are met. Here’s what they’ll require:

Space & Pot

Mushrooms thrive in humid environments. It’s largely about ensuring that a pot or place can remain wet for a long time while evaluating it.

But, more significantly, there should be a location or container where the mushrooms may absorb the chemicals from decomposing organic matter.

As a result, a plastic container with holes in the top is your best bet. Somewhere where the area can be kept humidified and sterilized.

Soil & Fertilizer

Growing magic mushrooms does not need the use of any form of soil. However, some nutrients like as nitrogen, protein, and sugar are still required. They also need starch, lipids, and lignin to thrive.

In most cases, manure and straw compost are sufficient. Corn, moss, and sand are some of the choices (for some species).

Because most mushrooms thrive in woody habitats, sawdust and rotting mulch are excellent choices.

Lighting & Air

Mushrooms, unlike other plants, do not need sunlight to develop. They do, however, need indirect exposure to grow. This usually entails using a grow lamp or getting some sun exposure every day. This exposure, however, should never be directly on their caps (as it could cause damage).

They still need oxygen. That’s why having a container with holes in the top may be so useful. This air speeds up the composting process, which mushrooms like.

Water & Humidity

Mycelium is one of the factors that contribute to the growth of mushrooms. It’s a bacterial colony, to put it that way. It grows due to dampness, as you would expect. That’s why mushrooms need so much of it to grow.

This humidity, on the other hand, should come from sanitized water. The cleaner the water, the better chance the mushrooms have of thriving. Tap water, for example, contains pesticides and other substances that may prevent mycelium from growing.

Mycelium thrives in a humidified atmosphere with a humidity level of roughly 90%. You may do this by using a propagator or a sprayer to propagate the water. As long as the mycelium is moist, mushrooms should emerge sooner rather than later.

Temperature & Environment

Mushrooms like chilly to warm settings, as well as a damp climate. Temperatures between 69 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit are common. Mushrooms will develop more slowly in colder temperatures. Higher temperatures may even hinder the formation of mycelium.

We propose keeping them in a basement or similar enclosed location to guarantee this kind of habitat. This would keep the humidity and temperature under control.

Hygiene

Despite the fact that mushrooms are fungus that develop from decomposed organic matter, they nonetheless need clean conditions to thrive. In reality, mushrooms will not grow in any environment polluted by germs or chemicals. It may even kill them in certain situations.

That’s why you should always use gloves, a facemask, and perhaps even a lab coat while handling magic mushrooms. This should provide a sanitary environment.

How to Grow Magic Mushrooms in 9 Easy Steps

You may now discover how to produce magic mushrooms now that you know the fundamentals. This lengthy and tedious procedure is broken down into nine phases below:

1. Select a Spot That Isn’t Filthy.

Begin by deciding on a location in your home where you will be able to work with the mushrooms. As previously indicated, this location should be as sanitary as feasible. It should be devoid of germs and contaminants that might harm mushrooms during their growth and development.

Once you’ve secured the space, be sure to collect and clean all of the required tools for the work, including jars or containers, syringes, gloves, and even facemasks. Everything has to be spotless.

2. Gather the Supplies

After deciding on a location for your work, you’ll need to bring a jar (or many) and a container. The mycelium will be prepared in the jar. The mycelium will be placed in the container (which should be at least three times the size of the jars) after the mushrooms are ready to sprout.

The spores (from the species you want), vermiculite or peat moss, and mulch or rice are the other items you’ll need. Mycelium will develop in the presence of minerals and food. They must be nutrient-dense.

3. Make a Mycelium Cake.

To make the mycelium cake, evenly distribute the ingredients in the sterilized jar. This jar should include the vermiculite or moss, as well as a sterilized food to aid in the development of nutrients.

The materials must be pressed together firmly. This guarantees that the mushroom spores can properly absorb nutrients in the long run.

4. Inoculate the Cake with the Inoculant

You may now distribute the pores on the cake in its raw form. It’s as simple as it sounds. Simply use a lighter to warm the syringe needle and pour around one cc of the pores into the jar.

The liquid spores should be visible as they descend through the materials. If you have numerous jars, sterilize the needle of the syringe before pouring the spores into each one.

5. Give it Time to Grow

You may now let the mycelium cakes to develop on their own. Place the cakes in a dark, cool location, ideally between 69 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It may also be doable if it were a little warmer (between 80 and 85 degrees).

The time it takes for mycelium to grow should be between 5 and 7 days. The components will begin to clump together and produce a white substance. This is the beginning of the mycelium’s growth.

The jar should be fully white after 15 days or a little longer (overcrowding the vermiculite or peat moss). If that’s the case, the mycelium has colonized the jar and it’s time to let it go.

6. Get the Growing Area Ready

The huge container, which should ideally be made of plastic, should be disinfected fully. This will protect the mycelium, and hence the mushrooms, from any unwelcome germs. We suggest sanitizing with a spoonful of bleach and hot water.

Vermiculite or peat moss will also be used in this container. The materials should be sterilized in any case. Soaking them in boiling water with a little hydrogen peroxide is the best method to do so.

Allow the container and components to dry completely. Then pour the vermiculite or peat moss into the container and spread it out to make a bottom layer. This is where the mycelium will establish itself. It will serve as an excellent humidifier.

7. Let the Cake Go

You may now continue to release the cake into the sterilized container. It all comes down to letting the contents of the jar fall into the bigger container.

Wear your gloves and other protective clothing before touching the mycelium. This should keep unwelcome contaminants at bay. You may knock the jars from the bottom to avoid touching the mycelium (to release the materials). If it doesn’t work, handle it carefully by hand.

Small mushrooms may already be developing when the mycelium slides off the jar into the container. There’s no reason to be concerned if you don’t. Sooner or later, they will sprout.

Environment the jar with all of the mycelium cakes in the refrigerator or in a cool place (under 50 degrees) for 24 hours.

9. Allow them to develop

It’s now time to let them mature. The mushrooms might take anywhere from a week to two weeks to grow in the container. They will begin to expand at a rate of roughly half an inch every day after they debut. You’ll have mushrooms growing in a month.

During this procedure, spray them with a mixture of sanitized water and hydrogen peroxide. To maintain the humidity over 80%, it should be done twice a day.

Harvest the Mushrooms 10.

It’s okay to pick mushrooms after they’ve grown to be several inches long. To avoid contamination, you should once again use gloves (the mushrooms are still susceptible).

Pinch and twist the mushrooms away from the mycelium is advised. The mushrooms should fall off easily.

If you wish to reuse the mycelium cakes, you’ll need to do it carefully, using sterilized equipment and avoiding any contamination.

After you’ve gathered the mushrooms, dry them in a sterile location for at least 10 days. They’ll be ready to eat after that.

Magic Mushrooms: How to Take Care of Them

We didn’t go into depth about some of the caring recommendations since we had previously discussed some of it. Here’s a more in-depth list of guidelines to follow:

Keep Pets & Humans Away

Bacteria and germs are abundant in other humans and animals. Mycelium is very delicate while it is developing and generating mushrooms. It will most likely cease producing mushrooms if it becomes compromised. Keep other loud individuals and dogs away from it to prevent this.

Always maintain a clean environment.

It is recommended that you shower before touching the mycelium or mushrooms themselves. Then put on some protective gear like gloves, a facemask, and maybe even a coat.

Attempt to switch off fans and air conditioning units at the same time. You may also want to keep dust and even strong winds out of the area where you’re sitting. You may create less contamination if you are as clean as possible. As a result, the mushrooms will develop more quickly.

Use only sterile water.

It’s essential to spray the container and jars on a regular basis since they need to maintain at least 80% humidity. But you’ll simply need sterilized water for that. Before consuming the water, we suggest using an osmosis filter to remove any undesired bacteria and germs. Then you may safely spray it.

Let them be.

Constant handling is the single most detrimental factor to their development. In fact, even a little touch of their cap may stop them from growing. That is why it is critical to keep animals and people at bay. However, until the mushrooms or mycelium are harvested, you should avoid any contact with them.

Don’t Put Too Much Pressure On Them

This refers to both the use of a big container and the avoidance of stacking many mycelium cakes together. The amount of moisture and nutrients in the environment must be sufficient for the mushrooms to thrive. If numerous mycelium cakes are competing for these nutrients, they are unlikely to thrive.

When you let them to dry, the same thing occurs. Keep just a few stems together (3 or 4) and the rest in a separate container or area if you want them to dry securely after harvesting. They may otherwise accumulate too much moisture (rather than drying) and mold (making them unusable).

To avoid unfavorable effects, keep the mushrooms separated throughout the growth and drying processes.

Conclusion

You may be wondering if it’s worthwhile to attempt growing magic mushrooms after understanding how to do so. And in that scenario, we have no choice but to respond, OF COURSE!

While eating magic mushrooms might be harmful if you’re not cautious, the process of producing them is a lot of fun. Sure, it needs a great deal of effort and attention that other plants do not, but that is exactly why it is such a thrilling experience.

However, after the mushrooms have been collected and dried, you’ll understand why they need so much effort and time.

In any event, are you prepared to begin cultivating them? There isn’t any time to waste. Start today, and in a few weeks, you’ll have your own magical mushrooms. You will not be sorry!

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Growing and caring for magic mushrooms is a difficult process. The “growing psychedelic mushrooms books” are helpful in this regard.

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