Take Home Log Inoculations Shiitake - Reserve a Log for Strawberry Moon Festival

Reserve your log, or logs, for many years of mushroom growth! We will walk you through step-by-step the cultivation process and care of your own shiitake grows!

Please arrive at our vendor booth anytime between 12-2pm to particapate in our workshop either day of the festival, June 9th or June 10th.  Ticket is valid for either day, but can only be used once. One ticket = One Log. You can arrive anytime within the two hour window to get hands on instruction. If you missed the time window for the workshop, stop by the vendor booth, we will have your log, with easy to follow take home instructions to do the workshop at home!

During the log inoculation workshop,participants learn the step-by-step process of inoculating logs with mushroom spawn, focusing on the cultivation of shiitake mushrooms, renowned for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits.

Throughout the workshop, attendees will gain hands-on experience in selecting and preparing logs, inoculating them with shiitake mushroom spawn, and properly caring for their mushroom logs to encourage healthy growth.

They'll also learn about the ideal environmental conditions for mushroom cultivation and how to troubleshoot common challenges that may arise.

By the end of the workshop, participants can expect to leave with a deeper understanding of fungal biology, practical skills in mushroom cultivation, and a sense of empowerment to continue their mushroom-growing journey at home.

Additionally, they'll be able to enjoy the many health benefits associated with shiitake mushrooms, such as immune system support, cardiovascular health, and potential anti-inflammatory properties, making this workshop not only educational but also a delicious investment in their well-being.

The lifespan of the long depends on the diameter and how well it’s cared for. Each log will be between 6-8 inches in diameter. The lifespan of the log producing is normally 1 year for every inch. So they can expect to keep their logs productive for 5-8 years

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) are not only renowned for their savory flavor in culinary dishes but also for their potential medicinal and nutritional benefits. Here's a brief overview of their medicinal and vitamin profile:

1. Medicinal Properties:Immune Support: Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds like beta-glucans, which are believed to enhance immune function by stimulating the production of immune cells. Antioxidant Activity: They are rich in antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin E, which help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Certain compounds in shiitake mushrooms have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body. Cholesterol Management: Some research suggests that compounds in shiitake mushrooms may help lower cholesterol levels, promoting heart health. 
2. Vitamin Profile:Vitamin D: Shiitake mushrooms are one of the few plant-based sources of vitamin D, especially when exposed to sunlight or UV radiation during growth. Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. B Vitamins: They contain various B vitamins such as riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), and folate (B9), which play crucial roles in energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell production. Vitamin C: While not as abundant as in some fruits and vegetables, shiitake mushrooms do contain vitamin C, an important antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen synthesis. 

Logs will need to be sourced, and prepped prior to the event. No refunds will be given for no shows for the workshop due to material and labor costs. However, in the event you can't make the workshop, we can hold your logs at our farm in Pittsburgh for pickup for a limited time! So please reach out if you are unable to attend so we can take care of you.