When buying shiitake fruiting blocks, “mature blocks” and “unbrowned blocks” are the two most commonly asked about delivery stages. Choosing the wrong stage can delay fruiting or reduce uniformity and yield.
1. What are mature blocks?
Mature blocks are fully colonized and have completed browning. A brown fungal layer forms on the surface, marking the transition from vegetative growth to reproductive growth and indicating the block is ready to fruit.
2. When are unbrowned blocks suitable?
Unbrowned blocks are not fully colonized or have not completed browning. They suit growers with mature cultivation facilities who want to control colonization and browning themselves, as well as orders with special cost or delivery requirements.
3. How to judge the delivery stage
- Mycelium: has it colonized the block evenly?
4. Selection advice
If you are unsure which stage to choose, tell us your temperature, humidity, ventilation and facilities. We will help you choose. Specifications, size, weight and delivery stage can all be customized.