Is Back to the Roots the best mushroom grow kit? A complete review awaits!

Description

Testing the Organic Mushroom Growing Kit

Using the organic mushroom growing kit was unlike anything I had tried before. I’ve grown herbs and small plants, but mushrooms? That was completely new territory. When I first opened the box, everything seemed straightforward. The instructions were easy to follow, and the kit itself is made from organic, GMO-free materials, which was a big plus for me. I appreciated the thoughtfulness of the brand in making the product eco-friendly and safe for indoor gardening.

Setting Up the Mushroom Kit

The process began with soaking the block, which is the core of the kit infused with mushroom spawn. I left it submerged in water overnight, as recommended. The next morning, I placed it near a window with indirect light and began misting it twice a day with the included spray bottle. The first few days felt like a waiting game, but by the fourth day, I noticed tiny white clumps forming. It was exciting to see the mushrooms begin to grow, almost like watching nature unfold in real-time right in my living room.

Growth Process and Daily Maintenance

What surprised me most was how fast the mushrooms grew. They seemed to change visibly within hours. By day five, the small clumps turned into full-fledged mushroom heads, and within ten days, I was ready to harvest. The kit promises two crops per block, which I found to be accurate. However, I noticed that the second crop was smaller and required more effort to coax out compared to the first.

Misting is crucial to success with this kit. I learned quickly that keeping the block moist was key. On particularly dry days, I misted the block more than twice to ensure it stayed hydrated. I even tried placing a perforated plastic bag over it to maintain humidity, a trick I read from another user review, and it worked wonders.

The Taste Test

Once harvested, the mushrooms were a delight to cook with. They had a fresh, earthy flavor that far surpassed store-bought varieties. I sautéed them with garlic and olive oil, and the texture was incredible. My kids, who usually turn their noses up at mushrooms, were equally fascinated by the growing process and actually enjoyed eating them. That alone was worth the effort.

Pros

• Organic and GMO-Free: The materials used in the kit are safe and environmentally friendly, making it a guilt-free gardening experience.
• Beginner-Friendly Instructions: The step-by-step guide was simple to follow, even for someone like me who doesn’t have a green thumb.
• Quick Results: In just ten days, I had a harvest of fresh, edible mushrooms.
• Educational and Fun: Kids loved the experience, and it’s a great way to teach them about how food grows.
• Two Harvests Per Kit: The potential for a second crop adds extra value.

Cons

• Humidity Sensitivity: If you live in a dry climate, maintaining the right conditions can be tricky without extra effort, such as using a plastic bag.
• Second Crop Challenges: The second batch of mushrooms often requires more attention and yields less than the first.
• Short Shelf Life: The mushrooms need to be harvested promptly to avoid mold or spoilage.
• Not Foolproof: Some kits might not grow as expected, especially if the block is too dry or old.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to other mushroom growing kits, this one stands out for its simplicity and eco-friendly design. For instance, some brands like Fungi Perfecti offer more robust setups but require a steeper learning curve and additional tools for optimal results. While their kits might produce higher yields, they’re less beginner-friendly and not as compact.

On the flip side, cheaper alternatives often compromise on quality and don’t guarantee growth. I’ve seen kits that come with poorly prepared substrate blocks, leading to disappointing outcomes. This brand’s guarantee to grow is a standout feature that many competitors don’t offer. However, it’s worth noting that Fungi Perfecti kits might be better for those seeking long-term mushroom cultivation with higher overall output.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

This kit strikes a good balance between cost and value. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the ease of use and guaranteed results make it worth the investment. The ability to harvest two crops per block adds to the value, especially if you can maximize the yield. It’s a particularly great buy if you’re introducing kids to gardening or want a unique indoor activity. However, if you’re looking for a more professional setup for continuous mushroom farming, you might find better long-term value in higher-end kits from specialized brands.

Additional information