How to grow Shiitake in Australia
Grow on hardwood logs or blocks rather than in soil, kept in deep shade out of sun and wind. The wood must stay moist, so soak or mist it regularly and never let it dry out.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Sun: Shade tolerant
- Water: 5 litres a week, watered every 2 days
- Time to harvest: 60 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 5 to 6
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | All year | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | All year | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | All year | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | All year | |
| Adelaide & SA | All year | |
| Perth & WA | All year | |
| Tasmania | All year | Year-round indoors. Tasmania suits outdoor log culture better than anywhere - cool, moist and shaded is exactly what shiitake wants. |
| Canberra & ACT | All year | |
| North Queensland | May to August | Cool months only. Shiitake fruits at about 14 to 20C, so start blocks or soak logs May to Aug, in the coolest shaded spot you have. |
| Darwin & Top End | Not suited | Not suited outdoors. Shiitake fruits at about 14 to 20C and Darwin nights rarely drop that low. Grow pink oyster mushroom instead. |
Varieties
- Wide Range
- Cold Weather
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Ready when caps open to about two thirds, with edges still slightly curled under. Twist and pull from the log or cut at the base; logs flush again after a rest.
Storage
Fridge in paper bag for 1 week. Dry and store for 12+ months.