How Long Does It Take to Grow Mushrooms?

One of the most common questions new growers ask is: “How long does it take to grow mushrooms?” The answer depends on the species, the growing conditions, and the cultivation method being used. In general, most commonly grown mushrooms can go from inoculation to harvest in 2–6 weeks, making mushroom cultivation one of the fastest forms of home food production.

At Colorado Cultures, we work with a variety of gourmet mushroom species, many of which are known for their fast colonization and reliable harvests. Understanding the stages of mushroom growth can help you plan your grow and get the best results.

The Stages of Mushroom Growth

Mushroom cultivation typically happens in two main phases: colonization and fruiting.

Colonization begins when mushroom culture is introduced to a nutrient-rich substrate such as grain, hardwood sawdust, or a CVG substrate mix. During this stage, the mycelium spreads through the substrate, forming a dense white network. Depending on the species and environmental conditions, colonization usually takes 7–21 days.

Once the substrate is fully colonized, growers introduce fruiting conditions, which include fresh air exchange, high humidity, and indirect light. This triggers the formation of small mushroom pins that develop into mature mushrooms. The fruiting stage typically takes 5–14 days before mushrooms are ready to harvest.

Fast Growing Mushrooms

Some mushrooms grow much faster than others. Oyster mushrooms, for example, are known for their aggressive growth and quick harvest cycles.

Fast-growing species include:

• Cubensis Mushrooms - often ready in 3-5 weeks

• Pink Oyster Mushrooms – often ready in about 2–3 weeks

• Pearl Oyster Mushrooms – typically harvest in 3–4 weeks

• Golden Oyster Mushrooms – very fast colonizers with quick fruiting

• Lion’s Mane Mushrooms – usually harvest in about 3–5 weeks

These varieties are popular choices for beginner growers because they are forgiving and produce reliable yields.

Factors That Affect Growing Time

Several environmental factors can influence how quickly mushrooms grow. Maintaining proper conditions can significantly speed up the process and improve overall yields.

Important factors include:

Temperature – Most gourmet mushrooms grow best between 60–75°F depending on the species.

Humidity – Fruiting mushrooms require high humidity levels between 85–95%.

Fresh Air Exchange – Mushrooms need oxygen to develop properly and form healthy fruiting bodies.

Clean Cultures – Starting with clean, healthy cultures helps ensure fast colonization and prevents contamination.

Harvesting Your Mushrooms

Mushrooms are usually ready to harvest when their caps fully develop but before they begin releasing large amounts of spores. Harvest timing varies by species, but most gourmet mushrooms can produce their first flush within 2–6 weeks after inoculation.

Many substrates will continue producing additional flushes over time, allowing growers to harvest multiple batches from the same grow.

Start Growing with Colorado Cultures

Growing mushrooms at home is easier than many people expect, and with the right supplies and knowledge, beginners can see successful results quickly. At Colorado Cultures, we specialize in high-quality mushroom growing supplies designed to help hobbyists and experienced cultivators grow like pros.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your grow, our team is always happy to help guide you through the process.