Tips & Tricks for Growing Mushrooms During Winter and Colder Months

Cold weather doesn’t mean your mushroom grows have to slow down. While winter brings a few extra challenges—lower temperatures, drier air, and less ambient light—mushrooms can absolutely thrive year-round with the right adjustments. Whether you’re running your first monotub or managing multiple grows, these winter-specific tips will help you stay on track and avoid common cold-season pitfalls.

At Colorado Cultures, we see a seasonal shift in grow issues every winter—here’s how to stay ahead of them.

1. Dial In Your Temperature (This Is the Big One)

Temperature is the most common winter issue we see.

Ideal ranges:

• Colonization: 75–80°F

• Fruiting: 68–75°F

Many homes drop well below this overnight during colder months, which can significantly slow colonization or cause stalled tubs.

Winter tips:

• Avoid garages, basements, or exterior walls

• Use interior closets or insulated rooms

• Small space heaters work well—just don’t blow hot air directly on tubs

• Heat the room, not the grow (no heating mats under tubs)

✅ Consistent temperature matters more than being “perfect."

2. Watch Humidity (Dry Air Sneaks Up Fast)

Winter air is much drier, especially with indoor heating running. Low humidity can cause:

• Slow pin formation

• Small or cracked fruits

• Dry surface conditions

What helps:

• Light misting when surface looks dry (avoid soaking)

• Keeping tubs away from vents and heaters

• Using liners to reduce side and bottom evaporation

✅ A properly hydrated substrate will do most of the work for you.

3. Don’t Overcorrect With Water

A common winter mistake is over-misting to fight dryness. Too much moisture can cause bacterial issues or stalling.

Rule of thumb:

• If you see beads of moisture on the surface, you’re good

• Standing water = too much

• Bone-dry surface = mist lightly

✅ Mushrooms like balance—cold + wet is worse than slightly dry + stable.

4. Light Still Matters (But Keep It Simple)

Shorter days don’t mean mushrooms need darkness.

• 12 hours on / 12 hours off is perfect

• Simple ambient LED or room light is enough

• Avoid red lighting colors

✅ Light is a directional signal, not an energy source.

5. Fresh Air Exchange Is Still Important

People often seal their tubs tighter in winter to “hold heat.” This can backfire.

• Stale air = slow pins and fuzzy feet

• Proper filters or cracked lids still matter

• If temps are correct in the room, airflow won’t hurt the grow

✅ Heat retention shouldn’t come at the expense of oxygen.

6. Expect Slower Growth (And Don’t Panic)

Winter grows often:

• Colonize slower

• Take longer to pin

• Fruit slightly smaller at first

This is normal.

🚫 Constantly adjusting temps, misting, or opening tubs will do more harm than good.

✅ Patience + consistency = winter success.

7. Pest & Contamination Awareness

Winter doesn’t eliminate pests entirely—gnats and contamination still happen, especially indoors.

Preventative steps:

• Keep grows sealed and clean

• Remove food waste from grow rooms

• Address any gnats early

• Keep workspaces clean and organized

✅ Clean rooms grow better mushrooms.

Final Thoughts: Winter Grows Can Be Incredible

Some growers actually see denser fruits and better flushes during colder months once conditions are dialed in. The key is stability—steady temps, balanced humidity, and resisting the urge to over-manage.

If you ever have questions or want help troubleshooting a winter grow, stop by one of our locations or reach out—we’re always happy to help.

Mush love, and happy winter growing