So this is a tek I don't plan on posting anywhere else since I really don't frequent anywhere else but here. It really needs to lively up, IMO. So here's a little contribution from myself.

I've noticed alot of questions substrate related here lately. I believe I have enough knowledge to post some basics, but if anyone else have anything to add feel free to reply and I'll add it to the main list. Also, the biggest challenge I've found about this topic is the way to organize it, so you may find it being re-arranged every so often.

These are all ingredients that I have enough experience with to vouch for and explain. If there is an ingredient you are looking for but is not in this post, it's most likely because I haven't had enough experience to properly describe the ingredient. Or I just don't see the ingredient as a logical alternative to an ingredient below.

Anyways, here goes:

BULK INGREDIENTS:
These are ingredients that will make up the bulk of most substrates.

Horse Manure: Horse manure is a great substrate in itself. It's high in fiber, starches, and nitrogen. Do not get manure from the horse shed b/c most owners put cedar chips on the ground for odor control. Also, manure in the shed will have a higher urine content, so you would have to leach it longer.
.... *Due to its consistency, it can be hydrated to field capacity and used as is.
........-However, adding vermiculite and/or straw will enhance your results.
....*Not any manure will do. Check for signs of field composting such as completely dry nuggets that have an earthy smell. It's important all urine is able to evaporate, as well as properly dried.
........-Actinomycetes (firefang) are a good sign of properly aged manure. this is the white fuzzy-looking bacteria that are present in dried horse manure nuggets and the dried dungs of many other animals. This bacteria is very beneficial to both mushrooms and plants.
........-Manure nuggets should be dry, light-brown, and have an earthy aroma. Should not smell like manure.
....*If alot of weeds are collected along with your manure, sifting is reccomended. If not, only shredding should suffice.

Coco Coir:
Coco Coir is another great substrate ingredient. While nutritiously inert to plants, Coco Coir has many nutrients available to mushrooms. Coco Coir comes in compressed bricks and can be found in pet stores, but are usually cheapeat at hydroponics/garden stores.
....*Is seriously lacking in nitrogen.
........-Mix with horse manure, or add a quick-release high-nitrogen fertilizer such as blood meal.
....*Mixing with vermiculite is reccomended to make this substrate a bit more air-permeable. Mixing with both manure and straw also provides great results.
....*pH is usually a bit acidic and should be adjusted up with lime or organic pH UP products.

Wheat Straw
Wheat straw is a great bulk substrate ingredient, but mixing with manure and/or Coco Coir can equate to better results.
....*Contains moderate amounts of nitrogen.
....*Should be shredded into consistent 2-3 inch pieces.


Not yet complete. Does anyone know how to add spaces via BBcode?

was wondering if any one ever tried using the stuff they put in hamster cages? was at the pet shop today and it crossed my mind

Awesome Wally. I havn't seen you anywhere else in ages. I'm down to liven this place up a bit. Do you have a link to your pasteurization tek here?

No, Tavid, the only place I had that thing up was at ST and haven't got around to posting it here. I've been really busy with school and getting my own (legitimate) business going. I'm guessing that's something you would like to see posted?

Which bedding were you talking about? I think some of it is cedar which is bad because it has anti-fungal properties, same reason you don't want horse manure from the shed because the owners usually put cedar chips on the ground for odor control.