Which grow kit should you choose for a beginner?
Mycology is a complex branch of science, but thanks to the unique forms taken by selected mushrooms and their individual stages, it provides many incredible experiences. Among the specimens whose early stages of development are most eagerly observed are mushrooms of the Psilocybe cubensis species. These organisms have many variants, and each develops slightly differently. If you’re intrigued by the thought of mycology, you’ll certainly want to know which grow kit for beginners is right for you. Learn more about them below.
What is a grow kit?
First, you should learn what a grow kit is. Both growkits for beginners and advanced users are packages containing a substrate inoculated with biological mushroom material, in this case – Psilocybe cubensis. Theoretically, such a kit allows you to grow your own fruiting bodies. However, this is only a theory, as practice clashes with the law in Poland and many other countries. Why?
Mushrooms from this family contain psilocybin, an intoxicating and psychedelic substance that is legally banned in many countries. So how is it possible that a growkit for beginners is on the market? This is because the products it contains do not contain any banned substances – only the fruiting bodies produce them. Therefore, enthusiasts of studying various organisms under a microscope will certainly appreciate this fact. It’s time to learn which kits are recommended for beginners.
Golden Teacher growkit
The Golden Teacher is a true legend, appreciated by both inexperienced observers and advanced mycologists. The extraordinary mycelium of this variant can teach you a great deal when observed under a microscope, while also providing a truly unique experience. The rapid colonization and extraordinary fecundity of this variety make it highly valued by mycologists.
What are the fruiting bodies of Golden Teacher? They grow on long, fleshy legs. Their caps are initially almost entirely brown with light margins and whitish patches. Over time, they open, and only the papilla remains darker, while the edges are noticeably lighter and ochre. When mature, they become flat with a slight depression in the center.
Malabar Grow Kit
If you’re just starting out with mushroom research, this grow kit is definitely for you. It takes its name from the Malabar Coast, where this variant occurs naturally. Its colonization is incredibly fast, so you’ll surely notice numerous intriguing events on a microscope slide.
In laboratories and in nature, these mushrooms grow very quickly. Fruiting bodies develop best at temperatures between 21 and 25° Celsius, but if these temperatures increase – this is not a problem for them either. Adult mushrooms of the Malabar variant have small, brown caps and a relatively long stem.
McKennaii growkit
When it comes to growkits for beginners, the McKennai growkit, derived from an unusual variant developed by Terence McKenna, is an attractive choice. As with most Psilocybe cubensis, colonization occurs fastest at temperatures between 21-25° Celsius. Under a microscope, you’ll see many unusual nuances of this variant.
It’s worth knowing a little about the mature fruiting bodies, which you can’t grow, but are also fascinating. They have very long, thin stems, and the caps are flat, ochre-colored, with a distinctly darker wart. It’s worth emphasizing that McKennaii mushrooms have a high psilocybin content, so their potential effects are much more intense.
Mazatapec growkit
For the beginner mycologist, Mazatapec growkit is an excellent option! What makes it special? This grow kit for beginners (and even the most advanced) is a truly primal force. It originates from Psilocybe cubensis variants found directly in the lands of the ancient Maya and Aztecs, who used them in their rituals. What’s remarkable is their rapid colonization. Although they prefer similar temperatures to the aforementioned variants, they thrive in less favorable conditions.
Ripe fruiting bodies have thin beige stems, and the caps are regular, characteristic of Psilocybe cubensis, with a darker wart and light edges. Sometimes, spots appear on its surface.
Observe the fascinating world under the microscope!
Above, you could have seen the most popular grow kits for beginners. Among them, there are various variants that provide a unique experience of observing their colonization. However, remember – growing Psilocybe mushrooms is prohibited in Poland and severely punished.