Cordyceps militaris colonization stage management

     After inoculation, the cultivation trays should be left undisturbed for 48 hours to allow the liquid spawn to establish effectively on the substrate. During the mycelial growth period, it is essential to maintain strict darkness, ensure adequate ventilation, and keep the air fresh. The relative humidity should be controlled between 65% and 70%.

     To prevent contamination by competing molds, the room temperature should be kept at 18°C. Under these conditions, the mycelium typically colonizes the entire substrate layer within 5 to 7 days. Once the mycelium has fully covered the surface, exposure to visible light will induce pigment development, marking the transition to the next cultivation stage.

     The typical progression of mycelial growth is as follows:

• Day 2 after inoculation: Mycelium begins to develop, appearing as scattered dots and patches on the surface.

• Day 3: The mycelium expands rapidly from small patches to larger areas, covering more than half of the substrate surface.

• Day 4: Over two-thirds of the surface is colonized by mycelium.

• Days 5–7: The mycelium generally covers the entire surface and permeates the interior of the substrate as well.