What is Mushroom Furniture?
Mushroom furniture refers to sustainable items made from mycelium, the root-like structure of fungi. It grows by binding organic substrates into strong, biodegradable forms, such as chairs or tables, reducing environmental impact.
How Mushroom Furniture is Grown
This involves inoculating a nutrient-rich substrate with mycelium spores and incubating it under controlled conditions. The mycelium colonizes the substrate, forming a solid structure through natural binding, and is then harvested and dried.
Easy Steps to Make Your Own
- Prepare Substrate: Mix organic waste like straw or sawdust with water and sterilize it to eliminate contaminants.
- Inoculate: Add mycelium spores to the cooled substrate and blend thoroughly.
- Shape and Seal: Pack the mixture into a mold (e.g., plastic form) and seal it to maintain humidity.
- Incubate: Store at 20-25°C in dark conditions for 1-4 weeks, allowing full mycelium growth.
- Deactivate and Dry: Heat-treat to stop growth, then air-dry the formed piece for durability.
