Monotubs are one of the easiest, most effective ways to grow mushrooms at home. Whether you’re new to growing or dialing in your setup, this guide breaks down the process step-by-step.
If you’ve got one of our SporeVaultCO monotub kits, you’ll find a pack of 10 peel-and-stick filter membranes included. These are easy to install, providing superior airflow and contamination control compared to traditional micropore tape.
Stay tuned—we’ll soon have full video tutorials showing both the monotub setup process and how to install the filter membranes in detail.
What You’ll Need
- Monotub (pre-drilled if DIY, or ready-to-go with your kit)
- 10 peel-and-stick filter membranes (included with SporeVaultCO kits)
- 10 lbs of substrate (coco coir, vermiculite, gypsum blend works great)
- Grain spawn bag (fully colonized)
- Black trash bag (for lining)
- Razor blade or scissors (for cutting the liner)
- Spray bottle (for misting)
- Optional: Micropore tape (as a backup, though our filter membranes handle airflow perfectly)
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Monotub
1. Prep Your Monotub
If you’re using a SporeVaultCO monotub kit:
- You’ll receive 10 peel-and-stick filter membranes. All you need to do is peel them off the backing and stick them over the air holes on your monotub. That’s it. They’re designed to regulate fresh air exchange while preventing contaminants from getting in.
If you’re DIYing:
- Drill holes (about 1.5–2 inches in diameter) near the top and bottom of the tub.
- Apply the peel-and-stick filter membranes over the holes just like in the kits.
- Prefer to DIY everything? We’ve got a video tutorial coming soon that’ll show you how to make your own monotub from scratch, including tips on hole placement and airflow.
2. Create a Liner with a Trash Bag
Using a liner helps prevent side pinning (mushrooms growing up the sides) and makes cleanup easier.
- Take a black trash bag and fit it loosely inside the monotub, pressing it against the walls.
- Use a razor blade or scissors to trim the liner about 6 to 7 inches from the bottom, creating a neat, snug liner.
- Smooth out any major wrinkles, but don’t stress about perfection—the mycelium will do the rest.
3. Prepare Your Substrate
- Use 10 pounds of hydrated substrate. This is the sweet spot for most standard monotubs—it fills the tub perfectly without compacting, allowing for optimal mycelium growth.
- The moisture should be at field capacity: squeeze a handful—just a few drops of water should come out.
4. Add Your Grain Spawn
Instead of inoculating directly into the substrate, we recommend using a fully colonized grain spawn bag. This method reduces contamination risk and allows for more control.
- In a clean environment, break up the grain bag to loosen the mycelium.
- Mix it evenly with the substrate directly in the monotub, making sure the grains are well distributed.
- Level out the surface for uniform growth.
5. Incubation Phase (Colonization)
- Snap the lid on your monotub. Some growers flip the lid upside down to create slight airflow, but with SporeVaultCO’s filter membranes, you don’t need to worry about that—air exchange is perfectly balanced.
- Place the tub in a warm, dark space (around 70–75°F).
- Let the mycelium colonize the substrate fully. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s completely covered in white mycelium.
6. Fruiting Conditions
Once colonization is complete, it’s time to introduce fruiting conditions:
- Expose the tub to indirect light. A simple ambient room light works fine.
- Maintain temperatures around 65–75°F.
- Mist the inside walls lightly with water to keep humidity up, but don’t soak the substrate.
- Adjust airflow by loosening the filter membranes slightly if needed. (If you’re using micropore tape, you can peel back a corner for more fresh air.)
7. Harvest Time
When the mushroom caps start to flatten or just before the veil breaks, they’re ready to harvest.
- Gently twist and pull from the base, or for a clean cut, use the official SporeVaultCO knife. It’s designed specifically for precision harvesting, making it easy to get clean cuts without damaging the substrate.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too Wet? Increase airflow slightly and reduce misting.
- Too Dry? Mist more frequently, especially around the tub walls.
- Contamination? If you see green, black, or funky smells, isolate the tub immediately to prevent spore spread.
Why Filter Membranes Are a Game-Changer
While micropore tape works in a pinch, our peel-and-stick filter membranes are designed to last longer, resist moisture better, and provide more consistent airflow—perfect for monotub growers looking to minimize contamination risks without constantly adjusting airflow.
Need help installing them? Check out our upcoming tutorial video, where we’ll show you exactly how to apply them for the best results.
Coming Soon: Full Video Tutorial
We’re putting together detailed video guides that will show you:
- How to set up your monotub from start to finish
- How to install your peel-and-stick filter membranes
- Pro tips for optimizing your grow and troubleshooting common issues
Stay tuned!
Final Thoughts
Growing mushrooms in a monotub doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right setup—like our SporeVaultCO monotub kits—you’ll be harvesting fresh mushrooms in no time.
Need supplies? Check out SporeVaultCO.com for high-quality kits, substrates, and cultivation tools to make your grow effortless.