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Key Growth Conditions for Hericium Erinaceus: Light & pH

Light Requirements

• Mycelium stage: Grows faster in the dark; weak light is acceptable (linked to ventilation) but avoid strong light.

• Fruiting body stage: Needs 200–400 lux scattered light (50 lux triggers primordium formation). Blue light boosts primordium differentiation. Excess light (>1000 lux) causes red discoloration and stunted growth.

• Note: Thorns grow with geotropism—stable container placement prevents deformation.

pH Requirements

• Prefers acidity: Mycelium thrives at pH 5 (grows in pH 4–7; stalls above 7.5).

• Adjustment tips: Add 1–1.5% gypsum or calcium carbonate to buffer acidification from mycelial organic acid secretion. Pre-sterilization pH should be 5.5–6.5 to reach optimal levels post-sterilization and growth.

These conditions ensure robust, high-quality Hericium erinaceus growth!