Do Magic Mushrooms Need Light to Grow? What You Should Know

Growing magic mushrooms can be an incredibly rewarding process, but it requires a good understanding of their specific needs, including their light requirements. 

You may be asking, “Do magic mushrooms need light to grow?” or “Do mushrooms grow in the dark?” 

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the role of light in the cultivation of magic mushrooms, particularly focusing on Psilocybe cubensis and other common varieties.

Understanding the growth process of magic mushrooms

So, do shrooms need light to grow?

To fully appreciate how light affects the growth of magic mushrooms, it’s crucial to understand their development stages. 

Magic mushrooms, including Psilocybe cubensis, start their life cycle as spores. These spores germinate into mycelium, which is a network of thread-like structures that colonize a nutrient-rich substrate, such as compost or grain.

Here are the individual phases that the growth process goes through:

• Colonization phase – During this phase, the mycelium spreads throughout the substrate, breaking down organic material and preparing for the fruiting phase. This stage does not require light. The primary concern is maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels.
• Fruiting phase – Once the mycelium has fully colonized the substrate, it enters the fruiting phase. This is when the mycelium begins to produce fruiting bodies – what we recognize as mushrooms. This phase is sensitive to environmental factors, including light, which plays a critical role in initiating and guiding the formation of mushrooms.

Now that you know the basics, it’s time to tackle the real question – do magic mushrooms need light to grow?

Do magic mushrooms need light to grow?

When it comes to the question “do shrooms need light to grow” the answer varies depending on the growth phase.

In short, here are the psilocybe cubensis light requirements.

During the mycelium colonization, magic mushrooms do not need light to grow. 

Mycelium can thrive in complete darkness, focusing solely on spreading and consuming nutrients from the substrate. This darkness helps prevent unwanted contaminants and supports robust mycelial growth.

However, during fruiting, magic shrooms do require light. 

The exposure to light signals the mycelium to start forming fruiting bodies. Without adequate light, the mushrooms may not develop properly or may exhibit abnormal growth patterns.

Types of light needed for magic mushrooms

Now that we’ve answered in brief the question do mushrooms need light to grow, it’s key to note that several types of light can be used to support the growth of magic mushrooms during the fruiting phase. 

Here’s a closer look at the most common options, their pros and cons, and how to use them effectively.

Natural light

One of the biggest benefits of natural light is that it’s free and provides a full spectrum of wavelengths that mimic the mushroom’s natural environment. 

It’s a simple and cost-effective way to provide light.

However, it can be inconsistent due to variations in weather and daylight hours. 

This makes it challenging to maintain optimal light conditions throughout the growth period. Additionally, direct sunlight can be too intense and might lead to overheating or drying out the mushrooms.

Fluorescent lights

At the same time, fluorescent lights are a popular choice because they are affordable and widely available. 

They provide a balanced light spectrum that supports healthy mushroom growth. Cool white fluorescent lights are particularly useful for stimulating the fruiting phase.

Meanwhile, they generate some heat, which may require ventilation or cooling measures to prevent overheating in the growing environment. 

Fluorescent bulbs also need to be replaced periodically, which can add to ongoing costs.

LED lights

Another option that is often used for magic mushroom growth are LED lights.

They are highly efficient, have a long lifespan, and are available in various wavelengths, allowing you to tailor the light spectrum to the needs of your mushrooms.

LEDs also produce minimal heat, making them ideal for maintaining stable growing conditions.

However, the initial cost of LED lights is higher compared to fluorescent options. At the same time, their durability and efficiency often offset the upfront investment. 

Proper selection of the light spectrum is essential to ensure effective fruiting.

Incandescent lights

Wondering why some growers use incandescent lights when growing magic mushrooms?

In short, they are inexpensive and easy to find. They provide a warm light that can sometimes be used for cultivation.

Some of the challenges, however, is that they produce a significant amount of heat, which can lead to temperature fluctuations and potentially harm the growing mushrooms. 

Their light spectrum is not ideal for mushroom growth, as they do not provide the necessary wavelengths for optimal fruiting.

How to use light properly for magic mushrooms

To ensure optimal growth for your psychedelic mushrooms, we offer a few tips on how to use light effectively.

Light Duration

During the fruiting phase, magic mushrooms typically require about 12 hours of light per day. 

This duration mimics natural light cycles and helps regulate the growth of the mushrooms. 

Ensure that the light exposure is consistent each day to avoid disrupting the mushrooms’ growth patterns.

Light intensity

Moderate light intensity is generally sufficient. 

The goal is to provide enough light to stimulate growth without causing overheating. For most light sources, this means placing them at a distance where they provide even coverage without being too close. 

For fluorescent and LED lights, this distance is usually around 6 to 12 inches from the mushrooms.

Light spectrum

Magic mushrooms benefit from a spectrum that includes blue wavelengths. 

Blue light helps trigger the development of primordia, the early stages of mushroom formation. 

Full-spectrum lights or those specifically designed for plant growth are ideal. For Psilocybe cubensis, using lights that include blue and white wavelengths can be particularly effective.

Light placement

Position your light source to ensure even coverage across the growing area. Avoid direct exposure that could lead to overheating or drying out. 

If using fluorescent or LED lights, adjust the height and angle to provide uniform light distribution.

Amount of light needed

Magic mushrooms do not require high-intensity lighting but rather a balanced and consistent light exposure. 

During the fruiting phase, 12 hours of light per day is typically recommended. 

This helps regulate the circadian rhythms of the mushrooms, supporting healthy growth and development. 

Monitoring the light conditions and adjusting as necessary can help ensure that your mushrooms grow robustly and evenly.

Conclusion

While magic mushrooms do not need light during the mycelium colonization phase, providing appropriate light during the fruiting phase is essential for optimal growth. 

By choosing the right type of light, managing intensity, and ensuring proper exposure duration, you can create the ideal conditions for your mushrooms to thrive.

Whether you’re using natural light, fluorescent lights, LED lights, or incandescent options, keeping in mind the specific needs of your magic mushrooms – especially Psilocybe cubensis – will help you cultivate healthy and potent mushrooms. 

Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently navigate the world of mushroom cultivation and enjoy the rewards of your efforts.