Troubleshooting Guide

FunGuy Troubleshooting Guide: Let’s Get You Growing

1. "My bag isn't doing anything." (No Growth)

  • The Cause: Most often, this is a temperature issue or a "dormant" culture.

  • The Fix: * Check the Temp: Mycelium loves a "sweet spot" of 75–80°F. If your room is 68°F, growth will be agonizingly slow. Use a seedling heat mat (not touching the bag directly) if necessary.

    • Be Patient: Depending on your genetics, it can take 7–14 days to see the first white "specks" of mycelium.

    • The Flip: Sometimes liquid culture settles at the bottom. Gently tilt the bag once to move the liquid around the grain, then leave it alone.

2. "What is this yellow liquid?" (Metabolites)

  • The Cause: Often called "mycelium piss," this is a natural byproduct. It means the mycelium is active and potentially fighting off a minor stressor or just maturing.

  • The Fix: Don't panic! If the bag smells earthy and the mycelium is bright white, yellow droplets are normal. If the liquid is dark brown/slimy and the bag smells like vinegar, contact us.

3. "I see green, blue, or black." (Contamination)

  • The Cause: "The Green Monster" (Trichoderma) or mold. This usually happens due to a non-sterile inoculation or a compromised culture.

  • The Fix: * Identify: Blue is often just bruising (normal if you just handled/mixed the bag). Green, black, or "fuzzy" grey is mold.

    • The Test: If you see a spot, don't open the bag! If it grows rapidly and looks "dusty," it's mold.

    • Our Promise: If your bag contaminates before you even open it, take a photo and email us. That’s what our Success Coverage is for.

4. "The bag is stalled after the Mix."

  • The Cause: The mycelium needs to "re-group" after being broken up.

  • The Fix: * Give it Air: Ensure the 0.2-micron filter patch isn't blocked or pressed against a wall. It needs to "breathe" to recover.

    • Don't Over-Mix: Once you've done the "Break and Shake," leave it alone. Constant handling stresses the mycelium.

5. "My mushrooms are long and skinny."

  • The Cause: High $CO_2$ levels. Your mushrooms are "reaching" for oxygen.

  • The Fix: Increase Fresh Air Exchange (FAE). Fan the bag more frequently or ensure your grow area has better circulation.

The "FunGuy" Gold Rule:

"When in doubt, don't throw it out!" > Many growers mistake bruising for mold. Before you toss your kit, snap a clear photo in natural light and send it to funguygrowkits@gmail.com. We’ll give you an expert second opinion.