{"product_id":"plug-kit","title":"Shiitake Log Plug Kit","description":"\u003cdiv dir=\"ltr\" aria-busy=\"false\" aria-live=\"polite\" id=\"model-response-message-contentr_490b06829a607c03\" class=\"markdown markdown-main-panel tutor-markdown-rendering enable-updated-hr-color\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"0\"\u003eThe \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"4\" data-path-to-node=\"0\"\u003eRiver’s Ridge Farms Plug Kit\u003c\/b\u003e is designed as an all-in-one, low-barrier entry point for anyone looking to grow gourmet or medicinal mushrooms outdoors using natural wood. By utilizing the traditional \"plug method,\" this starter kit provides the exact tools and biological material needed to transform freshly cut logs, stumps, or totems into a long-term mushroom patch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"1\"\u003eA typical plug kit includes everything required to complete the inoculation process from scratch, minimizing upfront tool investment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"1\"\u003ehttps:\/\/riversridgefarms.com\/pages\/information-sheets\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"attachment-container search-images\"\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003eKit Components Breakdown\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003eEvery item in the kit plays a specific role in successfully introducing mushroom mycelium (the root-like network of the fungus) into a wood host:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"\u003e100-Count Plug Spawn Bag:\u003c\/b\u003e These are small wooden dowels or plugs that have been fully colonized by Shiitake. A 100-count bag is generally enough to inoculate 2 to 3 medium-sized logs (roughly 3 to 4 feet long and 4 to 6 inches in diameter).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003eSpecialized Drill Bit:\u003c\/b\u003e Usually an 8.5mm bit fitted with a \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"58\" data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003estop collar\u003c\/b\u003e. This is crucial because it ensures you drill to the exact depth of the wooden plugs every single time, preventing you from drilling too deep and wasting mycelial energy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\"\u003eSealing Wax \u0026amp; Wax Applicator:\u003c\/b\u003e Natural wax (often beeswax or paraffin) that is melted down and applied over the inserted plugs using the included brush or dauber. This seals in moisture and protects the vulnerable mycelium from competing wild molds, bacteria, and insects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"6,3,0\"\u003eInstruction Guide:\u003c\/b\u003e A step-by-step manual walking you through log selection, spacing patterns, incubation, and forcing a harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-path-to-node=\"8\"\u003eHow It Works: The Inoculation Process\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"9\"\u003eThe process is highly physical but straightforward, relying on simple backyard tools alongside the kit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"attachment-container unknown\"\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003csequence class=\"lm-enabled ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-container\" jslog=\"308913;track:impression,attention\" data-hveid=\"0\" decode-data-ved=\"1\" data-ved=\"0CAAQse0SahcKEwjvn_PinPOUAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQQg\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-content\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-description gds-body-l\"\u003e\n\u003cspan only-show-to-message-actions=\"\" data-test-id=\"sequence-export-header\" class=\"only-show-to-message-actions\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e1.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003eSource and Drill the Logs:\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFresh hardwood is best.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstructured-node-sequence class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cstructured-text class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003cp class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003eUse a standard power drill with the included specialized bit. Drill holes into a fresh hardwood log (like oak, maple, or birch) spaced roughly 4 to 6 inches apart in a staggered, diamond pattern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-text\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-node-sequence\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-content\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-description gds-body-l\"\u003e\n\u003cspan only-show-to-message-actions=\"\" data-test-id=\"sequence-export-header\" class=\"only-show-to-message-actions\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e2.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003eInsert the Plug Spawn:\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eTap them flush.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstructured-node-sequence class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cstructured-text class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003cp class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003eTake the mycelium-covered wooden dowels from the bag and push them into the freshly drilled holes. Use a standard hammer or rubber mallet to tap them gently until they are flush with the bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-text\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-node-sequence\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-content\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-description gds-body-l\"\u003e\n\u003cspan only-show-to-message-actions=\"\" data-test-id=\"sequence-export-header\" class=\"only-show-to-message-actions\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e3.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003eSeal with Melted Wax:\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eProtect the mycelium.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstructured-node-sequence class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cstructured-text class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003cp class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003eMelt the included sealing wax in a safe container. Using the wax applicator, paint a layer of hot wax over every inserted plug and any exposed raw wood on the log ends to lock in moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-text\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-node-sequence\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-content\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"sequence-event-description gds-body-l\"\u003e\n\u003cspan only-show-to-message-actions=\"\" data-test-id=\"sequence-export-header\" class=\"only-show-to-message-actions\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e4.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003eIncubate and Wait:\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e6 to 12 months.\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstructured-node-sequence class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003cstructured-text class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003cp class=\"ng-star-inserted\"\u003ePlace the logs in a shaded, damp outdoor area where they can receive natural rainfall. Over the next several months, the mycelium will eat through the log (spawn run) until it is fully colonized and ready to fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-text\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c\/structured-node-sequence\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/sequence\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-path-to-node=\"12\"\u003eWhy Choose a Plug Kit?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"13\"\u003eFor beginners, plug kits offer a distinct set of advantages over commercial bulk methods:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"13\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"14,0\"\u003eLong-Term Rewards:\u003c\/b\u003e While a sawdust block might fruit inside your house within two weeks, a natural log inoculated with a plug kit can produce seasonal flushes of mushrooms for \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"176\" data-path-to-node=\"14,0\"\u003e3 to 6 years\u003c\/b\u003e, depending on the density and size of the log.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"15,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"15,0,0\"\u003eLowest Upfront Cost:\u003c\/b\u003e Instead of buying specialized angle grinders, high-speed adapters, or expensive inoculation guns, this kit adapts directly to a standard household power drill.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"15,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"15,1,0\"\u003eContamination Resistance:\u003c\/b\u003e Mycelium traveling on a solid wooden plug is much hardier and more resistant to drying out or being outcompeted by wild fungi than loose sawdust spawn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"15,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"15,2,0\"\u003eVersatility:\u003c\/b\u003e It allows you to utilize backyard waste, such as stumps left over from tree removal or fresh trimmings from trail clearing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"River's Ridge Farms","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51175794409772,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0900\/9853\/2652\/files\/PXL_20250810_215538015.PORTRAIT.ORIGINAL.jpg?v=1780769806","url":"https:\/\/riversridgefarms.com\/products\/plug-kit","provider":"River's Ridge Farms","version":"1.0","type":"link"}