Spore Explorer: Home Mycology Adventures is an immersive online course designed to guide beginners through the fascinating world of mushroom cultivation at home. This course is perfect for those interested in understanding and practicing mushroom cultivation at home. With a blend of interactive content, video tutorials, and practical assignments, led by Zach Gillman and Nova Mycelia, Patrons will embark on a comprehensive educational journey from the basics of mycology (Sterile TEK, SAB, Agar 101, Innoculation, etc.) to advanced home cultivation techniques.
Curriculum
- 10 Sections
- 38 Lessons
- Lifetime
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- Section 1: Introduction to MycologyIn this opening section, Myco-Students are introduced to the fascinating world of mycology. They will meet their Mycologist Instructors, Zach and Nova, and learn about the basics of mycology. The section includes an interactive timeline to explore the history of mycology and a lesson on important terminology, ensuring Myco-Students are well-versed in the fundamental language of the field.6
- Section 2: Setting Up Your Home LabThis section guides students through setting up their own home mycology lab. It begins with a video tour of a typical lab setup and discusses essential lab equipment. Myco-Students will engage in an assignment to list and organize their own lab equipment, followed by an interactive game to reinforce their understanding of lab tools.5
- Section 3: Mycelium and Mushroom AnatomyMyco-Students delve into the biology of fungi, learning about mycelium and mushroom anatomy. This section includes detailed lessons and interactive content, such as a diagram exploring mycelium structure and a video dissection of a mushroom to understand its various parts.6
- Section 4: Sterile Technique and Lab SafetyA crucial aspect of mycology, this section focuses on sterile techniques and lab safety. It includes a virtual lab experience for practicing sterile techniques and lessons on how to maintain a safe and contamination-free environment in the lab.10
- Section 5: Cultivation BasicsThis section introduces Myco-Students to the basics of mushroom cultivation. They will learn the SAB (Still Air Box) method for creating a sterile environment and the techniques for preparing and pouring agar. The section combines video tutorials, interactive guides, and practical assignments for hands-on learning.6
- Section 6: Advanced Cultivation Techniques & Contamination ManagementBuilding on the basics, this section covers more advanced cultivation techniques. Lessons include Agar to Grain, Grain to Grain, Grain to Substrate, and identifying and managing contamination, supported by interactive simulations and guides.8
- Section 7: Substrates and PF-TEKMyco-Students will learn about substrate preparation, a key step in mushroom cultivation. This section covers different substrate materials like coco-coir and vermiculite, and the PF Tek method. It includes video tutorials, assignments, and interactive simulators for comprehensive learning.8
- Section 8: Fruiting, Harvesting, and BeyondIn this section, Myco-Students learn about creating optimal fruiting conditions, harvesting, and preserving mushrooms. It includes a lesson on planning a fruiting schedule, a video on harvesting techniques, and interactive content on harvesting and drying methods.7
- Section 9: Community and Extended LearningFostering a sense of community, this section encourages Myco-Students to share experiences and tips in a forum. It also explores diverse mushroom varieties, with interactive games and research assignments to broaden their mycological knowledge.3
- Section 10: Final Review and Comprehensive ExamThe course concludes with a final review and a comprehensive exam to test the Myco-Students' knowledge. This section recaps the course content and prepares Myco-Students for the Myco-Master's Challenge, ensuring they have a solid understanding of all the topics covered.4
No, the course is designed for complete beginners.
You can either source your own or purchase our discounted bundle kits.
It's self-paced, but typically takes about 4-6+ weeks.
Yes, we offer online support and a community forum.
Yes, there are hands-on assignments for real-world experience.
Absolutely! The course is designed for any living situation.
Yes, you can receive a digital certificate of completion.
es, once enrolled, you have lifetime access to the course, up until you complete the course.
Requirements
- Materials and Genetics: Participants can choose to source their own materials and genetics for the course.
- For convenience, we offer discounted bundle kits, including the "Myco-Master's Fruiting Kit" and "Myco-Master's Complete Kit," which come with all necessary equipment and genetics.
- Stable internet access is required to participate in online lessons, interactive content, and video tutorials.
- A Willingness to want to Learn at Your Own Pace!
Features
- Interactive Video Content featuring Zach Gillman and Nova Mycelia.
- Hands-on assignments for Practical Learning.
- Interactive Content to Enhance Understanding.
- Quizzes at the End of Each Lesson to Test Knowledge.
- Comprehensive Final Exam to Assess Overall Learning.
- Option to Source Mycology Gear Independently or Purchase Bundled Kits.
- Quick Access to TMN Data Sheets for Extended Learning.
Target audiences
- Complete beginners with no prior knowledge of mycology.
- Hobbyists interested in starting home mushroom cultivation.
- Amateur mycologists seeking to enhance their cultivation skills.
- Home gardeners and naturalists looking to explore fungi.
- Individuals interested in sustainable living and DIY projects.
- Biology students and enthusiasts curious about fungi.
