Nameko 'Plant & Grow' Garden Block
Nameko 'Plant & Grow' Garden Block
SKU:LGL-GBLOCK-PN1
Grow a Popular Japanese Mushroom
Our Nameko Plant & Grow Blocks feature a popular strain widely cultivated in Japan. These kits produce mushrooms that have an earthy flavor with subtle fruit-like hints. And, when cooked, they will fill the air with an aroma that is reminiscent of cashews and butterscotch. As namekos grow, they become covered in a layer of natural gelatin which gives them a unique, almost shiny appearance. In addition to eating the mushroom, their gelatinous covering has a variety of uses and can be made into soups, sauces, or used as a natural thickening agent!
Nameko mushroom kits, though reliable, require extra attention and more time to produce mushrooms. Because they need cooler temperatures and constant humidity when fruiting, they are more difficult to cultivate. They are not ideal for beginners, but can be quite rewarding for experienced growers.
Product Details
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Product Category
Edibles
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Product Subcategory:
Mushrooms
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Botanical Name:
Pholiota nameko
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Does Not Ship To:
AZ
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Mature Height:
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Mature Width:
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Growing Zone:
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Indoor Growing:
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Sunlight:
Shade
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Growth Rate:
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Harvest Time:
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Bloom Time:
Planting Directions
<h2>How to Plant & Grow Nameko Mushrooms Outdoors</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Choose a Site:</strong> Find a cool, shady spot like under trees or on a north-facing slope. Avoid any location with strong afternoon sun.</li> <li><strong>Bury the Block:</strong> <ul> <li>Dig a shallow hole slightly larger than the block.</li> <li>Place the block in moist soil, flush with the ground surface.</li> <li>Cover loosely with straw, pine needles, or leaf litter—just enough to keep humidity up without sealing it in.</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Stimulate Fruiting:</strong> Use a clean fork to gently scratch the top 1 cm of the block to encourage pin formation.</li> <li><strong>Temperature:</strong> Best fruiting occurs below 65°F (18°C). Plant in fall or early spring. In hotter climates, bury deeper and use mulch or shade cloth to cool the soil.</li> <li><strong>Humidity:</strong> Keep humidity high—especially during dry spells or pinning. Mist the area twice daily (morning and evening) to keep the block from drying out.</li> <li><strong>Airflow:</strong> Avoid enclosed or stagnant areas. Natural outdoor airflow is usually enough, but make sure there's no buildup of stale air.</li> </ul> <h2>What to Expect</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Fruiting Timeline:</strong> Namekos may take several weeks to start pinning, especially if temperatures are borderline.</li> <li><strong>Harvesting:</strong> Pick before caps flatten. Twist or cut at the base, and remove any soil or debris.</li> </ul> <p>Tip: Keep the area moist and shaded for continued flushes. With the right conditions, your block can fruit multiple times over a season.</p>
FAQs
<h2>FAQs – Nameko 'Plant & Grow' Garden Block</h2> <ul> <li> <strong>1. What makes Nameko mushrooms different from other grow-at-home kits?</strong><br> Nameko mushrooms have a signature slick, shiny surface thanks to their natural gelatin layer. This isn’t just for looks—it adds a subtle thickness when used in soups or sauces. Flavor-wise, they’re earthy with fruity undertones, and the cooked aroma is often compared to roasted cashews or butterscotch. Unlike easier mushroom varieties, Nameko requires cooler temps and consistent humidity, making them a bit more of a project—best suited for growers with a little experience under their belt. </li> <li> <strong>2. Can I grow Nameko mushrooms indoors or in containers?</strong><br> Yes, but you’ll need to mimic their natural environment closely. Nameko prefers cool, humid conditions, so growing indoors means keeping them in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources. A humidity tent or humidifier helps maintain moisture levels. Container growing is ideal since you can control the microclimate more precisely. </li> <li> <strong>3. How long does it take for Nameko mushrooms to grow?</strong><br> Nameko is a slow and steady grower. Once conditions are right, expect the first flush in 4 to 6 weeks, though it can take longer depending on the environment. Patience pays off—these mushrooms tend to produce multiple flushes if well cared for. </li> <li> <strong>4. How do I harvest Nameko mushrooms, and can I use the gelatin layer?</strong><br> Harvest by gently twisting or cutting mushrooms at the base once their caps are fully formed and slightly open. The gelatin layer, unique to Nameko, can be collected during prep—don’t rinse it off! It’s edible and naturally thickens soups, sauces, and even stir-fries. </li> <li> <strong>5. What are the biggest challenges when growing Nameko, and how can I overcome them?</strong><br> The two main hurdles are temperature and humidity. Nameko likes it cool—around 50–60°F—and requires steady moisture to fruit. Using a humidity tent, misting daily, and avoiding direct sunlight can make all the difference. If your space runs warm, consider growing in fall or winter for better results. </li> </ul>