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9 Best Mushroom Growing Books for Home Cultivators (2026)

Discover the best mushroom growing books for beginners and experienced cultivators. Learn to grow shiitake, oyster, lion's mane, and gourmet varieties at home.

Mushroom cultivation opens a fascinating world of fungal biology where controlling humidity, temperature, and sterility unlocks harvests of gourmet and medicinal species. The techniques range from simple log inoculation to sophisticated sterile laboratory work, depending on the species and your ambitions. These books cover the full spectrum from beginner-friendly kits to commercial-scale production.

Books & Affiliate Links

#TitleBest ForPriceISBN/ASINAmazon Link
1Growing Gourmet and Medicinal Mushrooms by Paul StametsComprehensive cultivation$401580081754Buy on Amazon
2Mycelium Running by Paul StametsEcological applications$281580085792Buy on Amazon
3Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation by Tradd CotterOrganic methods$351603584552Buy on Amazon
4The Mushroom Cultivator by Paul StametsTechnical reference$450961079800Buy on Amazon
5DIY Mushroom Cultivation by Willoughby ArevaloHome growers$250865719187Buy on Amazon
6Radical Mycology by Peter McCoyAdvanced techniques$500986399604Buy on Amazon
7The Essential Guide to Cultivating Mushrooms by Stephen RussellBeginning cultivators$221612121462Buy on Amazon
8Mushroom Cultivation IV by Peter OeiCommercial growers$659090279539Buy on Amazon
9Growing Mushrooms for Beginners by Sarah Dalziel-KirchhevelComplete beginners$151638782393Buy on Amazon

Book Details

1. Growing Gourmet and Medicinal Mushrooms by Paul Stamets

Widely regarded as the bible of mushroom cultivation, this comprehensive guide covers over 100 species with detailed growing parameters for each. Readers will learn laboratory techniques, spawn production, substrate preparation, and species-specific cultivation strategies backed by decades of research. Perfect for serious cultivators who want an authoritative reference they can consult for years to come.

2. Mycelium Running by Paul Stamets

This visionary book explores how mushrooms can help heal the planet through mycoremediation, habitat restoration, and sustainable agriculture. Readers will discover how fungi break down pollutants, filter water, and rebuild damaged ecosystems while learning practical cultivation techniques. Ideal for environmentally-minded growers interested in the intersection of mushroom cultivation and ecological healing.

3. Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation by Tradd Cotter

A practical guide focused on low-tech, sustainable mushroom farming methods that work with natural systems rather than against them. Readers will learn organic substrate preparation, outdoor cultivation techniques, and how to use fungi for soil remediation and composting. Perfect for homesteaders, permaculturists, and growers seeking chemical-free approaches to mushroom production.

4. The Mushroom Cultivator by Paul Stamets

This scientific reference provides the most detailed technical parameters for mushroom cultivation available, including precise temperature, humidity, and CO2 requirements. Readers gain deep understanding of fungal biology, contamination control, and the science behind successful grows. Essential for cultivators who want to understand the why behind every technique and troubleshoot problems systematically.

5. DIY Mushroom Cultivation by Willoughby Arevalo

An accessible and practical guide designed specifically for home growers who want to cultivate mushrooms without expensive equipment or laboratory setups. Readers learn hands-on projects using everyday materials, from bucket grows to simple agar work, with clear step-by-step instructions. Perfect for hobbyists who want to start growing edible and medicinal mushrooms in their kitchen or basement.

6. Radical Mycology by Peter McCoy

This comprehensive treatise takes an activist approach to mycology, covering advanced cultivation alongside the cultural, ecological, and political dimensions of working with fungi. Readers will explore cutting-edge techniques, experimental methods, and deep fungal knowledge rarely found in mainstream guides. Ideal for experienced cultivators seeking to push boundaries and understand mushrooms within a broader revolutionary framework.

7. The Essential Guide to Cultivating Mushrooms by Stephen Russell

A welcoming introduction that guides beginners through their first successful mushroom harvests with clear, step-by-step instructions. Readers learn simple projects like growing oyster mushrooms on straw and shiitake on logs, building confidence before tackling more challenging species. Perfect for newcomers who want a structured path from complete novice to confident home cultivator.

8. Mushroom Cultivation IV by Peter Oei

The definitive guide for scaling mushroom production to commercial levels, covering industrial equipment, business planning, and large-scale growing techniques. Readers learn how to design growing rooms, manage labor, calculate yields, and build a profitable mushroom farming operation. Essential for entrepreneurs and farmers looking to turn mushroom cultivation into a serious business venture.

9. Growing Mushrooms for Beginners by Sarah Dalziel-Kirchhevel

A gentle, encouraging introduction designed for readers with zero prior experience in mushroom cultivation. The book walks through first projects with simple instructions, helping complete beginners understand basic concepts like sterility, humidity, and fruiting conditions without overwhelming technical jargon. Perfect for curious newcomers who want to try growing their first mushrooms with minimal investment and maximum hand-holding.

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