What are the key points of the short-log cultivation method for reishi?

(1) Log treatment: select suitable tree species, fell during the dormant season, cut into 1-1.2 m lengths, and pile up to ferment for 30-40 days.

(2) Inoculation and mycelial growth: inoculate when the air temperature stabilizes at around 20°C (about April to May). After inoculation, stack the logs in a "well" pattern for mycelial growth. After 10-15 days, when the mycelium spreads around the inoculation holes, lay the inoculated logs horizontally on the ground and cover them with sandy soil or wet sand. During the sand-covering period, spray water appropriately to keep the sandy soil moist.

(3) Shortening and burying the logs: one month after covering with sand, cut the inoculated logs into short sections of 10-15 cm, stack them in a cool, damp place, and keep the relative air humidity at 85%-90%. If the humidity is insufficient, mist the air to increase humidity. When white aerial mycelium of reishi appears on the cut surfaces, move the short inoculated logs under tree shade or into a separately built shade shed, and bury them vertically in the raised beds, with the part buried in the soil accounting for 2/3-3/4 of the total length. During the log-burying period, keep the relative air humidity at around 90%, spray water frequently, and keep the soil moist. Generally, primordia can grow 2 months after inoculation, the fruiting bodies take about 50-60 days to mature, and about 4 months are needed from inoculation to harvest.