Golden Oyster growing on a birch log

Suitability of Tree Species for Growing Mushrooms on Logs

Difficulty Ratings for Mushroom Strains
Log Production

Difficulty Scale 1-10
1 = Good for Beginners; 10 = Very Difficult to Cultivate

  • Shiitake: 1
  • Oyster: 2
  • Italian Oyster: 3
  • Lion's Mane: 4

Growing mushrooms outdoors on logs? Most mushrooms have preferred tree species that will help increase consistency and yields. Use this page to understand which types of wood are best for the mushroom strain you wish to grow.

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Tree Species Suitability for Growing Mushrooms
key Key*   Recommended   Suitable   Not recommended
Shiitake Oyster Italian Oyster Lion's Mane
Ailanthus  
Alder
Ash  
Aspen
Basswood  
Beech
Birch
Black Walnut
Box Elder
Buckeye
Cherry
Chestnut
Chinese Tallow
Cottonwood
Elm
Eucalyptus
Hackberry
Hemlock
Hickory
Hophornbeam
Hornbeam
Maple, Hard
Maple, Soft
Mimosa
Mulberry
Oaks
Palm
Peach
Pear
Pecan
Pines
Sassafrass
Sweetgum
Sycamore
Tuliptree
Tupelo
Willow
key Key*   Recommended   Suitable   Not recommended
* Data courtesy of North Spore. Blanks indicate unknown or untested.

Note: for most mushrooms, conifers or softwoods should be avoided.

Note: we do not recommend growing Wine Cap or Almond Agaricus on logs.

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