The Mushroom Incubator – Electric Fruiting Chamber

The Mushroom Incubator – Electric Fruiting Chamber

The Stewart Essentials Electric Propagator is an easy, reliable heated unit that creates a warm, protected space for your mushroom grow kits while they incubate. Inside, a sealed 22w heating element gives off a gentle, steady warmth, and the clear rigid lid helps hold in heat and moisture.

Getting Set Up

1. Place the propagator on a level surface, somewhere away from draughts and direct sunlight.
2. If you want a bit more humidity, pop a shallow container of water inside. Make sure it’s on a flat spot so nothing can tip.
3. Give the unit a quick wipe down, plug it in, and let it warm for a couple of hours. You’ll notice a soft, even heat inside the chamber.

Colonisation Stage

1. Place your grow kits inside in a single layer so air can move freely around them.
2. A small digital thermometer inside the lid or on the base helps you keep an eye on temperature.
3. Keep the vents closed during incubation. Bright light isn’t needed at this stage, so a dim or normal room is ideal.

Fruiting Stage

1. You can also use the propagator for fruiting if your room temperature and light are suitable. Open the vents fully. If the air feels a bit stale, crack the lid slightly for extra airflow.
2. Mushrooms need fresh air and humidity to fruit well. Mist the inside walls once or twice a day, but avoid drenching the substrate.
3. Place the unit somewhere with indirect daylight, or use a soft LED on a simple 12-hour cycle. If your room is already warm enough, you can unplug the heater and use the propagator as a protective fruiting chamber only.

Tips for Best Results

The built-in heater performs best in a fairly stable room. If you want more control, pairing it with a small plug-in thermostat works well.

Keep an eye on temperature and airflow. Too much heat can slow or damage the mycelium, so avoid placing it right next to radiators or heat sources.

With a good setup, this unit is a solid, dependable tool for both colonising and fruiting your mushroom kits.