How Long Do Mushroom Spores Last?

Mushroom spores can last between 6-12 months, depending on the storing process. Sometimes, if the spores are kept in utmost care, they can last anywhere from 2-5 years.

What Are Mushroom Spores?

Mushroom spores contain all of the necessary ingredients to form a new fungus. After the spore has been released and settles on the forest floor, it starts sending out hyphae to establish the fungus and gather nutrients.

Once the spore has sent out its hyphae, they will meet up with the hyphae of another mushroom. Following the beginning of the reproduction process, the mushrooms form the structures of a “fruiting body” responsible for producing and dispersing spores.

The button stage is the first form of this fruiting body. What starts as a tiny button can grow into a large mushroom in a short amount of time.

How Long Do Spore Syringes Last?

A few factors can determine expiration date here, such as quality of the container and temperature. Typically, spores in a laboratory-grade syringe left at room temperature can last up to 30 days. One recent study showed a single mycelium spore staying dormant for more than 250 years, so any timeline is possible.

Storing syringes in a cold, dark place could significantly extend their shelf life. When preserved using a fridge, syringes filled with spores can last between 4-12 months long. Time can be extended by preventing light exposure and always maintaining a constant temperature.

How Long Do Mushroom Spores Last In A Syringe?

Spores are placed in syringes because of convenience. Spore syringes are easy to use and are typically utilized when selling spores. Ensure these spores are kept in cool and dry places at all times.

If kept in favorable conditions, spores may last up to 10 years. It is, however, recommended to use the spores within the timeframe of 1-6 months.

How To Store Mushroom Spores

The storing process is pretty straightforward when it comes to mushroom spores:

• Sterilize the syringe with an alcohol wipe.
• Secure the protective cap to prevent the solution from leaking.
• Place the syringe in a sterilized sealable plastic bag, removing most air upon sealing.
• Store the syringe in a fridge, where it will not be disturbed.

Do Not Freeze Mushroom Spores

There is a common misconception that storing syringes in the freezer is okay to do. Mycelium seeds will not die when exposed to extreme temperatures, they will instead go into a dormant phase.

Freezing mushroom spores is a bad idea since ice crystals form, which ultimately disrupts the structure of the spores. While some fungi strains can survive, freezing spores is never recommended.

Do Mushroom Spores Go Bad?

Mushroom spores can go bad when they are not appropriately preserved. When storing these spores, it’s crucial to make sure they are not exposed to heat or direct sunlight.

If these spores go bad, they will not germinate. Keep the spores in a dry and dark environment to give them the longest shelf life possible.

*Please note in 47 out of 50 states, psychedelic mushrooms are perfectly legal. Users can buy, sell and own psilocybin mushroom spores for research purposes only. However, it is illegal in nearly all jurisdictions to cultivate magic mushrooms.

Psilocybin spores are never to be cultivated. The only exception is in New Mexico, where it remains legal to grow mushrooms as long as no steps are taken to preserve the mushrooms. Make sure to familiarize yourself with your local psychedelic spore laws before placing an order. Psilocybin mushroom spores are currently illegal in California, Georgia and Idaho.