This guide will walk you through making hot n’ fresh CVG casing substrate the way grandma used to.
What you will need:
1 bag Mushyluv microwave substrate
9 cups of water
1 nutrient/calcium powder supplement.
Microwave
Hydration
For consistent results, first fill a milk jug (or similar pitcher) with the required amount of water and mark the water level (to make it easier next time). Then, thoroughly mix in the gypsum powder. Finally, pour the mixture into the microwave substrate bag.
Relaxation
Let your bag(s) sit for the next 30 min to 1 hour. This gives the coco/vermiculite mix time to more evenly absorb the water. You’ll notice the coco expanding as it absorbs moisture. After about an hour, begin kneading your substrate bag. Really get in there and work out those knots. Break up any chunks you run across. And remember a relaxed substrate is a happy substrate. Your substrate bag will have excess water in the bottom until it’s been pasteurized.
Pasteurization
Line up the top of the substrate bag tucking in its side gussets evenly all the way down (as in the demo image to the right). Then, fold the top of the bag forward, around, and under the substrate. The substrate is now sitting on the bag’s opening. The weight of the substrate keeps the bag closed during pasterurization but also allows for water vapor to escape (very important). Place the freshly wrapped substrate bag on a plate and microwave for 20 mins on high.
Note: Only microwave one substrate bag at a time.
Once your substrate bag has finished processing, it will be extremely hot. Let it cool down for at least an hour before you move it. Always wear oven mitts or some kind of heat protection when handling it. If you’re not sure if it is cool enough, just give it another hour to be safe. It will take 4 to 5 hours for the substrate to fully cool to room temperature. We’ve found that letting pasteurized bags cool overnight works well.
Bags can be saved and reused for future projects.
What does freshly pasteurized substrate smell like to you? Leave a comment below.
Enjoy!
Mushyluv
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