Shiitake block systems include development beyond initial colonisation, including a maturation and browning sequence. Learn the appearance and handling criteria for your strain and block process. A block that looks colonised is not automatically ready for the next fruiting intervention. Readiness depends on its developmental history as well as appearance.
Record bag opening, browning progress and any treatment dates for each lot. Compare representative blocks across shelves and note damaged packaging or abnormal patches. Where a supplier's instructions and a general guide differ, identify whether they refer to the same strain, substrate and production stage before deciding which method applies.