Growing mushrooms can be a fascinating and fulfilling hobby. However, given the numerous species and strains out there, growing mushrooms can be intimidating, especially for beginners. Don't worry; we've compiled a list of the easiest mushroom strains you can grow.

There are several factors to consider before choosing a mushroom strain to grow. Some of the most important things to consider are availability, low maintenance, colonization speed, mycelia growth speed, and resistance to contamination. There are over 200 mushroom strains belonging to the Psilocybe Cubenis species. This mushroom species contains psilocybin and psilocin, the active compounds responsible for the psychoactive effects popular with magic mushrooms. Each Psilocybe Cubenis mushroom strain is different and requires varied growing conditions.

Some psilocybin strains are more popular and easier to grow than others. The Penis Envy mushroom strain is notoriously difficult to cultivate. To produce this strain requires professionals like mycologists. However, several others, like the Golden Teacher, are easy to grow and don't require professional involvement. You can also cultivate many medicinal and gourmet mushrooms if psychedelics are not your thing. Below are mushroom strains that every beginner should try.

Golden Teacher

The Golden Teacher is a mushroom strain belonging to the Psilocybe cubensis species. This strain is arguably the most famous in the psilocybin family. Some reasons for this popularity are its looks, cultivation ease, and mild effects. The Golden Teacher mushroom is one of the easiest to grow for beginners.

Golden Teacher is well known for its light gold and yellow caps. This mushroom can be grown via spore syringes or prints. You can also develop this strain via growing kits, which is considered one of the easiest methods. While spores are cost-effective, they are considered advanced and suitable for experienced growers. The Golden Teacher mushroom also prefers humid grassland and tropical environments to grow. This mushroom can be grown on dung from cows, goats, and other grazing herbivores.

Ecuadorian

The Ecuadorian is a mushroom strain belonging to the Psilocybe cubensis species. This mushroom strain is ideal for people new to growing mushrooms because it's one of the easiest to grow. Ecuadorian originated in the Andes and not only grows in mountainous regions.

Although relatively easy to grow, the Ecuadorian’s colonization could be faster than others. This mushroom also takes a while to show spore germination signs. However, the Ecuadorian colonizes the substrate very quickly once signs of growth appear. The Ecuadorian mushroom can grow on different substrate types, including grains, compost, straw, or pasteurized dung. The optimal temperatures for Ecuadorian colonization are 84/86 degrees F. At the same time, the ideal fruiting temperatures are 74/78 degrees F.

The Ecuadorian strain is known for its long, thick stalks and caramel caps. The effects of the Ecuadorian are more potent than Golden Teacher. The resistant nature of Ecuadorian mushrooms is another reason why it's one of the easiest to grow.

Ecuadorian mushrooms can be grown via grow kits or from spores, including syringes and prints. Ecuadorian growing kits are widely available; you'll only need water for it to start growing. It should take about 12/15 days before growth to be noticeable.

B+ Psilocybe cubensis

B+ is also another popular mushroom strain belonging to the Psilocybe cubensis species. This mushroom strain has unclear origins. However, it's accepted that it is a hybrid of P. azurescens/ P. cubensis. B+ is known for its high potency levels and social benefits. The fact that it germinates quickly makes it ideal for new growers. B+ also produces a large flush first; subsequent ones are smaller. This mushroom is also resistant to contamination and will fight to survive.

The B+ mushrooms are compatible with different substrates, including dung, straw fruits, and several grains. B+ can quickly be grown from growing kits. This mushroom can also be grown from spores. The ideal colonization temperature is 28 - 30 Celsius. While fruiting temperatures should be between 23 - 26 Celsius.

Alacabenzi

Alacabenzi is another popular psilocybin mushroom strain. This mushroom is popular among growers for its large, symmetric shape. Alacabenzi is a cross between Alabama cubensis and Mexican cubensis. The Alabama strain is reputed for its large size, while the Mexican strain is its strength and spirituality. The blend of these characteristics makes Alacabenzi unique.

Alacabenzi mushrooms are easy to grow and flushes very well. The spores of this mushroom strain are rare but easy to grow. You can also grow this mushroom via growing kits. Alacabenzi mushrooms are used in subtropical climates and thrive in substrates like bovine, equine dung, and enriched soils. The colonization time of Alacabenzi can be extended if the growing conditions are not optimal. However, after the colonization phase, fruiting happens fast. And Alacabenzi mushroom spores grow well and are known for being contamination-resistant.

Z Strain

The Z Strain is arguably the fastest-growing mushroom strain, ideal for new growers. This strain is known for being one of the most aggressive and fastest-growing strains, offering high yields. The Z-Strain, called Z-Cube, is part of the Psilocybe cubensis species. The Z-Strain and Golden Teacher share similar genetic makeups. And both are known for having elegant golden yellow caps. Although the origins of Z-Strain remain unclear, it is widely believed to be an isolation of Golden Teacher.

The Z-Strain is easy to grow since it's known for its aggressive colonization process. This mushroom strain is also resistant to contamination. However, it's advisable to keep your working tools and area sterilized. It's also known to produce flushes in a short time. And you can start by buying spores or grow kits. The Z-Strain grows in subtropical temperatures around 75 F (24 C). This mushroom strain grows well on equine dung, bovine dung, compost, straw, enriched soil, and grain.

Is it Legal to Grow Mushrooms?

Before buying mushroom spores and growing kits, it's advisable to read up on your local and federal laws regarding mushrooms. Psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in most countries, including the United States. However, spores and prints are legal and can be grown for research. Government positions on psilocybin are changing, so it's essential to keep abreast with the latest laws.