TubTek: The Set-and-Forget Mushroom Growing Method

Mushroom cultivation has come a long way from complicated lab setups and daily maintenance routines. For modern home growers, TubTek offers a streamlined, reliable method that delivers consistent results with minimal effort.

At Mycelio, we’ve perfected TubTek so you can enjoy high-quality harvests without the constant worry of misting, fanning, or adjusting environmental conditions. This method is ideal for busy cultivators who still want professional-grade results—and it’s accessible to complete beginners as well as seasoned growers.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly what TubTek is, why it works so well, and how to prepare your own monotub for a successful grow. We’ll also cover the tools, techniques, and tips that will help you get the most out of your setup.

What Is TubTek?

TubTek is a monotub-based growing method designed to be a “set and forget” system. You simply mix colonized grain spawn and bulk substrate directly into a monotub—usually a 54-quart Sterilite tub—and then leave it to do its thing.

Once prepared, the monotub is self-sufficient thanks to its built-in fresh air exchange (FAE) ports and the natural humidity retention of the substrate. There’s no daily maintenance like spraying or fanning. You prepare it once, set it in place, and wait for nature to take over.

The result? A low-effort, high-yield mushroom grow that’s perfect for home cultivation.

Why Choose TubTek Over Other Methods?

While there are multiple ways to grow mushrooms—such as fruiting in bags (BagTek), greenhouses, or Martha tents—TubTek offers several unique advantages:

Set-and-Forget Simplicity – No need for constant monitoring or manual misting.
High Yield Potential – Larger grow space means bigger flushes.
Better Airflow Management – Built-in FAE ports provide fresh air without risking contamination from excessive handling.
Humidity Stability – The closed environment keeps moisture levels ideal throughout the grow.
Beginner-Friendly – Simple enough for first-time growers, yet efficient for commercial-style runs.

At Mycelio, we often recommend TubTek for anyone who wants an easy, reliable way to grow mushrooms at home—especially if you have space for a monotub setup.

Required Materials for TubTek

Before you start, gather everything you’ll need. We recommend the following setup for a 54-quart monotub, which is the standard size for most home grows:

54-Quart Sterilite Tub (clear walls help monitor progress) – Purchase Here.
2-Inch Step Bit (for drilling air exchange holes)
Gloves (nitrile preferred)
Face Mask (to minimize contamination risk)
70% Isopropyl Alcohol (best concentration for sanitizing)
Mist Bottle (for alcohol application)
Dawn Dish Soap (or similar mild detergent)
Paper Towels
Micropore Tape (for covering air exchange holes)
Liquid Culture (to colonize your grain spawn bag) – We recommend Pioppino, which grows great in tubs.
Colonized Grain Spawn (fully colonized, 100% white mycelium) – Purchase Here.
Bulk Substrate (such as CVG—coco coir, vermiculite, and gypsum) – Purchase Here.

Step-by-Step TubTek Guide (Mycelio’s Method)

We’ve refined this process so it works seamlessly with Mycelio’s grain spawn and bulk substrates. Follow these steps exactly for best results.

Step 1: Create Air Exchange Holes

Using the 2-inch step bit, drill six holes in your monotub.
- Placement: Two on each long side, one on each short side.
- Height: Position holes about 6–7 inches from the bottom—this aligns with the surface of your substrate for optimal airflow.
These holes are the FAE ports that will keep oxygen levels right for fruiting while preventing excessive evaporation.

Step 2: Clean and Sanitize

Wash the entire tub with Dawn dish soap to remove dust, debris, and oils.
Rinse thoroughly and dry with paper towels.
Lightly mist the interior of the tub with 70% isopropyl alcohol to sanitize.
Once dry, cover each drilled hole with micropore tape. This provides filtered airflow that protects your substrate from contaminants.

Step 3: Prepare Your Spawn and Substrate

Ensure your grain spawn is fully colonized—solid white with no uncolonized grains visible.
Wait an additional 4–5 days after full colonization to allow the mycelium to consolidate and strengthen.
Gently break apart the colonized grain bags.
Add 2–3 bags of colonized grain spawn (3 lbs each) into your bulk substrate bag.
Seal the substrate bag with a pinch or rubber band and mix thoroughly until the grain is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Fill the Tub

Transfer the fully mixed grain and substrate into the monotub.
Use a clean metal spatula to gently level and pack the mixture, filling any gaps or grooves.
A flat, even surface ensures uniform colonization and better fruiting conditions.

Step 5: Set It and Forget It

Place the tub in an area with ambient room light (indirect sunlight or a small grow light works well).
Keep the temperature between 72–75°F and room humidity around 30–50%.
Avoid direct fans or heat sources.
The FAE ports will regulate airflow automatically, and the moisture in your substrate will maintain perfect humidity—no misting or fanning needed.

How Long Does TubTek Take?

Once you’ve spawned your tub, you can expect:

10–21 days to see the first pins (small mushroom beginnings)
5–7 more days for those pins to develop into full-sized mushrooms ready for harvest
Multiple flushes (harvests) from the same tub with proper care

Common TubTek Mistakes to Avoid

Even though TubTek is simple, these are the most common pitfalls we see:

Using Uncolonized or Weak Spawn – Always ensure your grain is fully colonized before mixing.
Overhandling the Tub – Every time you open or move the tub, you risk contamination.
Improper Hole Placement – Incorrect airflow can cause poor growth or excessive drying.
Skipping the Consolidation Period – Letting your grain sit 4–5 days after full colonization improves yield and reduces contamination risk.

TubTek vs. BagTek: Which Should You Choose?

BagTek – Great for smaller grows or limited space; fruit mushrooms directly in a filter patch bag.
TubTek – Best for larger yields and lower daily maintenance; ideal if you have space for a monotub setup.

At Mycelio, we offer both kits so you can choose the method that matches your goals.

Why Mycelio Recommends TubTek

We’ve tested multiple growing methods over the years, and TubTek remains one of our top picks for consistent, high-quality yields. It strikes the perfect balance between low maintenance and high output, making it a favorite among both hobbyists and small-scale commercial growers.

When you combine TubTek with Mycelio’s premium grain spawn and carefully prepared substrates, you give your mycelium the best possible environment to thrive. That’s why our customers report fewer contamination issues and bigger flushes compared to generic setups.

Final Thoughts

TubTek is a game-changer for mushroom cultivators who want professional results without daily upkeep. With just a few tools, some patience, and high-quality materials from Mycelio, you can grow abundant mushrooms in a completely self-contained environment.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to try your first monotub or an experienced grower wanting a reliable bulk method, TubTek delivers.

Ready to start your TubTek journey?
Browse Mycelio’s Grain Spawn and Bulk Substrates to get everything you need for a successful grow.

TubTek: The Set-and-Forget Mushroom Growing Tek