Choose shiitake mushroom spawn
Prepare hardwood logs or sawdust blocks
Inoculate the logs or blocks with the spawn
Seal inoculation points if using logs
Keep the substrate moist
Store in a shaded, cool area
Wait for mycelium to colonize the substrate
Initiate fruiting by soaking or cooling as needed
Maintain high humidity and fresh air
Harvest mushrooms when caps are partially open
Cut or twist mushrooms off cleanly
Repeat soaking and fruiting cycles as needed