Thoughts on vermicomposting mycelium?

I started growing oyster mushrooms in my house this year, and the results were great, but now I'm trying to figure out what I can do with the mycelium left over from the harvest.

For context, I'm doing this all in an apartment, using 5 gallon buckets to hold the mushrooms.



I've gotten four flushes from this one, and I know that's how many people say occur before it stops. So I'm wondering, is mycelium good for compost? could I spread it around my garden, or maybe break it down for something else?

I also have an indoor vermicomposter, and I'm somewhat curious if the worms will eat mycelium, or if it will take over.

Hi Sienna,

Welcome to Permies.

Used mycelium substrate is a GREAT composter! When I was taking a Master Gardener course, as soon as people found out I want to grow mushrooms many of them were asking for my spent substrate.

I haven't fed substrate to worms yet, but as I build up my mushroom and worm production that is my plan. From what I've read it is great for worms.

I've also heard of spent substrate fed to worms actually growing mushrooms, which can also be used as worm food. I'm excited about trying!

Thank you for the welcome John!

Also, thanks Chris- I had no idea. Maybe I'll split my colony, scatter a bit in the worm bin and save the rest for the garden. Growing mushrooms for the worms just sounds great

Welcome Sienna! I can’t think of a better compost ingredient than mycelium.

Hello Folks,
Has anyone had success adding spent Mycellium Substrate to an outdoor compost bin?
I have a Mushroom grower/seller at our local farmers market.
I have been intentionally composting for 2 years.
Sawdust, vegetables and greens, kitchen scraps, chicken poop, coffee grinds, and beer-spent grains.
I have a bizzion red wriggles in my cooking bin.
Question - is the Mycellium Substrate a good addition?