Introduction

Our All-In-One Grow Tub Bundle is designed to give you a simple, reliable way to observe the full colonisation process from grain to substrate. Whether you're completely new to microscopy or looking for a more efficient setup, this bundle removes most of the preparation and lets you focus on clean technique and steady progress.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to use the kit, what to expect at each stage, and how to maximise your success.

What’s Included

Your bundle contains:

1kg sterilised rye grain bag (with injection port)

2kg pasteurised CVG substrate bag

Premium grow tub with built-in filter holes for perfect gas exchange

Each component plays an important role, and together they create a controlled, balanced environment for safe and clean microscopy work.

1. Prepare a Clean Workspace

Before you begin, set up a simple sterile area:

Wipe surfaces with 70% isopropyl alcohol

Wear gloves and sanitise hands

Close windows and eliminate drafts

Work in still air or in front of a flow hood

A clean environment is the single biggest factor in preventing contamination.

2. Inoculate the Sterile Rye Grain Bag

This is the only part of the kit that requires inoculation.

Steps:

Shake your syringe gently to distribute spores or liquid culture.

Flame-sterilise your needle until it glows red.

Let the needle cool naturally for 5–10 seconds (do not wipe it).

Inject 1–2 ml through the self-healing injection port.

Withdraw the needle slowly and recap instantly.

Label the bag with the strain and date.

After inoculation

Do not open the bag.

Do not shake it yet.

Store at 18–22°C in a dark or dim space.

3. Early Grain Colonisation (What to Expect)

In the first days, you’ll see small white patches forming — this is healthy growth.

Do not:

Use heat mats

Put the bag in direct sunlight

Press or squeeze the grain

Open the bag for any reason

Once the grain reaches 20–30% colonised, you may gently break it up and redistribute it to speed things along — but this step is optional.

When the grain looks 70–100% colonised, you're ready for the next stage.

4. Add Grain to the CVG Inside the Tub

This is where the bundle really shines.

How to do it cleanly:

Sanitise your hands and workspace again.

Open the 2kg CVG bag and empty half into the tub first.

Open the colonised grain bag and spread it evenly across the CVG.

Add the remaining CVG on top.

Mix everything thoroughly with gloved, sanitised hands.

Why this layering method works

It reduces exposure time of the grain to open air, massively lowering contamination risk.

5. Seal the Tub & Allow Full Colonisation

Once everything is mixed and levelled:

Close the tub lid securely

Ensure no tape or objects block the filter holes

Store the tub at 18–22°C

Keep it in a stable location without vibration or direct sunlight

Healthy signs:

Even, bright white colonisation

Condensation droplets inside the tub

Slow, steady growth

Unhealthy signs:

Green, black, blue, grey, or yellow patches

Sour or unpleasant smells

Wet, slimy areas

If contamination appears, remove the tub from your workspace immediately.

6. Consolidation Stage (Don’t Skip This)

After the tub looks fully white, leave it for another 3–7 days.

This allows the mycelium network to strengthen and finish internal colonisation.
Most beginners skip this stage — and it reduces consistency.

7. Tips for Best Results

Liquid culture will colonise faster than a spore syringe

Avoid shaking or compressing the mix once inside the tub

Store away from radiators, heat mats, or windows

Do not stack heavy items on the lid

Label the tub with strain, date, and batch for tracking

FAQ.

How long does the All-In-One Tub take to fully colonise?

Anywhere from 2–4 weeks depending on strain, temperature, and whether you used spores or liquid culture.

Can I open the tub to check progress?

No. Opening introduces contamination. The clear sides allow visual observation without disturbing the environment.

Do I need a heat mat?

No — heat mats usually cause condensation, bacteria issues, and uneven temperatures. Room temperature (18–22°C) is perfect.

Do I mix the bag immediately after inoculation?

No — wait until at least 20–30% colonisation before shaking grain (optional).

Conclusion

The Cap & Culture All-In-One Grow Tub Bundle provides a simple, reliable, and beginner-friendly setup for observing the complete colonisation process. By following clean technique and allowing each stage to develop naturally, you’ll achieve consistent, contamination-free results.

Whether you're exploring microscopy for the first time or refining your workflow, this bundle offers a dependable, controlled environment with minimal preparation required.