Grey Oyster
Pleurotus ostreatus
A productive, slightly more heat-tolerant oyster strain that suits a wide range of conditions. A reliable choice for beginners and small growers.
Growing requirements at a glance
- Scientific name
- Pleurotus ostreatus
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Colonisation temp
- 20 to 24°C
- Fruiting temp
- 15 to 21°C
- Substrate
- Straw or supplemented sawdust
- Flavour
- Mild, savoury
Overview
Grey oyster is a hardy, productive strain of Pleurotus ostreatus. It is close to blue oyster but tolerates a little more warmth, which makes it a dependable year-round choice in many regions.
Growing conditions
Colonise at 20 to 24°C and fruit at about 15 to 21°C. Grey oyster fruits well on pasteurised straw and on supplemented sawdust, with humidity of 85 to 95% and steady fresh air. Good airflow keeps the caps broad and the stems short.
In the kitchen
Grey oyster has a mild, savoury taste and a firm texture that browns nicely in a hot pan. It works in curries, stir-fries, and soups. Cook it fully before eating.
Grower tips
It is forgiving of small mistakes, which makes it a good training species. Harvest the whole cluster as the caps flatten, then rest and rehydrate the block for the next flush.
