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Ventilation piercing is a crucial step in shiitake mushroom cultivation, directly affecting the health of mycelium growth and the effectiveness of bag coloration. Depending on the cultivation phase, different methods such as “small air” and “large air” ventilation are applied. The specific practices are as follows:

1. Early to Mid-Cultivation: Timely “Small Air” Ventilation

During the first 10–25 days after inoculation, the mycelium grows slowly. For bags with sealed inoculation holes, the first ventilation piercing is performed when the mycelium reaches a diameter of 6–8 cm. This process, known as “small air” ventilation, aims to moderately supply oxygen and ensure uniform mycelium growth.

For bags with unsealed or loosely sealed inoculation holes, ventilation can be delayed until the mycelium on one side fully connects, ensuring the best results.

2. Late Cultivation: Increasing Oxygen with “Large Air” Ventilation

Five to seven days after the mycelium fully colonizes the bags, during the vigorous growth phase before coloration, oxygen demand increases significantly. At this stage, “large air” ventilation is conducted by increasing the number and depth of piercings. Each bag typically requires 60–70 holes, with a maximum of 100 holes, to ensure sufficient oxygen supply.

Post-Piercing Management

After piercing, mycelium respiration intensifies, causing a noticeable rise in stack and room temperatures. To prevent overheating, timely stack dispersion and enhanced ventilation are essential. Proper and meticulous piercing practices not only influence the quality of mycelium growth but also directly determine the yield and quality of shiitake mushrooms.