pH is a good indicator of a well-balanced substrate as it is a direct reflection of the nutrient content of the substrate. High pH substrates are alkaline in nature and tend to be lacking in nutrients, while low pH substrates aid with enzyme “breakdown,” making it easier to absorb the nutrients from it. Mushrooms prefer a slightly acidic substrate with a pH level of 5 to 6.5. This is because the acidic nature of the substrate encourages nutrient uptake. If the pH is lower than this, then the acidity risks dissolving the mycelium, so be careful not to let it fall too low. You can purchase a pH
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