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AGAR MASTERCLASS

Master the Cornerstone of Mushroom Cultivation

A participant working in a sterile environment with agar plates and tools.

The Afrifungi Agar Masterclass is a focused, hands-on training designed to teach participants the essential skills needed to work with agar in mycology. As the foundation of mushroom cultivation, agar enables the isolation, maintenance, and propagation of fungal cultures, making it a vital tool for any serious grower.

This masterclass equips participants with the confidence and expertise to perform agar work, setting the stage for advanced cultivation practices and successful strain management.

What you’ll learn

The Role of Agar in Cultivation

Understand how agar supports mushroom cultivation and strain development.

Agar Plate Preparation

Learn to prepare, pour, and manage sterile agar plates.

Culture Isolation and Maintenance

Gain proficiency in isolating, preserving, and propagating fungal cultures.

Contamination Management

Identify, troubleshoot, and address contamination issues effectively.

Advanced Techniques

Master strain selection, cloning, and genetic preservation for optimal cultivation results.

Who is this workshop for?

Intermediate and Advanced Growers

Individuals looking to refine their cultivation practices and enhance their technical skills.

Farmers Expanding into Mycology

Agriculturalists incorporating mushroom farming into their operations who need a deeper understanding of fungal strain management.

Science Enthusiasts

Curious individuals passionate about the technical aspects of fungi and eager to explore laboratory techniques.

Sustainability Advocates

Those interested in mastering tools that support eco-friendly and regenerative farming practices.

Why register for The Agar Masterclass?

The Agar Masterclass is more than just a training—it’s a gateway to mastering the critical tools and techniques of mushroom cultivation. Whether you’re looking to grow your own mushrooms, scale up a business, or delve into the science of mycology, this course provides the foundation you need to succeed.

Enquire about this Masterclass

Key Topics Covered

1

Introduction to Agar Work

What is agar, and why is it essential for mycology?
Overview of tools, materials, and safety considerations.
2

Preparing Agar Media

Step-by-step guide to selecting, mixing, and sterilising agar.
Tips for pouring clean, uniform plates.
3

Aseptic Technique

Maintaining sterility in your workspace.
Proper use of laminar flow hoods, gloves, and sterilisation tools.
4

Culturing Techniques

Spore germination and isolation.
Tissue cloning from mushroom fruit bodies.
Transferring and expanding cultures on agar.
5

Identifying and Troubleshooting Contaminants

Common contaminants (molds, bacteria) and how to address them.
Best practices for preventing contamination.
6

Strain Selection and Preservation

Techniques for selecting superior strains for cultivation.
Long-term storage methods for preserving genetic material.
7

Practical Applications

Using agar for spawn production and substrate inoculation.
Integrating agar techniques into larger cultivation workflows.

Key Takeaways

  • Proficiency in agar preparation, culturing, and strain isolation.
  • The ability to manage and prevent contamination effectively.
  • Practical knowledge to integrate agar techniques into small- or large-scale mushroom farming.
  • Confidence to apply these skills independently or in professional settings.
  • Take home everything produced during the masterclass for your own use.

Booking information

  • Masterclass Fee: R2 500 per person
  • Group Size: Limited to ensure personalised attention and interaction.
Enquire about this Masterclass

Ready to Take Your Mycology Skills to the Next Level?

Whether you’re looking to refine your techniques, scale your mushroom cultivation, or explore advanced applications of fungi, our Courses at the AfriFungi Academy are designed to equip you with expert knowledge and hands-on experience.

Our courses cover everything from agar work and spawn production to substrate design and commercial cultivation, ensuring you gain the confidence and skills to succeed in your mycology journey.

Enquire now and take the next step in your fungi journey!

What people are saying about Afrifungi

“

Working with Matt has been an unbelievably exciting and amazing experience. We have learnt so much and look forward to more guidance from him as he mentors us through our food garden adventure. We are so happy and grateful to have him share his experience and wisdom with us.

NadineMvuhyu Farm
“

Really enjoyed the hands on learning the basics of what is an enoooooormous world.

Hugh Fraser
“

This was an extremely interesting introduction to fungi, learnt that fungi is pretty amazing... Was specially awesome to get practical experience in inoculating tree stump with mycelium to attempt to grow mushrooms...

Dale Lambert
“

Something I've looked into before and have wanted to try for sometime now. Was a really great experience, Matt and Sven are very knowledgable on the subject. The energy was infectious and the folks who joined on the day were a pleasure to meet.

Greg de Gidts
“

Matt & Sven give an excellent overview + introduction to the world of mushrooms, and inoculating a tree stump for years of home-grown mushrooms is a really fun way to spend an afternoon.

Soleil Jones