How to Block Text Messages

Stop those annoying text messages

Unwanted texts can be annoying and unexpectedly costly, especially if your data plan doesn't allow unlimited texts. Nip the problem in the bud before your next billing statement! You can block unwanted texts using your phone, through your carrier, or using a third-party app. There's even a number you can report spam messages to. This wikiHow teaches you how to block unwanted texts on Android, iPhone, and third-party apps, and how to report them.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• There are multiple ways that you can block a text, depending on a few different factors.
• The most common way on Android to block a text is to tap the three-dot menu in a spam text and Block number.
• On an iPhone, the most common method of blocking a text is to tap the phone number in the text and tap Block contact.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]On iPhone

1. Open the Messages app. It's the app that has a green icon with a speech bubble. Tap the icon to open the Messages app.
   
2. Tap a message from a user you want to block. If you have been receiving unwanted messages, they should be in your list of messages.
   
3. Tap the user's image above the phone number. Tap it once and a small menu should show.
   
   • This is the GUI on the top of your screen.
4. Tap after the small menu shows. This icon looks like a lowercase "i" inside a circle.
   
5. Scroll down and tap . This will block the user from sending text messages, as well as making phone calls to your number or contacting you through FaceTime.^[1]
   
   • Alternatively, launch the Settings app. This method allows you to block texts from a sender who's in your contacts, but not in your text history. In the Settings app, scroll down and select "Phone," then "Blocked." Select "Add New." Now, find the person you'd like to block in your contacts list. Select this person and they'll be blocked!

[Edit]On Android

1. Open your text message app. Tap the app icon that resembles a speech bubble. Tap the messages app icon to open your message inbox.
   
   • This works for Messages by Google, also known as Google Messages.
2. Tap and hold the conversation you want to block. Just tapping it will open the message instead, so you'll need to return to the main page of your texts and try again.
   
   • Your phone will vibrate and show that you've selected the conversation.
3. Tap . This three-dot menu icon is in the top right corner of your screen and will open a menu.
   
4. Tap . That number will no longer be able to text you.^[2]
   
   • To unblock a contact, tap ☰ > Spam & blocked, and tap x next to the number you want to unblock.

[Edit]On a Samsung Galaxy

1. Open your text message inbox. It typically has an icon that resembles a speech bubble. Tap the messages app icon to open your message inbox.
   
2. Tap . It's the last option in the menu that appears when you tap the icon with three dots.
   
   • The menu options may vary on different mobile carriers and older Samsung Galaxy phones.
3. Tap the name or number that sent the text. It's at the top of your screen with a downwards-pointing arrow.
   
   • Tapping this will expand the menu at the top of the page.
4. Tap . That number is now no longer able to contact you.^[3]
   
   • If you want to unblock that number, go to Phone > More options (three vertical dots) > Settings > Block Numbers and tap Delete next to the numbers you want to unblock.

[Edit]Through Your Carrier

1. Open your wireless carrier's web page or mobile app. Most mobile carriers have the option to block text messages or calls on their website or mobile app. Go to the following websites for your carrier.
   
   • T-Mobile/Sprint: https://account.t-mobile.com or open the My T-Mobile app.
   • Verizon: https://www.verizonwireless.com/my-verizon/ or open the Verizon Smart Family app.
   • Tracfone: Dial to "611611".^[4]
   • AT&T: Open the AT&T Call Protect app.
     • AT&T Call Protect is available through the Google Play Store on Android or App Store on iPhone.
2. Login as the primary account holder. Enter the username and password associated with your account from your wireless carrier. If you have a family or group plan, sign in using the primary account holder's username and password.
   
3. Locate the options to block text messages. The layout of each carrier's website or mobile app will be different. Use the following options to locate options to block text messages.
   
   • T-Mobile/Sprint: Navigate to http://t-mo.co/profileblocking and click Message Blocking.^[5]
   • Verizon: Click Plan and then click Block. Then click Block calls & messages.^[6]
   • AT&T: Tap Block.^[7]
4. Select a device to block numbers on. If your account has more than one phone, you will need to select which line you want to block numbers on.
   
   • Your carrier may require you to add an additional feature to your account in order to block text messages.
5. Select a blocking option. Many carriers have different options for blocking numbers. You may be able to block all messages, block inbound or outbound messages, block picture messages, or block individual numbers.
   
6. Click or tap the option to add a number to your blocked list. Depending on the carrier's website or app, this may be a button that says Block Number, or Add or a plus (+) sign.
   
7. Enter the phone number you want to block. This blocks the number from being able to text you. The recipient will not be notified that they have been blocked.
   
   • You may also be able to select a number from your contacts or call log.
8. Click or tap . This adds the number to your list of blocked contacts. They will not be able to message you.
   
9. Call your carrier's tech support. If you need further assistance with blocking a number, your carrier's tech support line should be able to assist you. Contact your wireless carrier at the following numbers:^[8]
   
   • AT&T: 1-800-331-0500
   • T-Mobile/Sprint: 1-877-453-1304
   • Verizon: 1-800-922-0204

[Edit]Using a Third-Party App

1. Open the App Store or Google Play Store. If you're using an iPhone, tap the App Store icon. It's a blue icon with a capital "A". If you are using an Android, tap the Google Play Store icon. It's the app that has an icon of a colorful triangle.
   
   • Warning: Many third-party apps that block text messages collect user data to sell or use for marketing purposes.
2. Tap the tab (iPhone only). If you are using iPhone, tap the search tab in the lower-right corner.
   
3. Type in the search bar. On Android, the search bar is in the green banner at the top of the screen. On iPhone, the search bar is in the center of the screen. This displays a list of apps that match your search.
   
   • Hiya is one of many apps that are able to block text messages. Other apps include SMS Blocker, Blacklist, Call Blocker, and Text Blocker.
4. Tap or next to Hiya. Hiya has a white icon with a blue, purple, and pink image that resembles a phone. This installs Hiya.
   
5. Open Hiya. You can open Hiya by tapping the Hiya icon on your home screen or apps menu. You can also tap Open in the Google Play Store or App Store.
   
6. Tap the checkbox and tap . This indicates that you agree to the terms of service and data policy and then tap Get Started.
   
   • You may be asked to grant Hiya certain permissions. If you are asked if you want to allow Hiya to be your default phone caller app, make calls, and access your contacts list, tap Allow.
7. Tap . It's the second tab at the bottom of the screen. It's below an icon that has a circle with a line through it.
   
8. Tap . It's the first option in the list.
   
   • Alternatively, you can select Recent calls or text, and Choose from contacts to select a number from your recent text messages or contacts.
9. Enter the phone number you want to block. This blocks the number from being able to text you. The recipient will not be notified that they have been blocked.
   
10. Tap . It's in the lower-right corner of the menu in the center of the screen. This blocks the number.
    
    • If you don't like Hiya, try Spam Shield for Android or TextKiller for iPhone.

[Edit]Managing Spam

1. Don't reply to unknown spam. Some text message ads are sent by automated programs designed to send ads to random phone numbers. In this case, replying to the ad (even just with the word "STOP") can potentially make the problem worse. A reply signifies to the program that there's an actual human at your number, so it will continue to send ads. If you get text spam from a source you don't recognize, ignore it. If it persists, try one of the other methods.
   
2. Report spam. Most US carriers allow you to report spam messages free-of-charge. To report a spam message, copy the message text and send it to 7726 ("SPAM.") This spam reporting service is operated by the GSM Association, a trade association for major mobile operators. By reporting the spam, you're helping to eliminate an annoyance for yourself and other cell phone users.
   
   • Other countries use different spam reporting numbers. In France, the number is 33700.^[9] In India, the number is 1909.^[10]

[Edit]Tips

• You can also block Spam Likey calls.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Know if Someone Is Lying in a Text

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201229
2. ↑ https://support.google.com/messages/answer/7029021?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid&oco=1&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid&oco=1
3. ↑ https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00062352/
4. ↑ https://support.tracfone.com/expresshelp/general-information/how-do-i-block-unwanted-calls
5. ↑ https://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-1712
6. ↑ https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-200867/
7. ↑ https://www.att.com/esupport/article.html#!/wireless/KM1147710?gsi=n99qd7
8. ↑ http://lifehacker.com/5750717/how-do-i-block-unwanted-text-messages-on-my-cellphone
9. ↑ http://www.pcworld.com/article/192469/article.html
10. ↑ http://www.appdunia.com/2013/03/india-against-spam-forward-unwanted-smscalls-to-trai-on-1909/

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How to Remove Acrylic Nails

A simple guide to removing acrylics without destroying your nails

Let’s get one thing out of the way: The best way to remove acrylic nails is by visiting a nail tech. That said, if you’re here, you probably can’t get into the salon for one reason or another, but those acrylic nails need to come off, STAT. And if you’re going to do it yourself, we’re going to help you do it right. We’ve put together a handy guide to removing acrylic nails with acetone, dental floss, and an electric nail filer, so you can free your fingers at home. Grab some nail clippers and a filer, because today, you’re your own nail tech.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Clip your nails and wrap them in acetone-soaked cotton balls and tin foil. Then, wait 30 minutes before gently pulling them off.
• Loosen the base of the nail with a pick, then work a length of dental floss between the acrylic and natural nail until the acrylic nail comes free.
• Use an electric nail filer to file away the polish, color, and the acrylic nail itself. Then use a hand-filer to finish the job.
• Moisturize your nails with argan oil, cuticle cream, and moisturizer to help your nails recover from the acrylics.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Acetone

1. Use nail clippers to trim the tips of your acrylic nails short. Cut off as much of the acrylic as you can—the more you can cut off now, the easier the rest of the process will be.^[1] If cutting is difficult due to the thickness of the nails, use a coarse nail file to file them. Make sure you don't cut any of your nail bed.
   
   
2. File the topcoat and nail polish off of your nails. Use a fine-grade buffer or a nail file to remove as much product as possible.^[2] Use long strokes that run the length of the nail, and keep filing until the product is removed or the smooth, shiny layer gives way to a more matte surface.^[3]
   
   
   • Clipping your nails will help the acetone dissolve the acrylics more easily.
   • This may take some time, depending on the size of your nails and how much product is on them, so sit tight and persevere.
   • Take care not to file or damage your natural nail as you do this.
3. Soak 10 cotton balls in acetone. Fill a medium glass bowl halfway with acetone. Then, drop 10 cotton balls into the acetone, making sure each is completely saturated.^[4]
   
   
   • Acetone is highly flammable and produces potent fumes. Make sure the room is well ventilated, and keep the acetone away from heat or sources of flames.
4. Cut out 10 squares of foil that are . While the cotton balls soak, cut out 10 squares of tinfoil. Make each square large enough to wrap completely around your finger. They don’t have to be neat!^[5]
   
   
5. Apply petroleum jelly to the skin surrounding your nails. Acetone is hard on skin, so it's important to protect your fingers. Rub a generous amount of petroleum jelly on the tips of your fingers and the cuticles–even up to the first knuckle, if you’re feeling especially cautious.^[6] Be careful not to apply the petroleum jelly to the nails themselves, which may hinder removal.
   
   
   • Use a cotton-tipped wooden applicator if you need help applying the petroleum jelly more precisely.
6. Secure the cotton balls to your fingers with tin foil. Place a cotton ball in the center of a tin foil square, then place the 2 together on top of a nail, with the cotton ball touching the nail. Then, wrap the tin foil around your nail to secure the cotton ball. Repeat this for each nail.^[7]
   
   
   • You can use a non-plastic tape to fasten the cotton balls if you don't have aluminum foil–acetone will dissolve plastic tape!
   • You can also simply soak your nails in a bowl of acetone for 30 minutes if you know that acetone doesn't irritate your skin.
7. Take the foil bundles off your nails after 30 minutes. Unwrap the tinfoil and gently but firmly pull the cotton ball and acrylic away from your natural nail. The acetone has loosened the acrylic from your nail, and the acrylic nail will come away without much fuss.^[8]
   
   
   • If you soaked your acrylic nails in the bowl of acetone, gently pry the nails off using an orange wood stick.
   • If the acrylic nails are still firmly stuck, repeat the process and let your nails soak for another 20 minutes and attempt to remove them again.
8. Sand off the leftover acrylic and shape your nails with the nail filer. The acrylic will be soft from the acetone bath, so take the opportunity to buff the rest of it away, until there’s no more residue left on your nails. Then, use nail clippers and a nail file to smooth the sharp edges and round out your nails. After, buff your nails lightly with a fine-grade nail buffer, moving from the base of the nail to the tip, to give them a nice, smooth sheen.^[9]
   
   
   • If the acrylic begins to harden again while you're buffing, use a cotton ball soaked in acetone to dampen it.
   • To avoid damaging your nails, file in one direction only, and avoid using a back-and-forth sawing motion.
   • The top few layers of your nails may have been removed with the acrylic. Buff and file gently so as not to tear or damage them further when file and buff them.
9. Wash your hands and apply lotion to moisturize them. Acetone can cause skin to become extremely dry, so restore a little moisture to your fingers. Wash your hands with warm water and mild hand soap. Then, dry your hands and rub them with body oil or a moisturizing lotion. Rub the moisturizer into your nails, cuticles, and skin to keep them hydrated and to help them recover from the acrylics.^[10]
   
   

[Edit]Dental Floss Pick

1. Pry up the bottom edge of an acrylic nail with a floss pick. Use a floss pick or a cuticle stick to gently lift the edge of the nail closest to your cuticle. Insert the pick between the acrylic nail and your natural nail, and loosen as much of the acrylic nail as possible.^[11]
   
   
   • When using this method, work slowly and carefully. Removing acrylic nails without chemical assistance (like acetone) may cause damage to your nails.
   • Soak your nails in acetone using the acetone method for easier removal with dental floss.
2. Slide the floss under the loosened edge until the nail comes off. Use the floss end of the pick, and slowly and gently move the floss back and forth in a sawing motion. As you work, apply slight pressure in the direction away from your cuticle in order to work the floss along the underside of the acrylic nail. Continue this way until the acrylic nail comes off, and repeat the process for each nail.^[12]
   
   
   • Use another finger to hold the base of the nail in place so that it doesn’t wiggle uncomfortably as you floss it away.
   • You can also use standard floss, but you may need a partner to help you.
3. Buff your nails and apply Argan oil to restore them. Use a buffer to clean up your natural nails and remove any acrylic residue. Then, apply Argan oil, cuticle cream, or moisturizer in order to strengthen your nails.^[13]
   
   

[Edit]Electric Nail Filer

1. Clip the acrylic nails as short as possible with a nail clipper. Use the edge of the clipper to cut into the edge of the nail. Cut as close to your natural nail as possible, and then work your way across the acrylic nail until the tip of the nail is removed.^[14]
   
   
   • In many cases, the acrylic nail will snap off as soon as you make your first cut with the nail clipper.
2. File away the top coat and polish with the electric filer. Set your electric nail filer to about 12,000 rpm (rotations per minute). Then, carefully lower the filing bit to the base of the nail, just below the cuticle. Graze the filer across the surface of the nail, so that a thin layer of polish, color, or whatever product is applied to the nail is sanded away. Continue to do this, following the contour of the nail.^[15]
   
   
   • Move the filer in one direction–towards you–as opposed to moving it back and forth across the nail.
3. Use light, rapid back-and-forth motions to remove the acrylic. Once you’ve filed away all the product applied to the acrylic nail, begin to make swift, gentle, brushstroke-like movement across the surface of the nail to remove as much acrylic as possible. When you begin to see the natural nail beneath, reduce the filer’s rpm to about 7,000, and continue to remove as much acrylic as possible.^[16]
   
   
   • Once the nail is suitably thin, clip the excess acrylic off the tip of the nail.
   • If at any time you become uncomfortable using the electric filer, opt to use the acetone method to soak off the rest of the nail. It’ll be much easier with much of the acrylic removed already.
4. Use a manual filer to remove the rest of the acrylic. Once the bulk of the acrylic has been removed, set the electric filer aside, and use a hand-filer to remove the rest. Use rapid, back-and-forth movement across the entire surface of the nail, until the acrylic has been completely removed and your natural nail is entirely exposed.^[17]
   
   
5. Wash and moisturize your hands. Wash your hands with warm water and mild hand soap to remove any dust or residue. Then, dry your hands thoroughly and apply body oil, argan oil or a moisturizing lotion. Rub the moisturizer into your nails, cuticles, and skin to keep them hydrated.^[18]

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Don't put acetone in a plastic bowl. The acetone will deteriorate the plastic, and may even spill out.

[Edit]Warnings

• Acetone is extremely flammable. Keep it away from sources of heat or flame.
• If it is painful to remove the nails or if they aren’t coming off after repeated attempts, stop and consult a nail salon for help.
• An electric nail filer may cause injury if used improperly. Read the tool’s instruction manual thoroughly and familiarize yourself with its operation beforehand.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Acetone

• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Fine-grade buffer
• Acetone nail polish remover
• Small glass bowl
• Petroleum jelly
• Aluminum foil
• Cotton balls
• Orange wood nail stick
• Moisturizer

[Edit]Dental Floss

• Dental floss pick
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Fine-grade buffer
• Moisturizer

[Edit]Electric Nail Filer

• Nail clippers
• Electric nail file
• Nail file
• Moisturizer

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Remove Nail Polish from Acrylic Nails Without the Nails Coming Off
• Make Fake Nails Look Real
• Get Long Nails
• Make Your Fingernails Look Good
• Care for Acrylic Nails

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.vogue.in/how-to/content/how-to-safely-remove-your-gel-nail-polish-and-acrylic-nails-at-home
2. ↑ https://www.vogue.in/how-to/content/how-to-safely-remove-your-gel-nail-polish-and-acrylic-nails-at-home
3. ↑ [v161425_b01]. 19 May 2020.
4. ↑ https://www.elle.com/beauty/a28088918/how-to-remove-acrylic-nails/
5. ↑ https://www.elle.com/beauty/a28088918/how-to-remove-acrylic-nails/
6. ↑ https://www.purewow.com/beauty/how-to-remove-acrylic-nails-at-home
7. ↑ [v161425_b01]. 19 May 2020.
8. ↑ https://www.purewow.com/beauty/how-to-remove-acrylic-nails-at-home
9. ↑ https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/how-to-remove-gel-nails-at-home
10. ↑ https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/how-to-remove-gel-nails-at-home
11. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zjGPJOMqOY&t=34s
12. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zjGPJOMqOY&t=68s
13. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=140&v=5zjGPJOMqOY&feature=youtu.be
14. ↑ https://youtu.be/2bWPB_kUvqU?t=60
15. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=126&v=2bWPB_kUvqU&feature=youtu.be
16. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=262&v=2bWPB_kUvqU&feature=youtu.be
17. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bWPB_kUvqU&t=405s
18. ↑ https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/how-to-remove-gel-nails-at-home

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How to Copy and Paste on a Mac

An easy guide to copy and paste text or files on a MacBook or Mac desktop computer

Do you want to copy text from one window and paste it into another? It's easy to copy and paste text on your computer using Mac's built-in menu bar, trackpad, or keyboard shortcuts. You can also copy and paste files if you need to move them to a different folder. This wikiHow will show you how to copy and paste text or files on your Mac computer.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Use the keyboard shortcuts "Command + C" to copy and "Command + V" to paste.
• Select the text you want to copy. Click "Edit" in the menu bar, then "Copy". Click the new destination, then click "Paste".
• Two-finger click the selected text. Click "Edit" in the drop-down menu, then "Copy". Click the new destination, then click "Paste".

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Using Keyboard Shortcuts

1. Select the text you want to copy. Click and drag the cursor to highlight the text you want to copy in your document or on a website.^[1]
   
   • Using keyboard shortcuts may be an easier way to copy and paste for some Mac Pro users.
2. Press . This keyboard combination will copy the selected text to your clipboard.
   
3. Go to the place in which you want to paste the text. You can paste text into any text field or document.
   
4. Press . This keyboard combination will paste the copied text.
   
   • To Paste and Match Style, press Shift + Option + Command + V.
     • This can be helpful if you copied text that has a different size or font style and only want to paste the plain text.

[Edit]Using the Menu Bar

1. Go to the text you want to copy. You can copy text in order to paste it into another document or text field.
   
2. Select the text. To select text, click and drag your mouse across it to highlight it.
   
3. Click . It's on the left side of the menu bar that's at the top of your Mac's screen. A drop-down menu will appear.
   
4. Click . You'll see this option in the Edit drop-down menu. Doing so copies any selected text to your Mac's clipboard.
   
5. Go to the place in which you want to paste the text. You can paste text into any text field or document, such as a Pages file or TextEdit document.
   
   • If you're pasting text into a text field, make sure you click the text field before proceeding.
6. Click . It's in the menu bar. The drop-down menu will reappear.
   
7. Click . It's in the drop-down menu. You should see your text or file(s) appear in the selected space.
   
   • If you're pasting formatted text into a document, you can click Paste and Match Style to format the text with the document's style. This can be helpful if you copied text that has a different size or font style and only want to paste the plain text.

[Edit]Using the Trackpad

1. Enable secondary click. You must have this feature enabled in order to use the trackpad to copy and paste. Be sure to update your Mac computer.^[2]
   
   • Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen.
   • Click System Preferences… → Trackpad → Point & Click.
   • Check the box next to Secondary click to enable "Click with two fingers".
   • If this box is checked, secondary click is already enabled.
2. Find the text you want to copy. Go to the document or folder where the content is located.
   
3. Select the text. To select text, click and drag your mouse across it to highlight it.
   
4. Two-finger click the selected text. Place the mouse cursor over the selected text, and then press the trackpad with two fingers. This will open a drop-down menu.
   
   • This is how you right click on a Mac.
5. Click . It's in the drop-down menu. Doing so will copy the selected text to your Mac's clipboard.
   
6. Go to the place in which you want to paste the text. You can paste text into any text field or document.
   
7. Two-finger click a text field or a blank space. A drop-down menu will appear.
   
8. Click . It's in the drop-down menu. You should see your text appear in the selected space.
   

[Edit]Copying and Pasting Files

1. Select a file to copy. You can select a file by clicking it once.
   
   • If you want to select multiple files at once, hold down the Command key while clicking each file.
2. Click . It's on the left side of the menu bar that's at the top of your Mac's screen. A drop-down menu will appear.
   
3. Click . You'll see this option in the Edit drop-down menu. Doing so copies any selected files to your Mac's clipboard.
   
   • You can also use the keyboard shortcut Command + C.
4. Go to the place in which you want to paste the file. Files can be pasted into most folders on your computer.
   
   • Use the Finder to find a specific location.
5. Click . If you copied multiple files, you'll see Paste (number) Items.
   
   • This will place a copy of the file in the specified location.
   • If you want to move files with copy and paste, hold the Command key while the Edit drop-down menu is open. Paste Items will change to Move Items Here.
     • This will remove the file from the original location and move it to the new location.
     • You can also use the keyboard shortcut Option + Command + V.

[Edit]Tips

• If you have a Mac with a mouse (e.g., an iMac), pressing the right side of the mouse will prompt a drop-down menu with Copy and Paste options.
• You can use the "Cut" feature to delete text from a document or text field after copying it to your clipboard. You'll find Cut in the Edit drop-down menu, or you can press Command + X to cut selected text.

[Edit]Warnings

• Some text won't be viewable in certain contexts. For example, copying a text message with emoji in it from your Mac's Message app and pasting it into a text field on Facebook or similar may result in some of the emoji not showing up.
• Copying another item or piece of text before you have a chance to paste the last-copied item or piece of text will overwrite the previously copied information. This can be disastrous if you're copying and pasting sensitive information between documents or folders.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Take a Screenshot on a Mac

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT209651
2. ↑ https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/change-trackpad-settings-mchlp1226/13.0/mac/13.0

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How to Grow Mushrooms

Mushrooms grow quickly compared to most fruits and vegetables, and don't take up precious space in your garden. Most hobbyists start out with oyster mushrooms, the easiest type to grow, but once you learn the tools of the trade you can try your hand at dozens of species.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Growing Your First Mushrooms

1. Purchase oyster mushroom spawn. Oyster mushrooms are the easiest to grow, and a great choice for novices. To get started, buy them online, in a home gardening store, or in a homebrew supply store in the form of "spawn": spores or root-like mycelium stored in sawdust, grain, or agar. You can buy the spawn alone or as part of a complete oyster mushroom kit.^[1] Any oyster mushroom variety will work, but blue grey oysters and pink oysters are especially easy and quick to grow.^[2]
   
   Growing outdoors? "Plug spawn" is a slow but even easier alternative. Just drill holes in the side of a newly fallen hardwood log (avoid “softwood” or pine because they will inhibit the growth of fungus), insert the plugs, and wait for damp weather.^[3]
   
2. Make a pasteurized substrate. If your kit came with a large bag of straw, that's a ready-to-go substrate, or material that provides nutrients and a place to grow. If you only have a small container of mushroom spawn, you'll need to make your own substrate, and heat it so only beneficial microbes can grow. Here are two ways to make a substrate:
   
   Cardboard:^[4]
   Best for spawn in sawdust^[5]
   1. Cut corrugated cardboard into pieces of equal size, a few inches square.
   2. Put the cardboard in a bucket and weigh it down with a heavy object.
   3. Add boiling water to submerge the cardboard.
   4. Cover with lid and let cool for eight hours.
   5. Wash hands with antibacterial soap.
   6. Squeeze out as much water as you can.
   Straw:^[6]
   Best for spawn in grain^[7]
   1. Choose a cereal straw such as wheat or rye.
   2. Cut into 3–4 inch lengths (7.5–10cm) using a shredder or a weed whacker in a garbage can.
   3. Tie in a pillowcase or nylon mesh laundry bag.
   Submerge in pot of water on stovetop.
   4. Heat at 160–170ºF (70–75ºC) for one hour.
   5. Drain well and let cool to below 80ºF (27ºC).^[8]
   
3. Add the spawn to the substrate. This is called "inoculation." To minimize competition from other spores, wash your hands first and inoculate as soon as the substrate is ready:
   
   • Mushroom kit with included substrate: Sterilize a syringe and inject spawn into the grow bag through the small hole, or into the tray of substrate at several points.
   • Cardboard substrate: Stack the cardboard squares inside a food-grade plastic bag. Sprinkle a little spawn between each layer as you stack. (Break up the spawn by hand if it's in a solid clump.)^[9]
   • Homemade straw substrate: Wipe a table with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Spread the straw out on the table and break up the spawn over it, mixing thoroughly. Transfer to food-grade plastic bags until they are full but not compressed.^[10]
   • There's no exact ratio of spawn to substrate, but you can start with a mix that is 2 or 3% spawn by weight. Adding more spawn helps the colony grow faster and resist contamination.^[11]
4. Poke holes in the bag. Tie the top of the plastic bag closed. Punch holes into the sides of the bag every 3 inches or so (7.5 cm), plus a few more in the base to allow for water drainage. The mushrooms need ventilation to grow quickly and reliably, or carbon dioxide build-up will prevent fruiting.
   
   • Most bags included in mushroom kits already have holes, or an air filter system that makes holes unnecessary.
5. Choose a location with a steady temperature. Now the spawn is ready to colonize the substrate with mycelium. Most strains do this best at temperatures between 60º and 75ºF (16–24ºC).^[12] Even small variations in temperature can decrease mushroom yield or encourage contamination, so try to find a room that stays at this temperature 24 hours a day.^[13]
   
   • Mycelium can grow at any light level except direct sunlight. Some growers find they get better results with low light on a daylight cycle (real or simulated). However, if you are using straw, too much light can cause grain to sprout and interfere with mushroom growth.
   • The ideal temperature depends on the strain. If your spawn came with instructions for a growing environment, follow them.
6. Check on moisture levels over the next few weeks. It takes two to five weeks for the white, feathery "roots" called mycelium to spread throughout the substrate. During this time, all you need to do is check on the moisture level every few days. If the substrate feels dry to the touch, mist it through the holes in the bag. If you see standing water inside the bag, poke more drainage holes in the base.^[14]
   
   • Mycelium is white. If you see large patches of another color, mold has contaminated the bag.^[15] Throw the bag away and wipe the area down with isopropyl alcohol before trying again.
7. Move the bag to a fruiting environment. Once the mycelium has formed a thick mat inside the bag, it is ready to fruit (produce mushrooms). The fungus has different needs for this stage, so move it to a new location and follow these instructions:
   
   • Mushrooms will not fruit without light. Provide at least enough to read by during daylight hours.^[16] Use indirect daylight, a grow light that mimics daylight, or (less effective but cheaper) a cool white bulb.^[17]
   • The fungus needs fresh air to clear out carbon dioxide, which prevents fruiting or leads to small mushrooms. Open the top of the bag and ventilate the area with a light cross breeze.
   • Lower the temperature, ideally to 55–61ºF (13–16ºC). Increase humidity to at least 80%, ideally to 90–95%, by running a humidifier or hanging plastic sheets around the grow bag. This part doesn't have to be perfect, but other conditions can affect the yield, shape, and color of your mushrooms.
8. Water lightly. Over- and under-watering are common problems at this stage. To prevent drying without soaking the mushrooms, lightly spray the inner walls of the bag once or twice a day.^[18]
   
   • If the growing mushrooms turn brown, or new mushrooms start to grow on an older mushroom's surface, the substrate is probably too dry.
   • If the caps of the mushrooms feel clammy or sticky, the substrate is probably too wet.
9. Pick the mushrooms as they grow to full size. Mushrooms start as tiny "pins," then grow rapidly over the next few days if conditions are right. Once they have reached full size, press down on the substrate with one hand, then use the other to twist the stalk off at the base.^[19] You may eat them immediately or dry them for later use.
   
   • If you're not sure what a fully developed oyster mushroom looks like, wait until the edges of the first mushroom go wavy. This is slightly past optimal harvesting point, but still edible. Pick the other mushrooms just before they reach the size of the first.^[20]
   • Tiny, aborted mushrooms are common in some strains. Leave them in place without picking them.
10. Continue harvesting mushrooms. Most spawn is good for at least two fruitings, and some will continue growing for three or four months. Keep the substrate lightly moist and continue picking mushrooms until they stop appearing.
    

[Edit]Improving the Process

1. Experiment with other mushroom varieties. The basic process for growing oyster mushrooms works for most mushroom species, but you will need to make adjustments. When you buy spawn, check the instructions or ask the seller for the following information so you can adjust your approach:
   
   • Preferred substrate (some species need a specially prepared compost)
   • Ideal temperature during colonization
   • Ideal temperature and humidity levels during fruiting (mushroom growth)
     
     Lion's mane, lingzhi, shiitake, enoki, and nameko mushrooms are all good choices for a second project, only a bit more difficult than oyster mushrooms.
2. Keep conditions clean. If mold or other contaminants take over your substrate, that batch of mushrooms will be unusable. Most mushroom species are not as resistant to contamination as oyster mushrooms are, so it pays to spend more effort keeping the area clean:
   
   • Wash your hands with antibacterial soap before handling any part of the operation.
   • Take special care to pasteurize your substrate. If stovetop heating becomes impractical, look into a steam room or chemical treatment.
   • Treating a compost substrate is complex, and may require help from an experienced grower.^[21]
3. Cover the substrate with a casing. "Casing" is a layer of sterile material on top of a tray of substrate, usually a mixture of peat moss and ground limestone. Keep the casing moist so water gradually leaches through to the substrate, without making the substrate soggy.
   
   • Not all types of spawn need casing. Ask the seller or an experienced grower for advice.
   • Do not ventilate the area until the tiny "pins" have appeared on the surface of the casing. Ventilating too early will trigger fruiting before the pins have broken through, growing mushrooms underneath the casing.
4. Take control over growing conditions. Tracking and controlling temperature and humidity will improve your mushroom harvests, and help you improve your setup with each attempt. If you get serious about a mushroom growing hobby, prepare a room with fans or an air duct for ventilation, plus a heating system and/or air conditioner to control temperature. Record temperature and humidity changes using a thermometer and hygrometer.^[22]
   
   • Temperature can vary significantly between the ceiling and floor of a room. If you're growing on multiple shelves, put a thermometer at each level.^[23]
   • Strong drafts can be fatal to some mushroom types. Protect the spawn from direct wind.
5. Get rid of substrate after a harvest. If you plan on growing more mushrooms in the same room, pasteurize your substrate again to get rid of mold and bacteria that might contaminate the room. With a compost substrate, this can take 8–24 hours of steaming at around 150ºF (70ºC). Although the substrate is low in nutrients for mushrooms, you can use it as garden compost or mulch for newly planted lawns.^[24]
   
   • Spent substrate has a high concentration of salt, which some plants are sensitive to. Leaving it outdoors to "weather" for six months should remove this problem.
6. Make your own mushroom spawn. Instead of buying spawn each time, you could grow your own from spores. This is a difficult and complicated task, but there are many free resources that can guide you. (Try contacting a mycological association in your area). One way to create a spawn culture is to make a spore print. Transfer the spores to a petri dish of agar using an inoculation loop, as described here (though you do not need to draw a T pattern). Repeat with several petri dishes, since some may fail to germinate.^[25]
   
   • A mostly sterile environment is a necessity for making spawn. Before you begin, remove all rugs and curtains that could trap dust. Clean all surfaces with mild disinfectant, including the ceiling. Cover all openings with plastic sheeting, and make an "antechamber" at the entrance with a second layer of plastic.^[26]

[Edit]Tips

• Mushroom spawn deteriorates over time. Put it in substrate as soon as possible, and refrigerate it if you can't use it immediately.^[27]

[Edit]Warnings

• It is illegal in most countries to cultivate, transport, possess, or consume psilocybin mushrooms (magic mushrooms). Breaking any of these laws could lead to major jail time.
• Mushrooms produce airborne spores which can cause respiratory problems in sensitive or allergic people. Wear a respirator while near the growing mushrooms if you are concerned about this.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

For your first project:

• Oyster mushroom spawn
• Straw, cardboard, or other substrate mushrooms can grow in
• Warm or room temperature location for first stage of growth
• Humid, low light location for final stage of growth
• Spray bottle of water

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Compost Horse Manure
• Grow Popcorn
• Plant a Tree
• Grow Algae
• Cross Pollinate Different Vegetables to Create Hybrids
• Grow Edible Mushrooms

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/grow-your-own-mushrooms-zmaz04onzsel
2. ↑ http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/how-to-grow-oyster-mushrooms-at-home/
3. ↑ http://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/grow-your-own-mushrooms-zmaz04onzsel
4. ↑ http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/how-to-grow-oyster-mushrooms-at-home/
5. ↑ http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/mushroom-spawn.html
6. ↑ http://www.namyco.org/preparation_of_substrates.php
7. ↑ http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/mushroom-spawn.html
8. ↑ http://library.uniteddiversity.coop/Permaculture/Mushroom_Cultivator-A_Practical_Guide_to_Growing_Mushrooms_at_Home.pdf
9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qfk95bI-jhs
10. ↑ http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/how-to-grow-mushrooms.html
11. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qfk95bI-jhs
12. ↑ http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/how-to-grow-mushrooms.html
13. ↑ http://library.uniteddiversity.coop/Permaculture/Mushroom_Cultivator-A_Practical_Guide_to_Growing_Mushrooms_at_Home.pdf
14. ↑ http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/how-to-grow-mushrooms.html
15. ↑ http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/how-to-grow-mushrooms.html
16. ↑ http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/how-to-grow-oyster-mushrooms-at-home/
17. ↑ http://library.uniteddiversity.coop/Permaculture/Mushroom_Cultivator-A_Practical_Guide_to_Growing_Mushrooms_at_Home.pdf
18. ↑ http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/how-to-grow-oyster-mushrooms-at-home/
19. ↑ http://hnr.k-state.edu/doc/hort-tips/Growing%20Mushrooms.pdf
20. ↑ http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/how-to-grow-oyster-mushrooms-at-home/
21. ↑ http://extension.psu.edu/publications/ul210
22. ↑ http://library.uniteddiversity.coop/Permaculture/Mushroom_Cultivator-A_Practical_Guide_to_Growing_Mushrooms_at_Home.pdf
23. ↑ http://hnr.k-state.edu/doc/hort-tips/Growing%20Mushrooms.pdf
24. ↑ http://extension.psu.edu/publications/ul210
25. ↑ http://library.uniteddiversity.coop/Permaculture/Mushroom_Cultivator-A_Practical_Guide_to_Growing_Mushrooms_at_Home.pdf
26. ↑ http://library.uniteddiversity.coop/Permaculture/Mushroom_Cultivator-A_Practical_Guide_to_Growing_Mushrooms_at_Home.pdf
27. ↑ http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/mushroom-spawn.html

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