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Top 7 Sterility Tips
Never lose a grow tub again with these easy sterility tips!
Always Use Isopropyl Alcohol
Seventy percent isopropyl alcohol is the most effective chemical for eliminating contamination. Thoroughly spray all surfaces and equipment before use.
Flow Hoods & Stir Air Boxes
A non-negotiable in mycology to reduce floating contamination contacting your equipment.
It's not enough to own them you must know how to use them properly e.g. preping set up, changing filters frequently, sterilisation ect.
Test Your Syringe On An Agar Plate
No matter how flawless their track record may be, spore vendors are still susceptible to mistakes and contamination. By placing a few drops of your syringe onto an agar plate and allowing it to grow, you can guarantee your syringes are 100% clean.
Quick and Precise Movements
Always set up your equipment prior to use, and have it readily accessible. Practice beforehand to make your movements extra sharp.
Close the lid!
As hard as it is, reduce the amount of time the monotub lid is open during spraying and fanning to reduce airborne contaminants from entering your tub, especially in the first 1-2 weeks of top layer colonisation.
Never "wing" It
Mycology favours the patient, but also the precice.
Mycelium is extremely vulnerable to contamination, and requires the strictest of sterile practices. While you can wing other hobbies, mycology you cannot.
Adopt A Perfectionist Attitude
Continuously evaluate areas of your sterile practice for improvement. Ask yourself: How can I perform this transfer more quickly to minimize exposure to air? How can I reduce the number of times I open the tub? How can I make my techniques more airtight and efficient?
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