Hello all! Lately I have been wanting to expand my horizons a bit from the old vegetable and herb growing. Despite having became a hydroponic gardener for fun, I am starting to get a little bored and would like to start mushroom culture. I have seen kits online for different types of mushrooms and they run about $25 to purchase before shipping. Being a college student I really would like to make my own "kit" if it would save me money and so that I can learn more about the actual growing process rather than just add water if you know what I mean....

So I have a few questions.

1. Can it truly be cheaper to grow my own mushrooms rather than purchase a kit?

2. What materials will I need to grow shiitake mushrooms for my first run?

3. How do I start these mushrooms (can I use shiitake bought at the store as "mycelium" or is that just absurd?)

4. Any good websites I can check out for help?