PF Tek first-time troubleshooting checklist — before you declare failure

4 days is not long enough to worry. PF Tek jars typically take 5–14 days after birthing to begin pinning. Temperature and humidity are the key variables: are you at 70–76°F? Is humidity above 85%? If both are good, wait. The white jars sound healthy — full colonization means the mycelium is ready; it needs the right environmental signal to fruit. For the green spots: photograph them and post here. Green = Trichoderma contamination. Any shade of blue-green = remove and isolate from your other jars immediately.

Fruiting chamber checklist: Is the perlite wet (not dry)? Is the chamber actually holding humidity — use a hygrometer if you're not sure. Are you fanning 2–3 times daily for fresh air exchange? PF Tek cakes need FAE just as much as humidity. No pins on a jar after 10+ days in proper conditions: try a dunk (submerge in cold water 12 hours) followed by cold shock (refrigerator 8 hours). This often triggers pinning on stubborn jars.

The green spots: if they're small (under 1cm) and not expanding, watch for 24 hours. If they expand or you see any powdery texture, they're contaminated. Separate contaminated jars immediately — bag them and take them outside before opening. Trichoderma spores spread in air and can contaminate your entire grow space and future jars. Don't risk your other jars for one.