Shiitake Kit Maturity

Shiitakes grow a little differently from most other mushrooms that we cultivate. Before opening up your shiitake kit, it should be properly aged. The mycelium will begin to take on a popcorn-like texture and turn brown, that's a cue that it'll be ready soon to start pinning. This is a great example of a kit that's ready to start: Here
Yours may not get quite as brown as the one displayed, but should come close. Unfortunately, depending on the age of your kit, some patience is required as it can take a few weeks. Your kit should simply be stored at room temperature during the aging process.