you can take a sample whenever but id wait til bout week or so b4 pickin. you can either slow dry it or pop it in the oven on low and quick dry it and smoke.. take in mind will be lil harsh that way but still should get a high
no the air from the bubblers want help. you need a bigger fan or one for exhaust to suck out the heat! sounds interesting id like to see pics! 87 is lil high need to be around 75 to 83 degrees f