How to grow mushrooms

Mushrooms

Mushrooms belong to the kingdom of fungi and are considered living organisms. Contrary to common belief, mushrooms are not plants because they do not produce their own food. Instead, they rely on organic matter for sustenance by decomposing it into simpler substances. Fungi reproduce both sexually and asexually through budding, binary fission, and fragmentation.

Some fungi live as decomposers on organic residues in water and soil, while others are parasitic on plants, causing numerous diseases. It is worth noting that certain types of mushrooms are edible, such as some species of button mushrooms, while others are toxic and should not be consumed.

Among the most important types of mushrooms used as food are truffles, shiitake mushrooms, and specific varieties of button mushrooms. Mushrooms are easy to digest, help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, and are a rich source of B vitamins. Due to their high nutritional value and distinctive flavor, the demand for mushrooms has increased. They are high in protein and contain essential minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and others.

Recently, mushroom farming projects have emerged, either at home or in specialized facilities, because mushrooms are easy to cultivate and cost less compared to their high market price. Mushrooms can be grown in various locations with controlled lighting and temperature, depending on the type of mushroom. For example, button mushrooms can be cultivated in dark rooms, basements, or even dark spaces within the house. The floors and walls of the cultivation space must be free of cracks to prevent pests.

Factors for Successful Mushroom Cultivation

Several factors must be considered to ensure the successful cultivation of mushrooms:

1. Cleanliness of the Cultivation Area:
   • The area used for cultivation must be thoroughly clean.
   • Windows should be covered with metal mesh to prevent insects from entering.
   • The area must be sterilized before use to ensure complete cleanliness.
2. Temperature Control:
   • The temperature must be adjusted according to the type of mushroom being grown, as each type has specific temperature requirements. For instance:
     • Volvariella (Chinese mushroom) requires a temperature of 30–35°C.
     • Oyster mushrooms thrive at a temperature of 15–25°C.
3. Humidity Levels:
   • Humidity should range between 85% and 90%.
   • Ensure humidity does not drop below 60%, as this may cause the mushrooms to dry out.
   • Humidity above 90% can lead to mold growth on the mushrooms.
4. Ventilation:
   • Ventilation is not crucial during the first week of cultivation but becomes essential afterward.
   • A special exhaust fan is recommended to ensure proper air circulation during the fruiting stage.
5. Lighting:
   • Dim lighting is preferred.
   • Mushrooms should not be exposed to direct sunlight.

How to Grow Button Mushrooms

1. Prepare the Growing Medium:
   • Collect straw or plant residues and mix with 5% wheat bran.
   • Add 5% agricultural gypsum, which can be purchased from agricultural stores.
2. Soaking the Medium:
   • Fill the mixture into plastic bags and soak it in barrels for three hours.
   • Heat the barrels and allow them to boil for two hours.
3. Cooling the Medium:
   • Remove the plastic bags and let them cool completely.
4. Planting the Mushroom Seeds:
   • Prepare plastic bags for cultivation. Place a 10 cm layer of the prepared medium in the bag.
   • Sprinkle mushroom spawn directly over the medium.
   • Add another 10 cm layer of the medium and sprinkle more spawn.
   • Add a final layer of the medium, 5 cm thick.
5. Sealing and Incubation:
   • Seal the plastic bag tightly and leave it for 2–3 weeks until white patches begin to appear.
6. Opening the Bag:
   • Open the top of the bag only and leave it for one week.
7. Slitting the Bag:
   • Cut slits along the sides of the bag to allow the mushrooms to grow and emerge.
8. Harvesting:
   • Harvest the mushrooms and leave the bag for new mushroom growth cycles.