Procedures and Conditions for Cultivating Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are a type of mushroom that is much in demand in the culinary world. Apart from its delicious taste, oyster mushroom cultivation is also a promising alternative for farmers or individuals interested in agriculture. By following the procedures and fulfilling certain conditions, you can successfully plant and obtain satisfactory results from oyster mushroom cultivation. The following is a complete guide to starting oyster mushroom cultivation.
- Selection of Mushroom Seeds
Selecting quality oyster mushroom seeds is an important first step in cultivation. Look for seeds that are healthy, free from contamination, and come from a trusted source. Seeds can be purchased from reputable mushroom farmers or mushroom seed producers.
- Preparation of Planting Media
Oyster mushrooms grow well in planting media made from a mixture of wood sawdust, rice husks and lime. Make sure the planting medium is sterile and has been processed properly to avoid contamination which could be detrimental to fungal growth.
- Making Baglog (Mushroom Growing Media)
Mix Ingredients: Mix wood sawdust, rice husks and lime in a certain ratio.
Sterilization: Heat the mixture over a fire or oven to kill bacteria and other unwanted fungi.
Packing Media: Fill plastic or sacks with the mixture to form briquettes or “baglog.”
- Inoculation of Mushroom Seeds
Prepare the Inoculation Site: Perform the inoculation in a sterile room or in a disinfection cabinet.
Baglog Inoculation: Plant mushroom seeds in baglog by injecting spores or using prepared seeds.
Close the Hole: After inoculation, close the hole in the baglog with a material that is easily penetrated by the fungus.
