Four measures to increase production of straw mushroom
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In the cultivation of straw mushrooms, several effective techniques can be applied to enhance yield and improve growth conditions. One key method is the use of secondary inoculation, which is particularly beneficial during the first and second harvests. When the mycelium grows too quickly, it may age rapidly, reducing its viability and limiting the ability to utilize nutrients for further mushroom development. To address this, after the first harvest, the grain should be loosened and watered with lime solution to adjust the pH of the culture material to 8-9. Then, new spawn is spread over the surface and covered with a thin layer of fermented material. After the second harvest, the block is flipped, and the lower layer is moved to the top. A 1% lime solution is sprayed to maintain moisture and pH balance, followed by a second inoculation at 2–3%, typically around 30%. For straw-based cultivation, secondary inoculation can be done four days after initial sowing by placing the strain in gaps between the straw layers. The size of the secondary inoculum is about 20% of the original dose. This ensures that when the first harvest occurs, the second-inoculated mycelium is already active, breaking down the substrate and continuing to produce mushrooms.
Another important factor is adjusting the pH of the culture material. As straw mushrooms grow, they consume large amounts of nutrients and produce metabolites, including organic acids, which increase acidity and hinder mycelial recovery and continued fruiting. To counteract this, after each harvest, the culture should be supplemented with a nutrient solution and made alkaline. This helps restore the mycelium and extends the harvesting period. One way to do this is by applying 3% lime water, which not only rehydrates the material but also raises the pH. Alternatively, a solution of 0.1% urea mixed with bran water (10 kg bran in 100 kg water) can be used. After boiling and filtering, 50 kg of filtrate and 50 kg of clean water are combined. Urea should not be used in excess, as it may lead to the formation of comatus umbrella bacteria. Another option is to supplement with dry manure and human urine. Dried cow dung is crushed, mixed with 40% human urine, and left to ferment for one day before being applied to the surface after each harvest. Adding chicken or duck manure can further improve results.
Additionally, covering the straw with a layer of soil can significantly improve moisture retention and humidity regulation, leading to better mushroom development and a 20–40% increase in yield. The soil should be taken from a vegetable garden, dug up to a depth of 8–10 cm, and applied as a 2 cm thick layer over the culture material.
Finally, covering the inoculated straw with a plastic film after planting helps maintain stable temperature and humidity, increases carbon dioxide levels, and promotes microbial activity that supports mycelium growth. The film should be placed immediately after inoculation to avoid delays. To prevent the film from sticking to the material, some straw or wheat straw soaked in lime water can be scattered on the surface. The temperature inside the material should be monitored; if it exceeds 40°C, the film must be removed promptly. After four days of covering, the film should be removed and ventilation ensured, or a bamboo frame can be used to prevent excessive hyphal growth on the surface. When mushrooms begin to appear, the film should be removed or lifted to prevent bud death.