Three Practical Methods for Summer Management of Oyster Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms sown in spring and those sown in late winter often produce 1~2 flushes before high temperatures stop them from fruiting further. To carry the oyster mushroom safely through the summer, preserve its nutrients, and have it continue fruiting in autumn, summer management can be carried out.

Air-drying method for mycelial blocks (bags) This method is relatively simple and trouble-free: air-dry the mycelial blocks (bags) that have not fruited or have produced only 1~2 flushes (bags that have not fruited need not have their openings opened), and place them in a cool, ventilated spot. If placed outdoors, add a cover to protect them from rain and to prevent dampness and mold. After the temperature drops in September, soak the mycelial blocks (bags) in a water tank so that they absorb water thoroughly, and they can then fruit.

Trench storage method Choose a spot with higher ground and easy drainage, dig a storage trench 50 cm wide and 60~70 cm deep, pat the trench walls firm, and scatter lime (to help disinfect and sterilize and prevent contamination by stray microbes), then place the mycelial blocks (bags) into the trench. Cover the trench with soil about 50 cm thick, rising 15 cm above the ground in an arched shape to help drainage. Take them out after autumn begins and let them fruit.

Wet soil covering method Slightly air-dry the mycelial blocks (bags) or the surface of the substrate that have not fruited or have produced only 1~2 flushes, then cover them directly with wet soil, with a soil cover 40 cm thick. This way the temperature fluctuates little, the respiration rate is low, and metabolism is slow, which keeps the mycelium at a relatively strong vitality. After the temperature drops in September, remove the covering soil, replenish water sufficiently, and they can then fruit. Alternatively, slightly air-dry the mycelial blocks (bags) or the surface of the substrate, first cover them with plastic film, then cover them with 3 cm of soil and pat it firm, and on top of the soil put straw mats for shade to guard against high temperatures; when the temperature drops in autumn, carry out management and let them continue to fruit.