Effective Methods for Edible Mushroom Cultivation and Winter Management
As temperatures drop, the mycelium and fruiting bodies of edible mushrooms grow more slowly, respiration intensity decreases, and mushroom yields are low, but the mushroom flesh is thick and the quality is good. Mushroom growers should seize the good opportunity of high market demand during the Spring Festival, when winter mushrooms sell well at high prices, and take effective measures to strive for more mushrooms and better mushrooms, achieving better economic returns. Here are three management suggestions:
I. Increase the temperature of the mushroom bed
Check the greenhouse film of the mushroom shed and repair any damage promptly. During the day, rely on sunlight and the biological heat of the mycelium itself to maintain the temperature inside the mushroom shed; at night, cover the outside of the shed with straw mats to prevent freezing and frost.
II. Replenish water and control humidity
After the mycelium growth and autumn growth stages, shiitake and oyster mushroom logs lose a considerable amount of water, retaining only 50%-60% of their original weight, so water should be replenished at this time. Before replenishing water, open the shed doors for ventilation for 3-4 days. When replenishing water, use water injection needles to pierce into the mushroom logs and, with the pressure of a water pump, allow the logs to absorb enough water in a short time. Well water is preferable as the water source. Principles for spraying water: spray as a fine mist; spray more when there are many mushrooms and less when there are few; spray more during the bud stage and less during the harvest period.
III. Pay attention to ventilation and air exchange, and avoid north wind attacks
After mushroom buds emerge, respiration is vigorous. If air does not circulate and the carbon dioxide concentration is too high, the formation and growth of fruiting bodies will be inhibited. Ventilation and air exchange should be carried out around noon when the temperature is relatively high, for 10-20 minutes. When entering and leaving the shed for operations, enter and exit from the south side of the shed to prevent attacks from dry, cold wind. (Liu Xinxin)