Key Technical Points for Summer Preparation of Edible Mushroom Spawn

Late June to mid-July is the golden period for producing spawn for early autumn cultivation of edible mushrooms. However, high summer temperatures often cause failures in spawn production. To achieve success in production, attention should be paid to the following issues.

(1) Ingredient mixing method, taking the cottonseed hull-bran culture medium as an example (suitable for wood ear, enoki mushroom, nameko, oyster mushroom, etc.): cottonseed hull 44 kg, bran 5 kg, sucrose 0.5 kg, gypsum powder 0.5 kg. Add an appropriate amount of water and stir evenly; once the culture material is mixed, it can be packed into polypropylene bags. When filling, fold the bottom corners inward, keep the tightness consistent from top to bottom, and press firmly while filling. Each bag can hold 300-375 grams of dry material, or 700-850 grams of wet material. After filling the bags, tie the bag openings tightly. Sterilize on the same day after filling to prevent the culture material from molding and deteriorating.

(2) Sterilization: Sterilization is an important step in spawn production. If sterilization is not thorough, it will cause batch contamination of the spawn. When sterilizing bagged spawn, it is best to place them on their sides, not too tightly packed, and leave gaps to allow steam circulation. If using high-pressure sterilization, sterilize for 2.5 hours at a pressure of 1.2-1.5 mp. If using a rustic steaming pot, continue sterilizing for more than 12 hours after the temperature reaches 100°C.

(3) Inoculation: Strict aseptic operation is required, and production should be carried out according to spawn inoculation requirements.

(4) Cultivation: During the spawn cultivation period, always pay attention to the temperature, ventilation, and air humidity in the cultivation room, avoid excessive light, and at the same time strengthen inspection of the spawn bags. If contamination is found, take treatment measures promptly. Every 3-5 days, spray disinfectant and insecticide once in the mushroom house.