Mushroom Substrate
A mushroom substrate is generally a mixture of natural materials that mushroom mycelia can grow and set itself into. The substrate supplies moisture, nutrients and energy that mushrooms need to grow fully. There are various types of substrates which farmers use.
A combination of animal waste, fish waste, hay and straw make up the bulk of the substrate. The best mushroom substrate should be of a sufficient quality that the mycelial units established on it are able to support themselves. Some substrates are enhanced in this way, by adding certain additives that act to promote root growth. Some of these additives include seaweed, alfalfa, coconut husks and green alfalfa.
Apart from substrates, there are also other common mushroom substrate recipes that you can try out. One of the most popular is the so-called wort pasteurization. When using this method, the mushrooms are simmered for about four hours to give them a more wort like flavor and texture. This pasteurization method is best suited to using mushrooms that are slightly harder than you’re used to.
A Guide For Farmers Who Are New to Mycelia
Another popular mushroom substrate recipe that you can try out is the coir mushroom substrate, which is prepared by mixing coco coir with vermiculite. This mix provides an excellent growing environment for the mycoid fungi. This type of mix can be found commercially or you can make your own. You will need to heat the coco coir in a microwave before mixing it with vermiculite. After the mix has been heated, it is then ready for use.
Another method of growing mushrooms is through casing and pinning. Curing involves removing the top of a mushroom mycelium and then putting it into a protective container. This allows the mycelium to grow in a controlled environment and prevents any predators from getting to the roots. Pinning involves removing the bottom of a mushroom mycelium, which then grows into the desired shape and forms a protective cover around the mushroom. This is another popular mushroom substrate preparation, especially for those who are growing smaller species of mushrooms.
Mushroom farmers commonly use a media such as coco coir to help their mushrooms grow. Although it has proven to be useful for growing mushrooms, it has also been used for years in other types of mycelia growth. Other types of mycelia growth can use other materials, including wood shavings, bark, fiberglass and other dried materials. Although it may take a bit of time and effort, the producers are confident that using this type of media will improve the quality of the mushrooms. This is why many farmers are starting to switch over to this type of mushroom substrate.