Optimization of Generational Grain Spawn and Mushroom Production In Tropical Environments

Mushrooms possess a high level of nutrients and can be a robust way to generate year-round income for low-resource farmers. However, specific humidity levels, temperature, light exposure, and nourishment necessary for optimal growth can be difficult to attain in low-resource settings. A series of experiments were conducted to observe how nutrition, inoculation rate, light, and heat exposure affect the growth of Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster) mushrooms. It was determined that a 1:1 hay to straw ratio was optimal for nutrition while a 1:1 spawn to substrate ratio provided the highest inoculation rate. This ratio is higher than the common inoculation rate of 7% and should be used if the availability of mycelium is not an issue. For temperature, exposing the spawn to a temperature range of 80 to 82 °F for 8 hours yields the fastest mycelial growth. Exposure to light 6–8 inches away from the spawn accelerates mycelial propagation.