The Cultivation of Oyster Mushroom Using Various Growing Media

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Mushroom production has been practiced as an industry in the Philippines. Oyster mushroom is one of the most popular due to its simple, low cost production technology and high biological efficiency. Fortunately, agricultural wastes and residues are available everywhere without costs. Coconut sawdust like other agro-waste contains cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, which are good in mushroom production. Other agricultural wastes which also contain the substances needed for oyster mushroom cultivation are banana leaves, coconut husk, and coffee silver skin. The aim of this work is to evaluate the potential for utilization of banana leaves, coconut husk, and coffee silver skin,in association with coconut sawdust, for the cultivation of the oyster mushroom.

METHODS

The coconut sawdust, banana leaves, coconut husk, and coffee silver skin were decomposed for a week. After one week, the materials were submerged in water for 24 hours. The water contents of the substrates were removed by squeezing. After water removal, the substrates were placed in the growing bags. The growing bags were then pasteurized for 60 minutes using a steamer. After pasteurization, the growing bags were left to cool, removed from the steamer and transferred into the growing room. the growing bags were opened, and a spoonful of spawn were placed inside the bags, while spawned were slightly mixed. The growing bags were arranged inside the growing room.

RESULTS

In terms of germination period, Treatment 3 was the most effective. In terms of mass and number of oyster mushroom, Treatment 1 was the most effective.

DISCUSSIONS

The use of the different growing media has effects on the growth of oyster mushroom. The use of saw dust and coconut husk with the proportion of 75% and 25%, respectively shortened the number of days of emergence of the oyster mushroom. The use of 100% saw dust as growing media in the oyster mushroom cultivation results in highest production of oyster mushroom.