Economic Importance of Fungi — Question 2

Five major steps in the cultivation of common edible mushrooms are:

1. Composting — Composting involves mixing of various components such as
   1. Paddy straw or Wheat
   2. Organic and Inorganic fertilizer
   3. Chicken manure
      The temperature of the compost is kept for about one week under 50°C.
2. Spawning — 'Mushroom seed' in the form of mycelium of mushroom to be grown is introduced into the heap of compost and left for spreading for around two days.
3. Casing — It is an important step wherein a thin layer of soil is spread over the compost. It:
   1. Gives support to the mushroom
   2. Prevents quick drying of the compost
   3. Provides humidity
   4. Assists to check temperature
4. Cropping & Harvesting — The growth occurs in three principal stages:
   1. Mycelium grows within 2-6 weeks
   2. Tiny pin heads
   3. Button stage grows bigger attaining marketable size
   4. Fully grown mushrooms are taken out.
5. Preservation — Shelf life of mushroom can be increased by the following processes:
   1. Vacuum cooling
   2. Storing at 15 degree Celsius and giving gamma radiation
   3. Freeze drying in a solution of ascorbic acid, citric acid, and brine etc.