Editor's Note: Since late September, there have been numerous inquiries regarding the challenges faced in cultivating agaricus mushrooms, with the most common issue being the failure to produce or fruit mushrooms. To address this, the newspaper has invited a researcher from the Soil and Fertilizer Institute of Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences to provide an in-depth analysis. The goal is to offer practical solutions and support for mushroom growers across the country.
One of the key issues lies in the selection of suitable mushroom strains. It’s often said that “good seeds lead to good seedlings.†In regions like Shandong, Hebei, and Henan, it is recommended to use Aspergillus fumigatus strain AS2796. Before promoting any new strains, it is essential to conduct small-scale trials to evaluate their performance. The correct approach involves testing both the newly introduced strains and similar ones within the same species. Only those that demonstrate superior product quality, strong survival rates, and overall performance should be selected for large-scale cultivation.
Degradation of strain quality can occur due to various factors, such as poor seed production techniques, improper handling during preservation, or excessive subculturing. Some growers may even use fourth- or fifth-generation strains as third-grade seeds, which can significantly reduce the original desirable traits. Symptoms of degraded strains include slow germination, weak mycelium growth, poor resistance, delayed fruiting, and increased susceptibility to diseases—leading to total crop failure. To prevent this, it is best for growers to learn proper seed production techniques and prepare their own seeds. If that is not possible, they should purchase high-quality third-grade seeds but ensure strict quality checks on the suppliers, especially the credibility of the breeders. When inspecting Agaricus bisporus strains, attention should be given to factors such as moisture content, hyphal growth, and the presence of contaminants like airborne mycelium, bacteria, or pests. Any questionable strain should be discarded to avoid losses.
Another critical factor affecting mushroom production is the base material ratio. Agaricus cultivation requires a variety of raw and supplementary materials, and only a scientifically balanced formula can ensure successful growth. Improper ratios may lead to excessive aerial hyphae, disease outbreaks, and delays in fruiting. A basic formula includes 3000 kg of wheat straw, 3000 kg of cow dung powder, 60 kg of superphosphate, 60 kg of urea, 80 kg of lime powder, 80 kg of gypsum, 90 kg of calcium carbonate, 60 bags of mushroom disease eliminator (120 g/bag), and 12 bags of edible bacteria three-dimensional nutrition essence (120 g/bag). In areas with biogas facilities, adding biogas residue or slurry can further enhance results.
During base material fermentation, common problems include uneven fermentation, undercooked or overcooked materials, and acidification, all of which can hinder mycelial growth and increase contamination risks. To address this, secondary fermentation is recommended to achieve uniform and consistent material. Alternatively, if one-time fermentation is used, careful turning of the pile using the "changing inside and outside" method is essential. Monitoring moisture and pH levels before placing the material into the shed is also crucial for optimal conditions.
Pests and diseases are another major concern. Insects hidden in the base material can damage the mycelium after sowing, leading to poor fruiting or no mushrooms at all. Preventive measures include thorough cleaning of the mushroom house and its surroundings, ensuring no entry points for pests. Using insecticides to treat the soil and applying lime powder at vents and entrances can help deter reptiles. Regular spraying of disease prevention agents every 3–7 days is also advised. Immediate action must be taken if pests are detected to prevent infestation.
Finally, management practices play a vital role in successful mushroom cultivation. Even minor oversights in technical operations can lead to serious issues. Key areas requiring attention include base material fermentation, post-sowing germination, and water management after casing. Factors such as high temperatures, excessive watering, poor ventilation, misuse of chemicals, and immature mycelium can all result in failed fruiting. Growers should remain vigilant and address any emerging issues promptly to ensure a successful harvest.