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Mushroom Cultivation Best For Winters: Winter season is best for growing mushrooms. Due to coolness at this time, crop care is easily done. In such a situation, by taking care of some important things and using the right technology, you can get good production, which in turn can earn good profits.
Winter season is considered very favorable for mushroom cultivation. Due to naturally low temperature, there is less expenditure on additional arrangements in mushroom production. This is the reason why even small and marginal farmers are able to grow mushrooms easily. This crop, which is ready in a short time, gives good profits to the farmers. Mushrooms are in special demand in the market because it is a nutritious and protein-rich food item. Due to its high quality and yield in the cold season, farmers can grow it at low cost and get more profit.
Agricultural expert Dr. Pramod Kumar told Local18 that mainly button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) and oyster mushroom (Dhingri) are most popular for mushroom cultivation in winter. The ideal temperature for button mushrooms is 14–18°C, which is easily achieved during cold days. Whereas oyster mushroom gives good yield even in 15–22°C and the technology is simple. Farmers can choose any of these varieties as per their convenience and market demand. Both varieties sell at higher prices and give higher profits per unit.
Mushroom cultivation mainly involves four stages—preparing compost, adding spawn, making beds and harvesting. Compost gets prepared quickly in cold weather and mushroom growth is good. Dry leaves, chaff or paddy straw are used for oyster mushroom. Compost for button mushroom is made by mixing cow dung, urea, super phosphate etc. Maintaining cleanliness and proper humidity is the key to success. The entire process can be easily done in a room at home or even in a small shed.
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Cold weather is the biggest help in mushroom production due to natural control of temperature and humidity. Mushroom growth requires a temperature of 14–20°C and 70–80% humidity. Humidity naturally persists in winter, reducing the need for additional equipment. If farmers take care of light sprinkling of water and ventilation in the room, then better quality crops are obtained throughout the season. Due to favorable temperature, mushrooms become white, thick and grow in large quantities.
He further told that mushroom production can be started in a small room of 10×12 feet. The cost of one season of oyster mushroom is around Rs 8-12 thousand, which includes straw, polythene, spawn and water. Whereas in button mushroom, due to compost and structure, the cost can be up to 20-30 thousand. Most farmers reduce costs even further by using spare rooms of the house, warehouse or shed. The thing to note is that there is no need of a field for mushrooms, due to which the cost of land also remains zero.
The demand for mushroom is continuously increasing because it is considered nutritious, protein rich and beneficial for health. Fresh mushroom is sold in the market for Rs 120–200 per kg. In one season, oyster mushroom can yield 80–100 kg and button mushroom can produce 150–200 kg. Due to low cost and high demand, farmers can easily earn a net profit of Rs 40-60 thousand. Sale of processed products like mushi mushroom, mushroom powder and pickle also provides additional income.
Mushroom cultivation completely depends on a clean environment. If there is dirt or mold at any stage, the entire batch may spoil. Therefore, take special care of cleanliness while preparing compost, spawn and beds. There should not be much dampness in the room and ventilation should be proper. Spray water lightly so that moisture is maintained but there is no waterlogging. It is necessary to check the bed and measure the temperature every 2–3 days. Similarly, take the right type of spawn only from a government or certified institute.
Farmers who want to start mushroom cultivation for the first time can take advantage of the training programs run by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), agricultural universities and horticulture department. The government also provides subsidy for setting up mushroom units in many states. The training provides detailed information on compost, moisture management and market strategy. With the right guidance and small investment, farmers can earn sustainable income by producing mushrooms throughout the year. Cold season is considered most suitable for its beginning.
