From Waste to Harvest: Growing Mushrooms in Compost

ByMehedi Hasan Hours
Mushrooms in Compost

Growing your mushrooms at home is a rewarding way to ensure a steady supply of fresh, nutritious fungi. Using compost as a growing medium is one of the most effective methods for home cultivation.

This blog post will provide a straightforward, step-by-step guide to growing mushrooms in compost.

What is Mushroom Cultivation?

Basics of Mushroom Growth

Mushrooms grow from spores, which need a nutrient-rich environment to germinate and form mycelium. They require a dark, humid environment with the right temperature and moisture levels, not sunlight.

Types of Mushrooms Suitable for Compost

  • Oyster Mushrooms: Easy and fast-growing.
  • Button Mushrooms: Common and relatively easy to cultivate.
  • Shiitake Mushrooms: They require specific conditions but are highly valued for their flavor.
  • Wine Cap Mushrooms: Resilient and suitable for various outdoor environments.

Preparing the Compost

Selecting the Right Compost

Use high-quality, well-aged compost, ideally a mix of straw, manure, and organic materials. Fresh compost may need to age for several months.

Composting Process

  1. Gather Materials: Collect straw, grass clippings, kitchen scraps, and manure.
  2. Layering: Alternate layers of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials.
  3. Moisture and Aeration: Keep the compost moist and turn it regularly.
  4. Aging: Allow compost to decompose fully, which can take several months.

Pasteurizing the Compost

  1. Heat Treatment: Heat compost to 140°F (60°C) for one hour.
  2. Cooling: Let compost cool to room temperature.

Inoculating with Mushroom Spawn

  1. Mix Thoroughly: Mix mushroom spawn evenly into the compost.
  2. Fill Containers: Place the inoculated compost into containers or beds, maintaining a depth of 6-8 inches.

Setting Up for Mushroom Growth

Container Selection

Choose containers or beds based on your space and mushroom type:

  • Trays or Boxes: Shallow and easy to manage.
  • Buckets or Tubs: Deeper, holding more compost.
  • Raised Beds: Suitable for larger outdoor setups.

Maintaining Moisture and Humidity

  1. Covering: Use plastic sheets or humidity tents.
  2. Watering: Keep compost moist but not waterlogged, misting regularly.
  3. Humidity Levels: Aim for 85-95% humidity using a hygrometer.

Temperature Control

  1. Optimal Range: 55-75°F (13-24°C), depending on mushroom type.
  2. Monitoring: Use a thermometer and adjust conditions as needed.

Light Requirements

  1. Indirect Light: Avoid direct sunlight.
  2. Artificial Light: Use low-intensity light indoors if needed.

Air Circulation

  1. Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow to prevent mold.
  2. Clean Environment: Maintain cleanliness to avoid contaminants.

Maintenance and Monitoring

Regular Checks

  1. Daily Inspections: Check moisture, humidity, and temperature.
  2. Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments based on observations.

Contamination Prevention

  1. Clean Tools and Surfaces: Reduce the risk of contamination.
  2. Inspect for Mold: Remove affected areas promptly.
  3. Proper Ventilation: Maintain air circulation to prevent mold.

Managing Growth

  1. Monitoring Mycelium: Look for white, thread-like mycelium.
  2. Fruit Body Formation: Watch for mushrooms beginning to appear.

Adjusting Conditions

  1. Humidity: Increase misting if compost appears dry.
  2. Temperature: Adjust heaters or fans as needed.
  3. Light: Ensure consistent indirect light or use artificial lighting.

Documenting Progress

  1. Record Keeping: Log daily observations and adjustments.
  2. Photos: Track development visually to identify issues.

By following this guide and maintaining proper conditions, you can enjoy a successful mushroom harvest at home.