Button Mushroom Cultivation Technology（5）

Effective management of the fruiting phase is crucial for optimizing the yield and quality of Agaricus bisporus mushrooms. During the fruiting period, careful control of environmental conditions such as temperature, moisture, humidity, and ventilation ensures a healthy crop. Below are the key factors to consider for successful fruiting:

1. Temperature Management
During the fruiting period, the temperature of the substrate layer should be kept between 18°C and 21°C. To achieve this, the air temperature should generally range from 15°C to 18°C, with temperature fluctuations kept within a maximum difference of 3°C. Maintaining stable temperatures is essential for the proper development of mushroom primordia and subsequent fruiting.

2. Watering and Moisture Management
Watering plays a critical role in the development of mushroom fruiting bodies. When tiny white mushroom primordia, about the size of rice grains, begin to appear in the casing layer, it is necessary to begin watering. The total water amount should be around 2kg/m², applied in 8-10 intervals over a 2-day period. As the fruiting bodies grow to the size of a soybean, watering should continue, but with a reduced amount of approximately 1.5kg/m², applied in 6-8 intervals within the same 2-day period.

Once the fruiting bodies reach this stage, watering should continue with a lighter, more frequent approach. Ideally, watering should occur 1-2 times a day in small quantities until harvest. After each watering, it is important to stop irrigation for 2-3 days to allow the substrate to dry slightly before resuming the normal watering cycle.

3. Humidity Control
Maintaining high humidity in the mushroom room is vital for optimal fruiting. Air humidity should be kept between 80% and 95%. Proper humidity levels support mushroom development and prevent dehydration, which can stunt growth and reduce the overall yield.

4. Ventilation
Good ventilation is essential for removing excess carbon dioxide and ensuring fresh air supply. Ventilation should be carried out when the difference in temperature between the inside and outside of the mushroom room is minimal. On warm, rainy, or foggy days, ventilation can be carried out throughout the day. However, care should be taken to avoid allowing dry, hot, or cold air to directly blow onto the mushroom beds, as this can cause discoloration and affect the quality of the mushrooms.

Proper management of temperature, moisture, humidity, and ventilation is key to ensuring a successful fruiting cycle for Agaricus bisporus. Consistent monitoring and adjustments to these factors will help achieve high-quality mushrooms with optimal yields.