An alternative method of nutrient supplementation in the cultivation of the common mushroom Agaricus bisporus

Abstract

Addition of cottonseed meal to the casing material, rather than to the compost, was examined as an alternative method of nutrient supplementation in the cultivation of the common mushroom Agaricus bisporus. Formaldehyde and calcium sulfate were used independently to prepare delayed release supplement. Casing supplementation significantly (Pv0.05) increased mushroom production (by 0.5-52% in the different trials) and required significantly less nutrient than compost supplementation. It did not result in the increased compost temperature from microbial thermogenesis that is associated with compost supplementation. A supplementation rate of 6 or 8% (on a fresh weight basis) could be recommended. Increases in mushroom yield from the use of formaldehyde and calcium sulfate were not significantly different but calcium sulfate treatment is quicker and less hazardous than formaldehyde treatment.