Question

Write in proper sequence the five major steps in the cultivation of common edible mushrooms.

Answer 1

The cultivation of common edible mushroom involves five major steps-

1. $\underset{–}{\text{Compositing}}$ : Prepare the compost for which organic matter is required.
2. $\underset{–}{\text{Spawning}}$ : ‘Mushroom seed’ consisting of mycelium is introduced into the compost.
3. $\underset{–}{\text{Casing}}$ : A thin layer of soil is spread over the compost.
4. $\underset{–}{\text{Cropping and harvesting}}$ : it occurs in three principal stages:

• Mycelium(a network of fibrous mass) grows within 2-6 weeks.
• Tiny pin head stage
• Button stage, which is marked by an increase in the mushroom size and full grown mushrooms are taken out.

5. $\underset{–}{\text{Preservation}}$ : Mushrooms have a very short shelf life. Their shelf life is increased by following processes-

• Vacuum cooling
• Freeze drying in a solution of citric acid, etc.

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