Hericium, also known as Lion's Mane mushroom, is a popular edible fungus renowned for its unique flavor and health benefits. In recent years, the artificial cultivation of Hericium erinaceus has been expanding rapidly, leading to increased production. This article provides a detailed guide on the cultivation techniques for this valuable mushroom.
1. **Selection of Raw Materials**
The primary ingredients used in Hericium cultivation are fresh sawdust or cottonseed hulls. If the raw materials are not fresh, they should be sun-dried for 2-3 days before use. For large-scale production, it's best to prepare all materials at once and store them in a dry, well-ventilated area. A common mix includes 65% sawdust, 30% rice bran, and 5% garden soil. Additional nutrients such as 1% sugar, 0.2% urea, 0.3% ammonium nitrate, 0.5% magnesium sulfate, 2% gypsum, 1% superphosphate, and 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate are added. Water is then mixed in a ratio of 1:1.2 to 1.3, and 0.01% potassium permanganate is added to prevent contamination. The moisture content should reach around 60%, and the pH should be adjusted to 5.5–6. If using cottonseed hulls, a mixture of 90% cottonseed hulls, 3% farmland soil, 5% wheat bran, 1% ginseng, and 1% sucrose is recommended, with a water ratio of 1:1.4. Mixing should be done thoroughly to ensure even distribution of nutrients.
2. **Bagging and Sealing**
Polypropylene bags are cut into 50–60 cm widths and folded into tubes using a heat sealer. Once sealed, the bags must be tightly closed to prevent contamination. The prepared substrate is then filled into the bags, compacted slightly, and tied with a string to maintain a cylindrical shape. This helps in easier handling during cultivation and ensures proper air exchange.
3. **Sterilization and Inoculation**
The filled bags are sterilized in an autoclave or pressure cooker. Typically, atmospheric steam sterilization is carried out at 100°C for 6–8 hours. After sterilization, the bags are cooled to around 20°C before inoculation. High-quality, uncontaminated mycelium is selected and introduced into the bags in a sterile environment. The inoculation process should be quick and precise to avoid bacterial contamination. Each bag is inoculated with approximately 25–50g of culture, followed by sealing the bag with a cotton plug to allow oxygen flow while preventing contamination.
4. **Cultivation and Management**
Once inoculated, the bags are placed in a controlled environment with a temperature between 25–30°C. Mycelium development usually takes 30–35 days. Growth slows below 12°C, and temperatures above 33°C may hinder development. When fruit bodies begin to form, the temperature should be lowered to 18–28°C, ideally 20–23°C, for optimal growth. Small holes can be made in the plastic film or the bag opened slightly to improve airflow. Ventilation is crucial, with windows opened twice daily for 15–20 minutes each time. Humidity should be maintained at 90–95% during fruiting, while 10–20% is sufficient during mycelium growth. Low humidity leads to poor fruit body development, while high humidity may cause deformities. Light is essential for fruiting, though direct sunlight should be avoided. Scattered light is ideal. Regular misting helps increase yield.
5. **Harvesting**
The mushrooms are ready for harvest when the fruit body is fully developed, with white, soft spines about 1 cm long. To harvest, gently press the bag with one hand and carefully remove the fruit body with the other, ensuring the stem is not left too high to prevent spoilage. Proper harvesting techniques help maintain quality and reduce the risk of contamination.
Hericium erinaceus thrives in cool, humid conditions, making autumn the ideal season for cultivation. However, with proper environmental control, it can be successfully grown year-round. By following these techniques, growers can achieve healthy, high-yield crops of this nutritious and valuable mushroom.
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