mushroom cultivation and protein source.ppt

mushroom cultivation

1. 1

2. By
Dr. Aamer Sajjad
ARO Agronomy
Adaptive Research Farm,
Gujranwala
MUSHROOM CULTIVATION

3. MUSHROOM CULTIVATION
Mushroom cultivation in Punjab is an
emerging agribusiness
favorable climate and growing demand for
mushrooms, both locally and internationally.

4. Suitable Mushroom Varieties in
Punjab
• Oyster Mushrooms: Most commonly grown
due to ease of cultivation and adaptability to
Punjab’s climate.
• Button Mushrooms: Popular in the local
market but require more controlled
environments.

5. Climate Conditions
• Seasonal Cultivation: Mushrooms like oyster
grow well in cooler months (October to
March) in Punjab's natural climate.
• Controlled Environments: Using mushroom
tunnels or greenhouses with temperature (18-
24°C) and humidity control can extend the
growing season year-round.

6. Growing Medium (Substrate)
•Local Substrates: Wheat straw, rice husks, and
cotton waste are abundantly available and
commonly used as substrates.
•Sterilization: Substrates should be pasteurized
or sterilized to remove contaminants, a critical
step for successful cultivation.

7. Inoculation and Incubation
•Spawn Sources: Mushroom spawn can be
purchased from agricultural research
institutes like the University of Agriculture,
Faisalabad or local suppliers.
• Incubation: Keep inoculated substrates in
dark, warm conditions for mycelium growth,
ensuring high humidity (80-90%).

8. Government Support and Training
•Agricultural Departments: The Punjab
Agriculture Department offers support and
guidance for mushroom farming, including
training programs for beginners.
•Subsidies and Loans: Various schemes and
loans are available for farmers looking to start
mushroom cultivation.

9. Marketing and Sales
•Local Market: Mushrooms are sold fresh in
urban areas like Lahore, Faisalabad, and
Islamabad, where demand is rising.
• Export Potential: Pakistan has a growing
export market for dried and processed
mushrooms, particularly in the Middle East
and Southeast Asia.

10. Challenges
• Lack of Awareness: Many farmers are
unaware of mushroom cultivation techniques,
but interest is growing due to training
programs.
• Climate Control Costs: Setting up climate-
controlled tunnels or greenhouses can require
a significant initial investment.

11. Benefits

• High Profit Margins: Mushrooms offer a high
return on investment due to low input costs and
growing demand.
• Sustainable Farming: Mushrooms can be
cultivated using agricultural waste products,
making it an eco-friendly option.