Marvels of Mushroom Farming Quiz Quiz

Explore key principles, methods, and facts about mushroom cultivation in horticulture. Challenge your knowledge on substrate choices, environmental needs, and practical techniques for bountiful mushroom crops.

1. Ideal Substrate Selection

   Which substrate is most commonly used for commercial cultivation of button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)?

   1. Peat moss alone
   2. Plain sawdust
   3. Compost enriched with manure
   4. Sterilized sand

   Explanation: Compost enriched with manure provides the necessary nutrients and structure for button mushroom growth. Sterilized sand and plain sawdust do not supply sufficient nutrients, while peat moss is mainly used as a casing layer rather than the primary substrate for this species.

2. Environmental Control

   During spawn run, what is the optimal temperature range for growing oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus spp.)?

   1. 5–10°C
   2. 50–60°C
   3. 20–28°C
   4. 35–40°C

   Explanation: Oyster mushrooms thrive during spawn run at temperatures between 20 and 28°C. Higher temperatures (35–40°C, 50–60°C) can hinder or kill mycelial growth, while lower temperatures (5–10°C) slow or stop fungal development.

3. Role of Casing Layer

   What is the main function of applying a casing layer in mushroom cultivation?

   1. Preventing all pests
   2. Retaining moisture and triggering fruiting
   3. Providing additional nutrients
   4. Increasing substrate depth

   Explanation: A casing layer mainly helps retain moisture and induces fruiting by creating optimal surface conditions. It is not meant to add nutrients (the substrate provides this), nor does it prevent all pests or significantly increase the overall depth of the substrate.

4. Spawn Preparation

   Which material is typically used as the base for preparing grain spawn for mushrooms?

   1. Uncooked corn cobs
   2. Shredded coconut husk
   3. Raw green leaves
   4. Boiled rye or wheat grains

   Explanation: Boiled rye or wheat grains are commonly used due to their nutrient content and ability to support rapid mycelial colonization. Shredded coconut husk, raw green leaves, and uncooked corn cobs are less suitable for reliable spawn preparation.

5. Harvesting Time

   When is the ideal time to harvest most cultivated mushrooms for maximum quality?

   1. When caps are fully developed but before spore release
   2. Right after the substrate is inoculated
   3. When tiny pins first appear
   4. After the mushrooms have dried on the substrate

   Explanation: Harvesting mushrooms just before spore release ensures the best texture and flavor. Picking too early (pins) or after drying reduces yield and quality, and harvesting after inoculation is impractical since mushrooms have yet to grow.