Perfect Temperature for Mushrooms Quiz

Discover key temperature factors that influence successful mushroom fruiting in horticulture. This quiz explores optimal conditions and common misconceptions about growing edible fungi.

1. Optimal Fruiting Temperature

   What is the ideal temperature range for fruiting most common edible mushrooms like the white button mushroom?

   1. 2-4°C (35-40°F)
   2. 16-18°C (60-65°F)
   3. 45-50°C (113-122°F)
   4. 28-32°C (82-90°F)

   Explanation: Most edible mushrooms fruit best at cool temperatures, typically between 16-18°C (60-65°F). Temperatures much lower (like 2-4°C) are too cold and can halt growth. Higher ranges like 28-32°C or 45-50°C are too warm, risking contamination or stunted development.

2. Temperature and Mushroom Yield

   If the fruiting room for oyster mushrooms stays consistently above 25°C (77°F), what is most likely to happen?

   1. Faster and better pinning
   2. No effect since temperature does not matter
   3. Lower yields and possible misshapen mushrooms
   4. Larger, healthier mushrooms

   Explanation: Oyster mushrooms fruit best at moderate temperatures; too much warmth can lead to reduced yield and malformed caps. High temperatures do not improve pinning or size. The last option is incorrect as temperature significantly affects mushroom growth.

3. Temperature Fluctuation Impact

   What effect do large daily temperature swings have on the fruiting of shiitake mushrooms?

   1. They always boost production
   2. They make mushrooms poisonous
   3. They can cause irregular fruiting and stress
   4. They have no influence whatsoever

   Explanation: Sudden or large temperature fluctuations can physically stress mushrooms, resulting in unpredictable or poor yields. Boosting production is rarely the case, and temperature changes alone do not make mushrooms poisonous. Ignoring temperature impact is incorrect.

4. Low Temperature Scenario

   If a grower keeps the fruiting chamber at 5°C (41°F) for portobello mushrooms, what is a likely outcome?

   1. Slowed or halted fruiting
   2. Brighter spore color
   3. Rapid and abundant fruiting
   4. Changes only in mushroom taste

   Explanation: 5°C (41°F) is below the optimal temperature for portobello fruiting, causing slow or no mushroom development. These conditions do not enhance fruiting, affect spore color, or specifically alter taste.

5. Species Variation in Temperature Needs

   Which of the following mushrooms typically requires the highest fruiting temperature?

   1. Enoki (Flammulina velutipes)
   2. White button (Agaricus bisporus)
   3. King oyster (Pleurotus eryngii)
   4. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

   Explanation: King oyster mushrooms can fruit at slightly warmer temperatures compared to others listed. Enoki and white button both prefer cooler conditions, while shiitake also fruits best at moderate to cool temperatures.