Performance of Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum [Fr.] Karst) using Different Spawn Substrates

Abstract

Spawn production is an essential aspect in mushroom cultivation. This involves the induction of mushroom mycelial development in growing medium under controlled conditions. This study aimed to investigate the performance and economic profitability of Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum [Fr.] Karst) cultivation in response to different spawn substrates. The study was laid out in Completely Randomized Design with six spawn grain substrates as treatments. Results revealed that the shortest time to full mycelial colonization among the different spawn grains at 50, 75 and 100% mycelial spawn run was in corn kernels. However, fruiting bags seeded with sorghum spawn grains significantly showed the earliest time (28.33 days) to full colonization and also produced the highest number of fruiting bodies. Moreover, fruiting bags seeded with sorghum grains produced the highest mushroom yield and consequently recorded the highest profit and return of investment. As per findings, sorghum grains as spawn substrate can be used for rapid mycelial growth, high yield and low cost of reishi mushroom spawn production. When not available, corn kernels or adlay grains may be used as substitute substrates for mushroom spawn production.