Dead mushroom causes and countermeasures
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The aging of mushroom mycelium can be a significant issue, especially if the strain is too old or the temperature during its production is too high. Improper storage conditions and long-term preservation can also lead to mycelial degradation, reduced viability, and a lack of nutrient accumulation, ultimately resulting in weak or dead mushroom buds. To address this, it's essential to select high-quality strains and promptly remove any contaminated ones. Ensure optimal growing conditions for the mycelium by maintaining clean, well-ventilated indoor environments and avoiding high-temperature cultures. Use strains as soon as possible and avoid long-term storage.
During the early stages of mushroom fruiting, if the temperature exceeds 20°C, it can cause excessive evaporation of moisture from the substrate, leading to insufficient water and nutrients for the developing mushrooms. Poor ventilation can worsen this situation, causing small buds to wither and die. To prevent this, closely monitor weather changes and adjust greenhouse temperatures accordingly. Enhance ventilation to avoid heat buildup during the fruiting period.
Poor ventilation in the mushroom house can lead to a buildup of metabolic gases, such as carbon dioxide, which can exceed safe levels (above 0.1%). This oxygen deficiency can hinder fruiting body development and even cause mushrooms to die. In high-temperature conditions, the problem becomes more severe. Regular ventilation—typically two to three times daily—is crucial. It’s best to ventilate during cooler periods, such as early morning or evening, to maintain a healthy environment.
Improper watering practices can also lead to dead mushrooms. If the cover soil isn't replenished in time or if water is sprayed too heavily, it can cause bud death. During the fruiting stage, when the white fruit bodies are about the size of rice grains, misting should be light, with fine droplets and minimal water to avoid soaking the substrate. As the fruit bodies grow to the size of beans, increase the spray volume and frequency. After each watering, ensure proper air circulation to reduce humidity and prevent over-saturation.
Mushrooms require a pH level between 6 and 8 for optimal mycelial growth. If the pH of the soil or spray water falls below 5 or above 9, it can lead to bud death. Before planting, prepare the culture material and cover soil according to specifications. Test the pH of the substrate and spray water regularly, adjusting the water’s pH as needed to avoid damage caused by overly acidic or alkaline conditions.
Common diseases such as rust spots and dry rot, along with pests like red spiders, fungus gnats, and flies, can harm mushrooms or reduce their quality. Overuse of pesticides can also cause mushroom death. To manage these issues, follow an integrated pest management approach, focusing on prevention through clean materials, proper soil treatment, and maintaining a disease-free environment. Remove infected or dead mushrooms promptly and use appropriate treatments to stop the spread of pathogens.
Lastly, physical damage during harvesting can also lead to dead mushrooms. When the first and second flushes produce dense mushrooms, shaking or mechanical handling can cause some to die. Always handle mushrooms gently during picking to avoid unnecessary damage.