To start a successful small-scale mushroom business, focus on cultivation techniques and market demand first. Gather knowledge about mushroom varieties, requirements for growing, and harvesting techniques to earn more profit. Some good varieties to start with are oyster mushrooms.
Land and Production
You need land for a mushroom farming business. A standard compost pile is six feet broad and six feet tall. Adding moisture might compact the pile’s contents, which is undesirable. In a one square meter area of mycelium, you can grow 30 kg of mushrooms. A 560 m^2 room can grow about 17 tons. Small mushrooms can grow in 1 day. Medium to larger mushrooms can grow in 3-4 days.
Financial Aspects
Startup costs range from $3,000-$100,000 depending on the initial operation size. It is low among starter crops. Home-based operations have lower costs than large ones. Main costs are for ventilation, temperature control, concrete floors, and outdoor space.
The mushroom industry was worth $46 billion in 2020. The growth rate is expected at 9.5% from 2021-2028. Mushrooms have a short 13-day shelf life after harvest.
Getting Started
You’ll need spawn to start the mushroom culture. Or buy ready inoculatable spawn from suppliers. Many growers use straw or wood chips as the substrate. With this guide, learn to set up a successful home mushroom business.
Oyster mushrooms are a good variety to start with, and they are relatively easy to sell due to their popularity and ease of cultivation.