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.
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.
Mushroom Growth Potential
In a one square meter area of mycelium, you can grow 30 kg of mushrooms. A 560 m2 room can grow about 17 tons. Small mushrooms can grow in 1 day. Medium to larger mushrooms can grow in 3-4 days.
Market Size and Home Farming
The mushroom industry was valued at $46 billion in 2020, with a growth rate expected at 9.5% from 2021-2028. Mushrooms have a short 13-day shelf life after harvest.
Financial Requirements
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.
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.
The easiest variety of mushroom to sell would be the oyster mushrooms, due to their popularity and ease of cultivation.