To start a successful small-scale mushroom business, focus on cultivation techniques and market demand. Gather knowledge about mushroom varieties, growing requirements, and harvesting techniques to earn profit. Start with oyster mushrooms. You need land for the business. 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.
The industry was $46 billion in 2020 with an expected growth rate at 9.5% from 2021-2028. Mushrooms have a short 13 day shelf life after harvest. 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.
Oyster mushrooms are one of the most profitable varieties available and are in high demand. Growing takes about six weeks from start to harvest for profit quickly. Oyster mushrooms require 20 – 30 degree C temperature and 55-70 percent humidity for 6 – 8 months per year. In hilly areas the best growing season is March or April to September or October. On plane lands, the ideal period is September or October to March or April. Frequent harvesting allows early income. Careful management is key for good yields in small or large operations.
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. The main costs are ventilation, temperature control, concrete floors, and outdoor space.
- What are oyster mushrooms and how are they grown?
Oyster mushrooms grow on decayed wood. They also grow on straw, coffee grounds, and lumber waste. - When is the best time to start an oyster mushroom farm?
The best time varies with the location. In hilly areas, it’s usually March or April to September or October, whereas on plane lands it’s September or October to March or April.