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Hericium erinaceus fast-growing and high-yielding cultivation techniques
Hericium, commonly known as Lion's Mane mushroom, is a highly valued edible fungus renowned for its delicate flavor and health benefits. In recent years, with the continuous expansion of artificial cultivation areas, the production volume has significantly increased. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the cultivation techniques of Hericium erinaceus, covering key steps from preparation to harvesting.
1. **Raw Material Selection and Preparation**
To ensure high-quality growth, fresh and clean sawdust or cottonseed hulls are ideal raw materials. If the material is not fresh, it should be sun-dried for 2–3 days before use. For large-scale operations, it's best to prepare all materials at once and store them in a dry, well-ventilated area. A typical mix includes 65% sawdust (with appropriate proportions), 30% rice bran, and 5% garden soil. Additional nutrients such as 1% sugar, 0.2% urea, 0.3% ammonium nitrate, 0.5% magnesium sulfate, 2% gypsum, 1% superphosphate, and 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate are added. Water is then mixed at a ratio of 1:1.2 to 1.3, and 0.01% potassium permanganate is added to disinfect. The moisture content should reach about 60%, and the pH should be adjusted to 5.5–6. If using cottonseed hulls, a mix of 90% cottonseed hulls, 3% farmland soil, 5% wheat bran, 1% ginseng, and 1% sucrose can be used, with a water ratio of 1:1.4. Careful mixing ensures even distribution of nutrients and prevents excessive moisture, which could lead to nutrient loss and poor mycelium development. Adding potato juice or bean cake water can further enhance yield.
2. **Bagging and Sealing**
Polypropylene bags are cut into 50–60 cm wide and 26 cm long. After folding, they are sealed using a heat sealer to form a tight tube. Once filled with the prepared substrate, the bags are tied securely, forming a slightly flattened shape to facilitate handling and sterilization. Proper sealing is essential to prevent contamination.
3. **Sterilization and Inoculation**
The filled bags are placed in an autoclave or steam sterilizer. Sterilization typically takes 6–8 hours at 100°C. After cooling to around 20°C, the bags are inoculated in a sterile environment. High-quality, uncontaminated strains are selected and introduced using an inoculation hook. Each bag receives approximately 25–50g of culture. The bag mouths are then sealed with cotton plugs to allow for proper gas exchange and promote healthy mycelium growth.
4. **Cultivation and Management**
Once inoculated, the bags are moved to a controlled cultivation room. The temperature should be maintained between 25–30°C for optimal mycelium growth, which usually takes 30–35 days. Below 12°C, growth slows, and above 33°C, ventilation must be increased. When fruiting bodies begin to form, the temperature can be lowered to 18–28°C, ideally 20–23°C, for faster bud development. At this stage, small holes are made on the plastic film or the bag is opened slightly to allow better air circulation. Ventilation is crucial, with windows opened twice daily for 15–20 minutes each time. Humidity levels vary throughout the growth stages: 10–20% during mycelium growth and 90–95% during fruit body development. Low humidity leads to poor growth, while high humidity may cause deformed buds. Light is also important—Lion’s Mane mushrooms thrive under diffused light but not direct sunlight. Spraying water regularly helps maintain moisture and improve yield.
5. **Harvesting**
Hericium is ready for harvest when the fruit body is fully developed, with white, fluffy spines measuring about 1 cm in length. To avoid damage, gently press the bag with one hand while carefully twisting the fruit body downward with the other. Ensure that the stem is not left too long, as this can lead to spoilage and attract pests.
The best growing conditions occur in cool, humid autumn weather with plenty of rainfall. However, with proper environmental control, successful cultivation can be achieved year-round. By following these detailed techniques, growers can maximize yield and quality in their Hericium erinaceus cultivation.