Growing mushrooms in clay pots is an excellent eco-friendly solution. Dr. S K Bairwa, an agricultural expert from the Agricultural Research Centre in Sriganganagar, Rajasthan, explains the process in detail.
While there are various ways to grow them, one of the most unusual ways to grow mushrooms is in a hanging clay pot. Clay pots are used in the majority of Indian homes, and they are occasionally discarded due to damage. These discarded pots can be used to grow mushrooms for personal use or for commercial purposes.
The approach was developed by Dr. S K Bairwa, an agricultural expert from the Agricultural Research Centre in Sriganganagar, Rajasthan. He began experimenting in 2020, and the results were fantastic. Dr Bairwa told The Better India that he came up with the idea as a way to cultivate the item without affecting the environment. "Mushrooms are commonly grown in plastic containers. The plastics are then discarded, which is wasteful. Growing them in pots over the summer is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option."
This method, however, can only be used to grow oyster mushrooms. "The same techniques for making them in plastic bags are used." Dr. Bairwa adds, "Only the medium changes."
He says that the first and most important requirement for growing mushrooms is dry straw. Green ones should never be picked. Soak them overnight after cutting them into 6-7 inch pieces. After that, boil them in hot water and then air dry them. Make sure the straw is totally dry before using it. When buying seeds, pay close attention. Amazon or the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra are both viable options.
How to Grow Mushrooms in A Pot? Step by Step Guide:
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Keep the matka (clay pot) ready. Don't be worried if it's cracked or has holes.
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Make little holes all around the pot, including the bottom, with a drilling machine.
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Add dried straw to the pot.
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Meanwhile, depending on the size of the pot, add the mushroom seeds.
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Tape or cotton can be used to close the holes.
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Tie a cloth or sack over the pot's neck to keep the moisture inside.
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For 12 to 15 days, keep them in a dark room.
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Ensure that no sunlight enters the container and that the lids are not opened when drinking water.
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After 15 days, you can see the seeds sprouting.
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Open the cloth cover after three weeks to find mushroom buds inside.
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They'll come later through the little holes. This is the moment to hang the pots from the ceiling.
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The mushrooms are ready to pick after a week.
