Mushrooms Have Needs Too…

Intro

Mushrooms have a rep for growing anywhere, even where they aren’t welcome. But don’t be fooled, mushrooms have needs too. Mushrooms are an attractive crop among farmers due to their adaptability that provides a quick return on investment and year-round harvest. As mushroom consumers, we have high expectations of the taste and quality so it only makes sense that growers must create an ideal environment for them to thrive in. More specifically, an environment with controlled humidity.

Issues Faced Without Controlled Humidity

• There are detrimental effects to the growth of mushrooms with too little or too much of humidity
• Mushrooms are 90% water; dry air causes the mushroom to lose too much water and weight
• Too much humidity causes browning/yellowing of the caps of mushrooms
• A total lack of humidity will cause mushrooms to stall, form cracks, and discolor

Mushrooms Demand, We Supply

Contrary to the stereotype, mushrooms are highly sensitive to changes in their environment, and maintaining a consistent level of humidity plays a crucial role in their development. Mushrooms absorb water through their cell walls and these walls are sensitive to humidity. Too little humidity will cause the mushroom to dry out and not develop properly. On the other hand, too much humidity promotes the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi that can compete with the mushroom itself for resources and cause disease.

So, this may lead you to ask, “How do you navigate between the too little and too much line?”. We cannot give a definitive answer for all mushrooms out there as different species have different needs, but generally, the ideal humidity level for mushroom cultivation is between 85% and 95%. Farmers use various methods to maintain optimal growing conditions including misting, watering, and placing humidifiers.

Ikeuchi offers an energy-efficient and compact solution. AKIMist_®E allows you to control humidity levels accurately within large spaces and targeted spaces. Available to install with a hanging down kit, wall mount kit, or portable model.

Benefits include:

• Higher mushroom output
• Reduced risk of bacteria and fungi
• Larger, more uniform mushrooms
• Energy efficient

It’s important to note that humidity is not the only need mushrooms have. Other factors like temperature, lighting, substrate, and ventilation have an impact on the growth of mushrooms.

AKIMist_®E Features Summarized

• Water humidification system with no threat of wetting materials and equipment
• Prevents static electricity in facilities
• Easy installation: Add to existing HVAC
• Adaptable to any layout
• Humidifies AND cools
• Reduces product loss during production
• Improves product quality
• Low maintenance