White Milky Mushroom (Calocybe indica )

Milky mushroom, otherwise known as summer mushroom, is a long sized, white and attractive mushroom of India. This is a tropical mushroom like paddy straw mushroom. Artificial cultivation started as early as 1976 in the state of West Bengal. Now, this mushroom has gained popularity in the states of Karnatak, Tamilnadu, Kerala and Andhra Prodesh. The climatic condition of these states including Odisha is suitable for milky mushroom cultivation from March to October. However, in some states this has not been commercialized yet because of the preference of paddy straw mushroom by the people. At present efforts are on to popularize milky mushroom in India like paddy straw and oyster mushroom.

Attributes:

·    The mushroom is bright white in colour and attractive

·    Different types of cellulosic wastes can be used as basal substrate.

·    The cultivation procedure is simple and easy

·    Productivity is higher – 80 to 100 %

·    Milky mushroom has good self life. Fruit bodies can be stored for 3-4 days in ambient condition.

·     Fresh mushroom can be exported.

Temperature : 

Milky Mushroom can be grown in the temperature range of 250 - 400C. However, for best yields, 250 - 350C is necessary. Hence, this mushroom can be cultivated from the month of March to October in major states of India. During summer months, it may be necessary to bring down the temperature and to improve the relative humidity for obtaining higher yields.

Relative humidity :

Atmospheric relative humidity should be in the range of 80 – 85 %. Under low humidity, young fruit bodies dry up or the upper surface of the mushroom becomes rough.

Light :

During fruiting, low light(200 lux) is necessary. However during the mycelium growth period, light requirement is still minimal.

Ventilation :

During fruiting stage, more oxygen is required and therefore, bags are kept in a well-ventilated room.