How to Grow Oyster Mushrooms at Home: Tips from an Ernakulam Farmer Earning Rs 12 Lakh/Month

If you have ever thought about growing mushrooms at home, Jithu Thomas, a successful mushroom farmer from Ernakulam, has some tips for beginners. According to him, oyster mushrooms are the best, to begin with, as they give quick results and a reasonable quantity. These mushrooms are ideal for newcomers as they offer an accessible entry point into mushroom farming with relatively little effort.

Jithu’s journey began when he was just 19-years-old, sowing mushroom seeds with his mother, Leena. Over time, their small passion project turned into Leena’s Mushroom Farm, a successful 1200 square-foot space that now produces 150-200 kg of mushrooms daily. Their monthly income from mushroom farming is over Rs 12 lakh.

For those looking to try their hand at oyster mushroom farming at home, this step-by-step guide can help with the initial stage:

Step 1: Start with quality seeds

According to Jithu, the first and most important step is to make sure you are using good-quality seeds. Whether you choose to buy them from experienced growers or order online, the quality of the seed determines a healthy and abundant crop. 

Choosing seeds from trusted suppliers will provide the best chance for success, and it sets the foundation for healthy mushroom growth.

Step 2: Begin small and take it slow

The mushroom farmer from Ernakulam emphasises starting on a manageable scale, especially when you are just getting the hang of things. He suggests using a small area of your home, such as a corridor or balcony, as the ideal location for your first growing attempt. 

This allows you to experiment and learn without committing significant space or resources to a larger-scale operation right away.

Step 3: Trial period: The first six months are central

Patience is the solution in the early stages. The farmer recommends treating the first six months as a learning phase. This timeframe allows you to understand the growing conditions, troubleshoot any challenges, and perfect your techniques. Only once you have gained confidence in the process should you consider expanding your operation.

Step 4: Be aware of the crop’s fragility

“There are many advantages to mushroom farming, including its shorter growing period. But that doesn’t mean it is an easy task. The crop is fragile and extremely sensitive. A minute change in temperature or the advent of pests can ruin the crop completely,” warns Jithu. 

Oyster mushrooms require a stable and controlled environment to grow. You should be vigilant and proactive in managing the conditions where your mushrooms are growing.

Step 5: Stay consistent

While oyster mushrooms grow relatively quickly, they still require careful attention and regular monitoring. You have to be consistent and follow all the steps initially for a successful harvest. Jithu and Leena’s farm had to endure floods and the pandemic, yet with proper planning and a scientific approach, they managed to stay afloat. 

For anyone starting, understanding that setbacks are part of the process and handling them with patience will set you up for long-term success.

Edited by Vidya Gowri

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