Substrate-driven variations in growth, productivity and quality of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

The present investigation was carried out to assess the influence of different agro-waste substrates on the growth and yield performance of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) under controlled conditions. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design comprising thirteen treatments involving various lignocellulosic substrates and their combinations. The results revealed statistically significant differences among treatments for all the parameters evaluated. Among the substrates, wheat straw demonstrated superior performance by recording the shortest duration for spawn run (12.18 days), pinhead initiation (15.27 days) and first harvest (19.34 days), indicating rapid mycelial colonization and early fructification. Yield attributes were markedly influenced by substrate type, wherein wheat straw registered the highest number of fruiting bodies (28.52), average fruit body weight (13.76 g), total yield (392.68 g per bag) and biological efficiency (98.17%), and was found to be significantly superior over other treatments. The treatment comprising paddy straw and wheat straw (1:1) and the enriched substrate also exhibited comparatively higher yield performance. In contrast, sawdust substrate resulted in significantly lower yield (189.43 g per bag) and biological efficiency (47.28%), along with delayed growth. The enhanced performance of wheat straw may be attributed to its favorable lignocellulosic composition, optimal aeration and moisture retention capacity, which collectively facilitate efficient mycelial proliferation and higher productivity. The findings of the study indicate that wheat straw is the most suitable substrate for maximizing growth and yield of oyster mushroom, while other agro-waste substrates may be utilized as viable alternatives for sustainable mushroom production.