Amendments for Cultivation of Oyster Mushroom in Boxes or Plastic Bags

Organic waste can be managed and recycled as an alternative to other methods of disposal for cultivation of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida L). Oyster mushroom was grown on rice (Oriza sativa L.) straw alone (100:0), rice straw + peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) shell (75:25, 50:50, and 25:75 w/w), and peanut shell alone (0:100). Responses to cultivation in boxes or bags were determined. Total nitrogen, protein, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, and dry matter were measured. Mixing rice straw with peanut shell (75:25 w/w) increased antioxidant capacity, magnesium, and flavonoid contents of fruit bodies. The highest potassium, phosphorous, and calcium contents were from fruiting bodies developed from spawn grown on peanut shells alone. Peanut shells alone are not sufficient for use as a substrate and should be mixed with rice straw for adequate production of oyster mushroom when boxes are used for cultivation.