RECYCLING OF MUSHROOM PEAT CASING SOIL THROUGH A PLASTIC MESH

The objective of this research was to lower the cost of mushroom production through recycling peat soil by using a plastic mesh. Phase III compost was covered by a plastic mesh and the casing soil was spread on it. Mycelia penetrated the mesh and occupied casing soil as they did in casing without plastic mesh. Mean yield of mushroom collected over three flushes was not affected by plastic mesh. Piling of collected casing soil helped in decomposing of its remained mycelia from previous crop and bleaching it, brought down its EC to a desirable level. Reusing of treated peat soil did not have any effect on yield of next crop. Growers could therefore recycle it and use for next crop.