At Shroomery, we take pride in transforming agricultural waste into the gourmet mushrooms that grace your plate. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how we sustainably grow our delicious oyster mushrooms in India.

Step 1: The Perfect Substrate – Wheat Straw

In North India, wheat straw is abundant. This agricultural byproduct, often used as cow fodder or burned by farmers, is the unsung hero of our mushroom farm. It serves as the ideal substrate for growing oyster mushrooms, packed with the nutrients they need. However, before we use it, the straw undergoes thorough preparation, much like prepping soil before planting seeds.

Step 2: Cleaning and Sterilizing – Our Innovative Solution

Cleanliness is essential in mushroom farming. To ensure our wheat straw is free from contaminants, we clean and sterilize it meticulously. Here's where our innovation shines: instead of drying the straw in the open (which risks re-infection by bacteria), we use a custom-designed washing machine drum! This device removes excess water using centrifugal force, speeding up the drying process and getting the straw ready for the next step.

Step 3: Inoculation – The Mushroom Seed Magic

Once the straw is dry, it’s time for inoculation. We evenly spread our carefully prepared mushroom spawn (the mushroom equivalent of seeds) throughout the straw. This step is crucial—ensuring even distribution allows the mycelium to colonize the straw effectively.

Step 4: Growth – Mycelium Takes Over

After inoculation, the straw-filled bags are left for about 15 days. During this period, the mycelium spreads through the straw, consuming nutrients and forming a dense network. Though hidden from view, this process is vital for the mushrooms’ development.

Step 5: Fruiting – The Mushrooms Emerge

Once the mycelium has fully colonized the straw, we create the ideal environment for fruiting. Oyster mushrooms require a delicate balance of temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and light. Soon, tiny pin-like formations appear, rapidly growing into full-sized oyster mushrooms.

Step 6: Harvesting – Fresh from Farm to Fork

Harvesting is simple yet satisfying. Gently twist the base of the mushroom cluster, and you have a fresh, beautiful oyster mushroom ready for cooking. What’s even better? Each bag can produce 2-3 more harvests, spaced about 7-10 days apart.

Step 7: Sustainability – A Full-Circle Process

Once the harvest cycle is complete, we don’t just discard the straw. It makes excellent mulch for gardens or can be used under trees to nourish plants. At Shroomery, we’re not only growing mushrooms but also supporting a sustainable cycle that benefits both your health and the planet.

So, next time you enjoy one of our oyster mushrooms, remember it’s more than just a tasty addition to your meal—it’s the result of innovation, sustainability, and a lot of love for both farming and the environment.

Shop Our Fresh White Oysters here