Winter Shiitake Cultivation: Humidity Management
The relative humidity of the air in the mushroom shed is controlled between 85% and 95%, and is monitored by a dry and wet thermometer.
1、Principle
If the relative humidity is less than 70%, it will affect the growth of fruiting bodies; if the relative humidity is 100% for a long time, it will cause rotten mushrooms and diseases.
2、Management principles
In autumn and winter, water should be less but not too much. Excessive humidity can be reduced by increasing the temperature of the mushroom shed and extending the ventilation time.
Water replenishment measures: If the humidity is low, the humidity of the mushroom shed can be increased mainly by sprinkling water on the ground, spraying space, and spraying water on the walls.
During the process of replenishing water and humidifying, you need to pay attention to the following points: First, the water should be as consistent as the temperature of the mushroom shed as much as possible, and do not use cold water. Second, try not to spray water on the mushroom body, especially in the primordium and bud stages. Because the mushroom body is very delicate at this time, giving them a "cold water bath" will cause them to catch a cold, make them sick, or even kill them. Therefore, it is best to use a sprayer to replenish water, with the nozzle pointing upward and spraying into the space to increase humidity. Third, after replenishing water, if water droplets are found on the mushroom body, they should be removed through ventilation as quickly as possible, otherwise it will create conditions for bacterial reproduction and form disease spots on the mushroom body. Because bacteria reproduce very quickly, they may cause harm and affect the quality of mushrooms in just one night.
Note: Try not to spray water during the frost period in winter, just keep it moist and not dry out.