Mushrooms are a high value crop, and consumer demand has markedly
increased in recent years. Nowhere is this trend more clear than with
specialty mushrooms, such as oyster and shiitake. Although requiring
very different conditions and practices compared with more traditional
"green" crops, mushrooms are a viable option for the small-scale grower.
As with all ventures, however, research and strategy are essential if
you're hoping to make a profit as a mushroom grower.
Research Your Product
Growers
should have a thorough understanding of the biological requirements of
mushrooms, and especially which species is most suitable for the
environment that can be provided. Mushrooms have markedly different life
cycles than green plants, a shorter refrigerated shelf life than most,
and different pests. Production is extremely dependent on careful
control of moisture, air movement, light and temperature control --
which can be unreliable to depend on outdoors, and expensive to maintain
indoors.
Species Focus
Button
and oyster mushrooms are the easiest to grow, and can be integrated
into an existing garden facility or on their own "substrates"
(specialized growing medium), making them the best candidate for
small-scale commercial production. Shiitakes grow on decomposing
hardwood (typically oak), which will involve saws and safety equipment,
or at least sufficient space for synthetic or prepared logs. In general,
shiitakes require more attention to environmentally appropriate strains
and timed irrigation than button or oyster mushrooms, but none of these
will incur the same costs as other commercially grown edible fungi,
such as maitake (hen-of-the-woods), morels and truffles.
Market Conditions
Mushroom
farmers must be very aware of their market. While full-time growers can
dedicate their facilities to mushroom production, most small-scale
mushroom farming is more likely to provide merely supplemental income.
In general, the long-term indications have been largely favorable for
locally grown produce, with perennial growth of consumer interest in
gourmet and vegetarian cuisine. However, you'll need to carefully
analyze your own region for competition and economic conditions. There
is some potential for Internet sales and mail-order, although the
relative fragility and short shelf life of mushrooms narrow your options
considerably.
Market Analysis
A
careful analysis of your potential market is essential when deciding
whether to pursue a profit motive in mushroom growing. Mail-order and
Internet sales will extend your range, but most growers should
Investigate the potential for sales to locally owned groceries or
restaurants, direct sale at farmers markets (or on your website), and
involvement with a cooperative. Consider offering your product in a
variety of ways to compensate for a more competitive market, or simply
to add additional potential for revenue. This may include selling dried
or canned mushrooms, gift baskets and samplers, or prepared food items
such as soups and sauces.
How to Grow Mushrooms for Profit, Mushrooms, Mushrooms for Profit
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