Description
Calcium hydroxide – Mushroom Cultivation
How to do cold Water Lime Pasteurization for mushroom?
Cold water lime pasteurization is a method used to sterilize substrates used for mushroom cultivation. The process involves soaking the substrate in cold water mixed with lime for an extended period of time, typically 24 to 48 hours.
The lime raises the pH of the water, making it inhospitable for most microorganisms and pathogens, while the cold water slows down the growth of any remaining organisms. The high pH also helps to breakdown the lignin in the substrate which makes it more suitable for mushroom growth.
This method can be used with a variety of different substrates, such as straw, sawdust, and grain, and is particularly effective for pasteurizing straw, which is commonly used as a substrate for growing mushrooms such as Agaricus bisporus (white button mushrooms) and Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushrooms).
It is also considered as a safe and environmentally friendly method compared to other pasteurization methods like steam pasteurization which require much higher temperature and pressure.
It's also worth mentioning that it is important to note that pasteurization alone may not be sufficient to eliminate all pathogens and contaminants, it is recommended to use this method in conjunction with other measures, like sterilization or adding beneficial microorganisms.
Various Weights – 250g – 500g – 1kg
What substance is use for Cold Water Lime Pasteurization?
In cold water lime pasteurization, the main substance used is lime, which is usually in the form of calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). Lime is added to cold water to create a solution that is high in pH, typically around 12-13. This high pH level is hostile to most pathogens, making it an effective method for sterilizing mushroom cultivation substrates.
What amount I should use?
The amount of lime used can vary depending on the type of substrate being pasteurized and the desired pH level. Generally, the recommendation is to use around 2-5% lime by weight of the dry substrate. It is important to note that using too much lime can cause the substrate to become too alkaline, which can inhibit the growth of mushrooms.
Other substances are also sometimes added to the cold water lime solution to improve the effectiveness of the pasteurization process or to adjust the nutritional value of the substrate. For example, gypsum (calcium sulfate) can be added to the solution to help break down the lignin in the substrate, which makes it more suitable for mushroom growth. Other vitamins, minerals and microorganisms can also be added to the solution, like Vitamin B and beneficial mycorrhizal fungi.
After pasteurization, the substrate should be drained and left to cool before it is used for mushroom cultivation.
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