Shitake Mushroom Farming
Shiitake ( Lentinus edodus ) is a newly introduced mushroom in Nepal. Because of its high profit, low labour and land requirements compared to Pleurotus and Agaricus it gaining popularity among farmers. Alnus and Castonopsis are the most suitable woods available in Nepal for shiitake mushrooms production.The logs are planted with the spores in spring and after the mycelium has grown through the wood, fruit bodies of shiitake begin to grow out on the logs. With this method, steady production is obtained. Shiitake production is started from October to November and will continue up to 3–6 years, depending upon care. The demand for the mushroom is very high and the current production is not sufficient. Shiitake may be used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes and is valued for its full-bodied flavour, dark colour, and meaty texture. In 2014, wholesale market prices for shiitake ranged from NPR 500 to NPR 850 per kilogr...