Utilizing Agrobyproducts: Potential Alternative Substrates for Cultivation of Lentinula edodes

This study evaluated six agrobyproducts (oak, jujube, apple, pear, peach, black locust) as alternative substrates for Lentinula edodes cultivation to mitigate oak dependency. Twelve substrate formulations were tested, including individual and mixed sawdust combinations. Results demonstrated successful mycelial colonization across all treatments, with treatment PAS (78% pear sawdust, 20% wheat bran, 1.5% gypsum, and 0.5% lime) exhibiting the fastest mycelial growth (4.70 mm/day) and full colonization in 105 days. Treatment BLS (78% black locust sawdust, 20% wheat bran, 1.5% gypsum, and 0.5% lime) achieved the highest biological efficiency (97.26%) and productivity (0.85 kg/bag). Nutrient analysis revealed substrate-specific enhancements: PAS maximized vitamin C (4.88 mg/100 g) and iron, while PAS + OS (39% peach sawdust, 39% oak sawdust, 20% wheat bran, 1.5% gypsum, and 0.5% lime) elevated protein (3.88%), phosphorus, and zinc. PCA highlighted distinct nutritional profiles for BLS- and jujube-based mushrooms. Correlation analyses identified the third (r = 0.838) and fourth flushes (r = 0.922) as critical for total yield, with selenium and zinc significantly linked to growth rates. Black locust and peach substrates outperformed or complemented oak, offering sustainable alternatives. These findings underscore the potential of agrowaste utilization to reduce ecological strain while maintaining high yields and nutritional quality, aligning with global agricultural sustainability goals.