Enhancing Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus Ostreatus) Yield Through Three Substrate Variations: A Comparative Study

This study explores the optimization of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) cultivation through the experimental variation of substrates, aiming to enhance yield. A comparative analysis of three (3) substrates was analyzed for their efficacy in supporting mushroom growth. The study used a descriptive approach, systematically documenting and analyzing the effects of different substrate compositions on mushroom yield, height, and stem thickness. This experimental approach was used to conduct a comparative analysis of various substrate compositions for mushroom cultivation. The experiment was conducted at Central Philippines State University – Murcia Campus, Negros Island Region, Philippines, from October 2023 to January 2024. While the data shows that Substrate B (63 % of rice straw (chopped ), 10 % of Vermicast, 27 % of sawdust (decomposed) is more efficient than Substrate A (Saw dust 79 %, Lime 1 %, Molasses 5 %, Rice bran 15 %), leading to better outcomes in both mushroom height and stem thickness, Substrate C (Rice straw -50 %, Saw dust-30 %, Forest top soil-20 %) produced the highest yield in its efficiency likely influenced by the specific composition and balance of the substrate. The improved performance of Substrate C may not solely be due to the presence of one factor but also to other factors, such as nutrient availability, moisture retention, and microbial activity, which are affected by the precise combination of ingredients. Differences in components like vermicast, sawdust, or rice bran can significantly impact how the substrate performs overall. Thus, while Substrate C demonstrated superior efficiency in this instance, variations in the composition and proportions of these additional ingredients could play a crucial role in determining yield outcomes. This study suggests that optimizing substrate performance is complex and requires a careful balance of multiple factors to achieve consistent results. Lastly, mushroom farming requires extra time, patience, and proper care to ensure successful growth. Farmers must be diligent in maintaining these factors throughout the growth cycle, as mushrooms are delicate and require constant attention for a healthy, productive harvest. While having the perfect substrate is essential for mushroom cultivation, it does not guarantee a bigger or more abundant yield. Key words: Pleurotus ostreatus, yield enhancement, substrate variations, comparative study, substrate variation