EFFECT OF TEXTURAL ATTRIBUTES OF TREE SAWDUST SUBSTRATES ON PLEUROTUS OYSTER MUSHROOM PRODUCTION

Abstract Optimizing growth conditions for oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus sajor-caju) is crucial for enhancing their nutritional and economic value. Moreover, impact of different tree sawdust substrates on their productivity under climatic condition of Arakan, Cotabato, Philippines, remains underexplored. Hence, this study evaluated coconut, rubber, and gmelina sawdust substrates as organic media. Using a two-factor completely randomized design with three treatments and four replications, sawdust texture (Factor A) and tree substrates (Factor B) were assessed. Fine sawdust significantly improved growth parameters except for stalk length, with all tree substrates showing highly significant effects. The interaction of these factors yielded significant outcomes, except for the number of flushes and stalk length. Fine-textured sawdust, particularly from coconut and rubber trees, was optimal for enhancing mycelial length, reducing days to flush, increasing stalk length, cap circumference, fruit weight, and overall yield. Fine-textured sawdust from coconut and rubber reduced flushing time by 55.05% and increased flushes by 57.18%, resulting in the highest net revenues of 1970.45 and 1500.95 pesos, respectively. Conducted under temperatures averaging 29°C and 22°C, these findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate sawdust texture and tree substrates to maximize Pleurotus productivity, providing valuable insights for mushroom producers to boost output and profitability.