About Mushroom Cultivation

Mushrooms are macro fungi with characteristic fruiting bodies which are large enough to be seen with naked eyes and picked by hands. During its growth, a mushroom can decompose organic materials and absorb nutrients from it. Mushrooms are being used as food and medicine from ancient times. Mushroom contains all essential amino acids, vitamin B complex, iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, folic acid and other biochemical compounds. It is also a good source of dietary fibre. It is regarded as highly edible even for people suffering from cholesterol problems, heart diseases, diabetes and cancer. Mushrooms are commonly used for various dishes in different shapes and forms.

Mushrooms can be found in forests around the world. Given the proper environment, mushrooms can grow and can offer a good source of natural vitamins and minerals.

Mushroom cultivation has now become a source for income generation since there is a large demand for healthy and quality food products. Many value added products are also obtained from mushrooms. The cultivation procedure is characterized by small initial investment and year round production. It is an eco-friendly agricultural practice.

Mushrooms can also cause illness and even death to people who are unaware of certain types of wild mushrooms. Cultivated mushrooms are, therefore, to be preferred and are the most reliable source of supply.

Considering the commercial viability and self-employment potential of mushroom cultivation and marketing, the Department of Botany offers the same as an add on certificate course to the under graduate students of the College.