Milky mushroom (Calocybe indica )is one of the most popular edible mushrooms in India. Known for its attractive white color, long shelf life, and rich nutritional profile, it has become a favorite among farmers and consumers alike. Unlike oyster mushrooms, milky mushrooms require warm and humid conditions, making them perfect for tropical and subtropical regions. Let’s dive into how you can cultivate them successfully.
Why Choose Milky Mushroom?
High Market Demand: Consumers love its taste and firm texture.
Nutritious: Rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
Suitable for Indian Climate : Grows well in 25–35°C with high humidity perfect during rainy season in India
Profitable: Can be cultivated with low investment and simple infrastructure.
Step-by-Step Cultivation Process
1. Substrate Preparation
The substrate is the base on which mushrooms grow. Milky mushrooms prefer:
Paddy straw (most common)
Wheat straw
Preparation method:
Cut straw into 3–5 cm pieces.
Soak in clean water for 6–8 hours.
Pasteurize either by boiling (1 hour) or steaming (60–90 minutes) Drain excess water and allow cooling.
2. Spawning (Inoculation)
Spread one layer of substrate in polythene bags (14× 24 inch).
Add a thin layer of mushroom spawn.
Repeat layering until the bag is full, ending with the substrate layer.
Tie the bag tightly and make small holes for aeration.
3. Spawn Run (Incubation)
Keep the bags in a dark room at 25–30°C with 70–80% humidity
Within 15–20 days, the mycelium will spread completely, turning the straw white.
4. Bed Preparation
Remove the plastic bag carefully.
Place the colonized block in a humid room on racks or raised platforms. Cover with a thin casing layer of sterilized coco peat and sand mixture (3–4 cm).
Maintain humidity by spraying water regularly.
5. Fruiting and Harvesting
After 10–12 days of casing, small white buttons start appearing.
Mushrooms mature in 5–7 days.
Harvest before caps fully open for the best quality.
Important Conditions to Maintain
Temperature:25–35°C
Humidity:80–90%
Light: Mild diffused light helps in fruiting.
Ventilation: Proper air circulation prevents contamination.
Yield and Profitability
From 1.5 kg of dry straw, you can harvest 1-1.5 kg of fresh mushrooms.
Milky mushrooms fetch good prices in the market (₹150–200/kg in many regions).
With proper care, farmers can generate significant income even with small-scale production.
Tips for Success
Always use good quality spawn from a reliable source.
Maintain strict hygiene to avoid contamination.
Avoid waterlogging in the casing layer.
Harvest timely for better shelf life and market value.
Conclusion
Milky mushroom cultivation is a sustainable and profitable venture for farmers, especially in warm regions. With minimal investment, proper training, and dedication, one can achieve excellent yields and consistent income. If you’re looking to start mushroom farming, milky mushroom is undoubtedly one of the best options to begin with.
