MUSHROOM GROWING 



physiological group of the fleshy fungi. 



In general, I shall use the word '*mush- 

 room" in its broader significance, apply- 

 ing it alike to the thousands of species 

 which in form, texture, and habitat may be 

 most diverse, — varying in size from the 

 huge giant puff ball to the almost micro- 

 scopic Marasmius, and in texture exhibiting 

 such a variety of qualities as gelatinous, 

 fleshy, cartilaginous, leathery, corky, and 

 woody. 



Wherever and whenever a measure of 

 success has been attained mushroom grow- 

 ing has proved a fascinating occupation or 

 recreation, and this in spite of the fact that 

 the requisite conditions would not seem to be 

 so pleasing as those attaching to flower- 

 garden work. Doubtless the fascination re- 

 sides in the value of the product as a table 

 delicacy and somewhat also in purely psy- 

 chological considerations, as in the surprises 

 experienced, the growth contrasts afforded, 

 the profuse production, and a certain atmos- 

 phere of mystery. 



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