MUSHROOM GROWING 



containing too little straw for the best re- 

 sults. 



The fermentation process. In the fer- 

 mentation of manure the same end may be 

 obtained by a variety of methods, so it is 

 necessary to understand the principles in- 

 volved, and then one may go ahead intelli- 

 gently. Beginning with good materials the 

 essentials are adequate moisture all the time 

 and sufficient forking over, or turning, to 

 effect equal ferment action and uniformity 

 throughout — also sometimes to force a tem- 

 perature decline. 



The manure contains many soluble or- 

 ganic substances which invite a vigorous de- 

 velopment of mould fungi, if it is not fer- 

 mented. During the fermentation process 

 the common mould fungi do not, as a rule, 

 develop profusely, but bacterial and direct 

 chemical action is facilitated. The end re- 

 sult is such a stage in the decomposition of 

 the material as will favor the growth of 

 mushroom spawn rather than the mycelia of 

 moulds. 



48 



