While mushroom farming might appear demanding and strenuous at first glance, there's an intriguing allure to it. Official data from the National Farmers Information Service (NAFIS) reveals that Kenya produces 500 tonnes of mushrooms annually, falling short of the demand of 1200 tonnes. Consequently, local farmers can't meet this demand, creating a profitable business opening for those willing to invest.
Mushroom cultivation is viable across Kenya, requiring shelter, consistent water supply, and temperatures between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Step 1: Commencing the Journey Naturally, securing a piece of land is the initial step for cultivating mushrooms. A 1/8 acre land plot suffices for establishing a sizable farm that can yield up to 2 tonnes of mushrooms every two months (using the shelf-frame method).
Step 2: Constructing a Simple Structure Once you've secured a suitable plot, building a basic mud-house and wooden shelves to maximize vertical space becomes essential. Utilize local resources creatively to minimize construction expenses. (Ensure proper ventilation for adequate airflow.)
Step 3: Sourcing the Substrate The crucial starting supply is the substrate, the material that mushrooms grow on. Forest soil, wheat straw, bean straw, millet straw, or rice straw can serve as substrates. Sterilization is crucial to prevent bacterial contamination. Around 20 bales of wheat straw (Ksh.200 each) are necessary.
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