Vol. 12, Issue 8 (2023)

The importance of mushroom production is growing on a global scale because of its therapeutic and dietary advantages. Common mould infections, on the other hand, provide a significant obstacle to productive agriculture, resulting in crop losses and decreased yields. This research paper explores environmentally friendly and sustainable ways to fight such mould diseases. In this research, the effectiveness of many biological treatments—including wheat straw mixed with garlic and neem water extracts was assessed as an alternative to chemical fungicides. To determine their effects on spawn run, pinhead formation, and overall yield, these treatments were used at various phases of mushroom cultivation. Our research showed that wheat straw and 0.15% garlic water extract produced the most encouraging outcomes, successfully preventing mould growth and encouraging ideal mycelial colonization. In comparison to other non-chemical and chemical treatments, pinhead production was markedly accelerated in this one, and the harvested fruiting bodies showed greater average weights. By using these biological methods, prevalent mould diseases in the mushroom industry can be managed in a way that is sustainable and environmentally benign while also reducing the negative effects of artificial fungicides. By putting these practices into practice, mushroom growers can increase their operations' security, efficiency, and general quality while also satisfying the growing global demand for dietary and medicinal mushrooms.

1.To evaluate the efficacy of chemical and botanicals treatments in controlling common mould diseases in mushroom cultivation.

2.To determine the most effective and sustainable approach for managing common mould diseases in terms of productivity.and direct influence on seed yield per plant. These traits may be considered for selection and to improve the yield of mustard genotypes.