Although mushrooms grow under natural conditions in areas with limited light, under cultivated conditions, adequate light plays a key role in ensuring their healthy growth and development. What light should there be in the mushroom house?
What kind of light should there be in the mushroom house?
Mushrooms are saprophytic fungi that grow in nature in low-light areas, such as forests. Therefore, mushrooms in the mushroom farm do not require intensive lighting either. The optimum light intensity should be around 50-100 lux, which is sufficient to provide mushrooms with the necessary conditions for growth. Excessive light can lead to the growth of mold and other microorganisms that are harmful to the mushrooms.
The duration of light exposure does not have to be long either. It is sufficient for the lighting to be on for about 6–8 hours a day. Such conditions are sufficient for mushrooms to develop properly. The type of light is also important – light with a colour close to natural sunlight, i.e. with a colour temperature of 4000K -6500K, is best. Cool-colored light is preferable to warm-colored light because it better imitates the natural conditions in which the mushrooms grow. So light is one of the most important parts of mushroom farm equipment.
How do I choose lamps for my mushroom farm?
Choosing the right lamps for your mushroom farm is crucial to ensure optimal lighting conditions. The best choice is LED lamps, which are characterized by low energy consumption, long life, and adjustable light intensity. LED lamps allow the lighting conditions to be precisely adapted to the needs of the mushrooms at different stages of their growth.
The regulation of light intensity is an important element that allows the lighting conditions to be adapted to the specific requirements of the mushrooms. It is also important that the chosen lamps are moisture-resistant, as mushroom farms are characterized by high humidity. Lamps with an IP65 rating or higher are suitable for mushroom farm conditions, ensuring durability and reliability in harsh conditions.
Remember, that lighting costs can account for a significant proportion of mushroom production expenses. Because of that, choosing energy-efficient LED lamps can significantly reduce operating costs. This makes it possible to maintain a high-quality crop while minimizing energy costs.
So as you can see, appropriate light is crucial for the health and quality of cultivated mushrooms. Light supports the healthy growth of mushrooms, prevents deformations, and ensures the proper development of the mycelium.