Grey oyster mushroom

Tree oyster mushroom, Oyster shelf, Straw mushroom (Eng.), Grys oestersampioen (Afr.)

A common, edible species of mushroom that is known for its oyster-shaped cap. It has a smooth, grey cap and firm, meaty flesh that makes it ideal for eating raw in salads. It can also be sauteed in butter or added to soups and stews. Naturally grows on the dead wood of broad-leaf trees(Saprophyte). Commercially cultivated on straw bales at temperatures of 13-15 degrees at high humitidy.

Planning

Difficulty

Easy

Flowering time

Summer, Autumn, Spring

Fruiting time

Summer, Autumn, Spring

Harvesting

Harvest the grey, fan-shaped cap and stems when the mushrooms are approximately 5 - 12 cm wide.

Propagation

Seed

Catch the spores as the fall from a mature fruit and spread in a straw mix. Keep in bags until white mycelium is visible. Puncture or injure the bag to allow fruit to emerge into the air to harvest.

Special features

Indoor plant

Grow in a room with high humidity and temperatures above 26 degrees Celsius.

Attractive fruits

Unusual fruit make this fungi a delicious treat.

Geography

Origin

Europe & Asia. First commercially cultivated in Germany.

Natural climate

Subtropical wit high humitidy

Environment

Light

Partial Sun, Full Shade

Soil moisture

Moist

Soil PH preference

Neutral

Frost hardiness

Tender

Uses

Medicinal

Known to lower cholesterol.

Edible

Firm texture and slight anise-like flavour. It can be eaten raw in salads or added to soups, stews and sauces.

Personality

Family

Pleurotaceae

Flower colour

Grey

Scent

Mild

Problems

Spiders can eat the mycelium and fruiting bodies. Cobwebs found near the mushrooms should be immediately destroyed. Sensitive to fly infestation, but can be controlled with good hygiene. Green coloured mould- kept at bay with good hygiene and proper sterilisation.

Peronosporaceae

Peronosporaceae

Companion plants

Oats

Avena sativa