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Greencastle, PA

Are many growers still using mushroom compost? What are its advantages and disadvantages? Thanks
Tom

10/6/2006 5:11:05 PM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

The only disadvantages are the potential for salts & the very high potash.

The advantage is also the potash (if it's needed).

I would soil test the patch first. Then sample the MC for potash & salts.

10/6/2006 9:12:14 PM

Dillsburg, PA

Hey Tom, I've used mushroom compost the last couple of years. As long it is composted you should be in good shape. I use it mixed with leaf compost. Blacker than black.

10/11/2006 10:43:54 AM

Finding the source(i.e. material used) of that particular batch of mushroom compost would be the place to begin when determining the value in the patch. The mushroom growers in WI usually start with horse manure and add urea for heating it before it goes to the sheds. I know the worm farms then access it and use for their operation. Sooooo,,,if it's good for the worms,,,,,,,,

10/11/2006 11:14:56 AM

Montoursville, PA

I just grew my personal best on mushroom compost added last fall. My soil test this fall shows no salt increases worth consideration. All manure base additives will have with them some salt. They along with the worms they attract and support are the best growing elements known to man, in the solid forms.

I apply about three plus inches in liew of manure which is very difficult for me to handle, on my hillside.

10/11/2006 3:35:58 PM

Ontario

Why do you think the mushroom farmers don't reuse it, all the good stuff has been used up, waste of time and money.

drew

10/11/2006 5:09:28 PM

Picton,ON (j.vincent@xplornet.ca)

I believe the material is good for raising organaic matter and improving soil structure. In our situation, we have ample fertility, but need additional organic additives. The mushroom compost I use is stored in a field and is at least 3+ years old and completely composted. Its true much of the nutriants are used up, however these are easily balanced with comercial fertilizer, water soluables and foliar products.
I plan to add about 75 yards to my patch of 7000 ft2 this fall.

10/11/2006 9:16:22 PM

Greencastle, PA

Thanks for the insight. There's a farm not too far from here selling mushroom compost, so I was curious. Thanks again.
Tom

10/12/2006 4:24:35 PM

Mocksville, NC

Mushroom compost is (SPENT)compost for mushrooms, but the hyphea, and Mycorrizea remains. I use a brand called Wallace farms premium mushroom compost. No relation to thee Wallaces we know, i use it in part in my planting pits. once useing it yu'll notice alot of mushrooms after rain appearing in your patch that tells me the good fungi is building up it will do nothing ,but help you root system, since its a Endo kind i have been asked several time how do you get your stumps or crown so big, well theres you answer

10/14/2006 6:25:12 AM

Belgium Europe

Right Rog !!! The mushrooms are not getting anything out of it that our plants can use.They use organic matter, witch our plants can't.It must be turned into minerals before our plants can use it, and that's just what the mushrooms do.The part that we call musshrooms, and witch is harvested by the mushroomgrowers is just a little part of the total plant.The mycelium remains.

10/14/2006 3:23:24 PM