Cultivation methods of maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Artificial culture of maitake (Grifola frondosa) in Japan has a short 15-year history. Mass production of artificially cultured mushrooms was started only about 10 years ago after the elucidation of its biology. Three artificial cultivation methods have been established: (1) Bottle culture: This method is suitable for year-round culture and can be mechanized with minimum labor requirements. The size of the harvested mushroom is small because of the small bottles used (800-1000 ml). (2) Bag culture: This method is used most frequently in Japan. Sawdust is mixed with rice and wheat brans. After the moisture of the mixture is adjusted, the mixture is packed in a polypropylene bag and is molded into a square-shaped culture bed. (3) Outdoor bed culture: This method was first attempted in Japan under natural climatic conditions. This method requires about 6 months from inoculation to fruiting body formation.