MXPA00008096A

MXPA00008096A - Mushroom spawn-supplement

Info

Publication number: MXPA00008096A
Application number: MXPA/A/2000/008096A
Authority: MX
Inventors: David Kananen; Randy Funchion; Dena Lapolt; Jack A Mcdaniel
Original assignee: Randy Funchion; David Kananen; Dena Lapolt; Jack A Mcdaniel; Vlasic Farms Inc
Filing date: 2000-08-18
Publication date: 2002-05-09

Abstract

A mushroom spawn-supplement comprising a mixture of:(a) at least one proteinaceous ingredient in an amount to provide at least 3.5%nitrogen on a dry weight basis;(b) 2 to 30 wt.%based on dry weight of paper pellets;(c) 5 to 60 wt.%based on dry weight of at least one particulate material;(d) a buffer in an amount effective to provide a pH of about 6 to 7.8;and (e) water;and colonized with Agaricus bisporus mycelium.

Description

HONGO GERMINAL MASS SUPPLEMENT TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to the technique of mushroom cultivation and specifically belongs to an improved fungal germ mass supplement that efficiently inoculates the fungus substrate and provides an improved nutritional source for the promotion of fungal growth.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The commercial production of mushrooms (Agari c us bi sporus) involves a series of steps, including the preparation of the compost, the pasteurization of the compost, the inoculation of the compost with the fungus (germinal mass), the incubation to allow the colonization complete of the compost with the mushroom mycelium, the coating of the compost with humid peat (wrap), and the control of the environment to promote the development of the mature fungi. The process of fungal development is described in detail in several publications (Ref.:122000, Chang and Hayes, 1978, Flegg et al., 1985, Chang and Miles, 1989, Van Griensven, 1988). The germinal mass of the fungus is used to inoculate the nutritive substrate (compost). Virtually all the germinal mass now used is based on a grain substrate. The technology for the preparation of the grain based fungal germ mass was first shown by Sinden (U.S. Patent No. 1,869,517). The germinal mass is generally made from esterified grain that is inoculated with pure cultures of the desired fungal strain. The germinal mass of the fungus can be prepared by several methods. In one method, the dry grain (rye, millet, wheat, sorghum, or other grain), water, calcium carbonate and (optionally) calcium sulfate are placed in suitable containers and covered with caps that allow the passage of air and steam but do not allow the passage of microbes that could contaminate the finished product. The containers are subject to steam sterilization for suitable times and temperatures to make the mixtures commercially sterile. After cooling, the mixture of grains is inoculated with a starter culture of the desired fungal strain, and incubated under permissive conditions for approximately 14 days. The containers are stored at specific intervals to promote uniform colonization of the mycelium throughout the entire mixture. After complete colonization of the sterile, hydrated grain, with the fungus, the germinal mass can be used immediately to inoculate mushroom compost. The mixtures can also be transferred to plastic bags and refrigerated in anticipation of the formation of the germ mass at a future date. The germinal mass suitably prepared according to the aforementioned method has the following characteristics. Approximately 48 to 50% by weight of moisture, pH 6.6 to 7.2, of free flow, uniform white color resulting from the strong development of the mycelium of Agari c u s bi sporus. The germinal mass is generally added to the mushroom compost at a rate of 2 to 4% (fresh weight of the germinal mass / dry weight of the compost). Since the germinal rye mass contains approximately 1.15% nitrogen (Kjeldahl) on a fresh weight basis (approximately 2.3% on a dry weight basis), and also contains carbohydrate and lipid, the germ mass contributes some nutrients to the substrate of the fungus. The properly prepared germ mass of fungus is resistant to contamination by foreign microorganisms. The heavy development of the mycelium of the fungus on grain particles includes the development of many competing microorganisms. Even when the germ mass is added to the mushroom compost, which contains high levels of bacteria and molds, the properly prepared germ mass does not show overgrowth of foreign microorganisms (Elliott, 1985). This is partly due to the exclusive effect of the strong development of the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus and partly due to the "selectivity" of properly prepared mushroom compost. An alternative method of germinal mass production involves the bulk cooking of the grain in large kettles. The mixtures of grain and water are heated to hydrate the grain. After draining excess water, the hydrated grain is mixed with calcium carbonate and calcium sulphate, filled in bottles or heat-resistant plastic bags, sterilized, cooled, inoculated with starter cultures of the desired strain of fungus, and incubated to allow colonization of the grain with the mycelium. Another method of germinal mass production involves the placement of grain, water, calcium carbonate, and calcium sulfate in steam jacket mixers. The mixtures are cooked, sterilized, cooled, and inoculated in the mixers. Sterile inoculated grain is aseptically transferred to sterile plastic bags that are ventilated to allow air to pass while maintaining sterility. After the mycelial development, the germinal mass can be shipped to the facilities for the production of fungi with minimal additional product handling. Virtually all the germinal mass used to inoculate the mushroom compost is made using rye, millet, wheat, sorghum or other grain substrate. Fritsche (1978) describes a formula reported by Lemke (1971) for germinal mass on a perlite substrate. The formula is as follows: pearlite (1450 g), wheat bran (1650 g), CaS04 »2 H20 (200 g), CaCO3 (50 g), water (6650 ml). The pH after sterilization is 6.2 to 6.4. It is estimated that this formula contains 1.10 to 1.34% nitrogen in a dry weight basis (assuming a typical nitrogen content of wheat bran from 2.24 to 2.72%). Stoller (U.S. Patent No. 3,828,470) teaches that mushroom mycelium will not grow on food products such as cottonseed meal, soybean meal, etc., when used alone as an autoclaved substrate. Stoller also teaches the germ mass in which the cereal substrate has been diluted with an inorganic material that contains calcium carbonate or an organic flocculating agent. The nitrogen contents are generally low. For example, Stoller example 16 is estimated to contain approximately 0.22% nitrogen. It is estimated that Stoller example 18 contains approximately 0.7% nitrogen. Stoller also teaches that a fine, granular, or dusty germ mass is preferable to full-grain, large particles of the germinal grain mass. This is generally due to the number of "inoculum points" per unit weight of the germinal mass. Romaine (U.S. Patent No. 4,803,800) teaches the production of envelope germ or fungal cover by encapsulating the nutrients in a hydrogel polymer. The envelope germ mass is used to inoculate the fungus wrap layer instead of the compost. The use of germinal casing mass accelerates fructification. The nitrogen contents in the Romaine envelope germ mass are generally low. For example, Romaine teaches total nutrient levels of 2 to 6% (weight / volume of the formula). Assuming the use of 100% protein as the source of nutrients, total nitrogen could be about 0.96%. Some of the Romaine formulas contain perlite, vermiculite, soy granules, or similar materials at approximately 2 to 6% (w / v) of the formula as texturizing agents. Dahlberg and LaPolt (U.S. Patent No. 5,503,647) teach the development of a fungal wrap germ mass prepared from nutritionally inert particles. (calcined earth, vermiculite, perlite, etc.) amended with nutrients. The germ shell mass is formulated with low nitrogen content (generally less than 1%) to allow the inoculation of the fungal envelope layer with the mycelium of Agari c us bi sporus without promoting the development of pests and pathogens. Dahlberg and LaPolt also teach that high levels of protein ingredients such as soybean fines, etc., are inhibitory to the development of Agari cus bi sporus. In general, nitrogen levels above about 2% in a shell germ mass formula result in the reduced development of the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus. This formulation of germ-shell mass is also proposed as a substrate for the inoculation of germinal mass during its preparation.

Mushroom Supplements: Many mushroom growers add nutritious supplements to the mushroom compost at the time of the production of the germinal mass or wrapper. Due to the danger of disease dispersal, especially in tray-type fungus farms, most fungal breeders add supplements as the germ mass is formed. The addition of such supplements usually results in an increase in the performance of the fungus. Nutritional supplements generally consist of protein materials such as crushed soy particles, soy flour, corn gluten, feather meal, and similar materials. For example, in Hughes et al. (U.S. Patent No. 3,560,190), a dry formulation based on a combination of cottonseed meal and cottonseed oil is described as a suitable supplement. Supplementation with nutrients, however, is susceptible to some undesirable effects. One problem that has been encountered is the excessive warming of the bed, apparently caused by the easy availability of the nutritive source to the highly active microbial fungal culture. Elevations of temperature above 35 ° C (95 ° F), enough to knock down significantly, if not completely destroy mushroom mycelia, have been observed. Another problem is found when the supplement is added to the compost at the time of the production of the germinal mass. In many cases, other microorganisms, mainly molds, pre-existing in the compost, introduced with the supplement, or introduced via airborne contamination, compete with the mycelium of the fungus for added nutrients. This reduces the availability of the supplement for its intended purpose, and often prevents the development of the mycelium of the fungus. Recognizing these problems, Carrol et al.

(U.S. Patent No. 3,942,969) provides a suitable supplement for the addition to the compost at the time of the production of the germinal mass, in which the release of the nutrient is delayed. The supplement comprises a denatured protein source, including protein derived from cottonseed, soybean, and peanut. As described, the denaturation can be carried out by heat treatment or by treatment with alkalis, acids, or formaldehyde. Unfortunately, the potential gains in mushroom yields are advantageously displaced by the economic penalty associated with the denaturing treatment. The potential dangers to health and the environment from denaturing treatments such as formaldehyde, is also a disadvantage.

Wu (U.S. Patent No. 4,534,781) teaches an improved nutrient supplement comprising a particulate nutrient, such as crushed soy particles, coated with a hydrophobic material that is not readily assimilated by competing microorganisms in the compost. Further improvement in this technology was shown by Wu and Bretzloff (U.S. Patent No. 4,617, 047) in which the nutrient containing protein is coated with a hydrophobic material and an inhibitory composition of the molds. Again, the potential gains in mushroom yield are disadvantaged by the cost associated with antimicrobial treatments. The cost and potential health and environmental hazards of mold inhibitor treatments are also a disadvantage. Katz et al. (European Patent Application 0 0290 236) teaches another additional nutrient supplement for the cultivation of fungi, prepared by coating protein-rich particles with a hydrophilic carbohydrate. This coating also retards the release of nitrogen into the medium. Pratt et al. (U.S. Patent No. 4,764,199) teaches a mushroom development supplement prepared from corn gluten meal, acid, treated with aqueous formaldehyde while maintaining the flour in a free-flowing condition. Romaine and Marlowe (U.S. Patent Nos. 5,291,685 and 5,427,592) teach another nutritional supplement for the cultivation of fungi in which intact seeds, such as a rape seed, or other small oily seed are treated with heat, such as at 90.5 ° C (195 ° F) for 24 hours. The heat treatment prevents germination and provides a mechanism of delayed release for the nutrients of the seeds. The supplement of Romaine and Marlowe is used at clearly high proportions of between 7 and 14% of the dry weight of the compost. All prior art for mushroom supplements involves the treatment of nutrients with heat or chemicals to reduce the availability of nutrients to competitive microorganisms in the compost. In all cases, the treatments represent a significant portion of the cost of the supplement. In the case of treatments with chemical products of the supplements, ingredients such as formaldehyde and various pesticides represent potential hazards to health and the environment, and the practicability of using such agents may be reduced due to regulatory problems. The development of mushroom supplements without using such chemicals is highly desirable. Brini and Sartor (European Patent Application EP 0 700 884 A1) teach a mixture of dispersing agent that retains water (eg, peat), a buffer, a protein-containing component (eg, soybean meal), a promoter component of the development (for example corn gluten and / or corn starch), and water. The mixture is sterilized, inoculated with the fungus, and used to germinate the mushroom compost. The formulation inoculates the fungal beds and adds protein, while eliminating residual antimicrobial substances and suppresses the development of antagonist molds. The moisture contents of the mixtures are typically from 54 to 60%. The protein contents of the mixtures are from 4 to 20% by weight of protein (0.64 to 3.2% by weight of nitrogen). The mixtures typically contain 7.4 to 15.2% by weight (1.18 to 2.43% by weight of nitrogen).

The use of the mixtures as a fungal germ mass is evaluated to allow the faster development of the fungus and prevent the development of molds. However, routine experimentation has shown that the mixtures shown by Brini and Sartor tend to form clusters, resulting in incomplete sterilization and areas within the mixtures that are not completely colonized by the mycelium of Agari c us bi sporus. The failure to achieve sterilization results in an economic loss, while a poorly colonized mixture may allow the development of competing molds and bacteria in the compost, causing high compost temperatures and reducing the yield of the fungus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a fungal germ mass supplement to inoculate fungal compost and provide at least equivalent yield to existing mushroom germ mass formulas in fungus yield and time to achieve complete colonization of the substrate.

A further objective of the present invention is to provide a fungal germ mass, formulated with small particles in order to maximize the number of inoculum sites in the fungus substrate, and reduce the time for complete colonization of the substrate. A further objective of this invention is to provide a formulated mushroom germ mass with a high nutrient content to reduce or eliminate the need to separately add a nutritional supplement of fungi. A further objective of this invention is to provide supplemental nutrients to the fungal substrate without a resulting harmful increase in the temperature of the compost. Yet another objective of this invention is to provide supplemental nutrients to the fungal substrate without the need to treat the nutrients with pesticides, denaturing, or other chemical or physical treatments to eliminate the development of competing microorganisms. Yet another objective of this invention is to provide a formulated mushroom germ mass which reduces the risks of failure in sterilization and incomplete colonization of the mixtures by improving the aeration of the mixtures and reducing the formation of clusters. These and other objects are met by the present invention, which comprises an improved mushroom germ mass supplement, which is formulated with mixtures of: (a) protein ingredients such as corn gluten, feather meal, crushed soybeans, soybean meal, cottonseed meal, or other ingredient to provide a high nutrient content; (b) paper pellets to provide multiple points of inoculum and water retention capacity; (c) particulate materials such as calcined earth, see iculite, perlite or a similar material to provide multiple inoculum points, water holding capacity, aeration of the mixtures, density, and a free-flowing character to the mixtures; (d) calcium carbonate (CaCO3) to neutralize the pH, and (e) water. The germ mass supplement optionally contains (f) gypsum (CaS04 * 2 H20) to reduce the formation of clumps or lumps. The germ mass supplement may optionally contain a grain fraction (e.g., rye, millet, wheat) as used in the prior art. Oleaginous ingredients such as various vegetable oils can be added to increase the total nutrient content of the germ-mass supplement. The protein and oilseed components of the germinal mass supplement can be combined by using ingredients such as crushed, whole soybeans which contain protein and oil. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to the invention contains (on a dry weight basis): about 5 to 80% by weight of the protein ingredient, about 2 to 20% by weight of paper pellets, about 5 to 60% by weight of particulate material, approximately 1 a 12% by weight of calcium carbonate, and optionally about 1 to 10% by weight of calcium sulfate (cast) . Water is added to between 40 and 54%. If used, the grain is added to approximately 1 to 50% by weight (base in dry weight). The mixtures are sterilized, inoculated, and incubated in any suitable manner within the skill in the art. The mushroom germ mass supplement is generally used to inoculate mushroom compost at proportions between approximately 1 and 8% by weight (supplement in fresh weight / compost in dry weight). When prepared and used as described herein, the fungal germ mass supplement reduces the time to achieve complete colonization of the mushroom compost, and provides unexpected increases in fungus yield and production efficiency. The mushroom germ mass supplement used at 4 to 5% by weight supports a fungal yield at least equivalent to the use of 3% by weight of rye germinal mass and 4% by weight of traditional mushroom supplement. The use of additional fungus supplements in addition to the germinal mass supplement can also improve the performance of the fungus. The addition of small amounts (eg, 2%) of traditional supplements in general does not contribute significantly to the warming of the compost. The germinal mass supplement of the present invention provides a fully functional, germ-filled mushroom and mushroom supplement in a simple composition. Because the germ mass supplement is described as highly colonized with the germinal mass of Agari c us bi sporus, most foreign microorganisms can not grow well on the material. Therefore, the invention also provides a fungus supplement that does not contain pesticides, denaturants, or other chemical or physical treatments to control the development or competing microorganisms and avoids the harmful increases in the temperature of the compost. The invention unexpectedly reduces the frequency and disease severity of "green mold" caused by virulent strains of Tri ch oderma harzianum. The germ-mass supplement of the present invention as described, differs from the germinal mass of perlite as shown by Lemke (1971) and Fritsche (1978), since the nutritional content of the germinal mass supplement, especially the nitrogen content protein, it is maximized. The typical nitrogen contents of the germ-cell supplement are approximately four to five times greater than that of the perlite germ mass. During the course of the investigations leading to the development of the germinal mass supplement, many formulations were developed that represent functional "germ-free masses". The generally low nutrient content of non-grain germ masses requires that traditional mushroom supplements be added to the compost to achieve maximum yields of the fungus. The germ mass supplement of the present invention as described differs from the mixtures shown by Brini and Sartor in that the nitrogen contents are substantially higher, the moisture contents are substantially lower, and the invention is less subject to the fails by sterilization and agglomeration of the finished product. The last difference is due to the presence of particulate ingredients that improve steam penetration during sterilization. The particulate materials also provide better aeration of the mixtures during the development of the mycelium, reduction of the "dead spots" due to the agglomeration or excessive moisture of the parts of the mixtures. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not restrictive of the present invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 compares the particle size distribution for the germinal rye mass and the germinal mass supplement (formula 83). Figure 2 shows the growth rate of the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus in the compost inoculated with germinal rye mass or a germinal mass supplement. Figure 3 shows the effects on the temperature of the compost, of run of germinal mass of a germinal mass of standard rye plus supplement S44 and a supplement of germinal mass (Formula 83). Figure 4 shows the effects on the temperature of the compost, of run of germinal mass of a germinal mass of standard rye plus supplement S44 and a supplement of germinal mass (formula 80). Figure 5 shows the effects on the temperature of the compost, of run of germinal mass of a germinal mass of standard rye plus supplement S44 and a supplement of germinal mass (formulas 68 and 78).

Figure 6 shows the effects on the temperature of compost, of run of germinal mass of a germinal mass of standard rye plus supplement S41 and variant proportions of germ-mass supplement of formula 80. Figure 7 shows the effects on the temperature of compost, run of germinal mass of a germinal mass of standard rye plus 4% of supplement S41, formula 68 of germinal mass supplement, formula 80 of supplement of germinal mass, and formula 80 of supplement of germinal mass plus 2 % of supplement S41.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION As described, the present invention comprises a formulated mushroom germ mass with sufficiently high nutrient content so that the addition of supplemental nutrient formulations (eg mushroom supplement) is unnecessary. Mixtures of protein ingredients (corn gluten, soybean meal, feather meal, wheat bran, etc.), and / or oleaginous ingredients (crushed soybeans, fine soy granules, soybean oil, sunflower oil, crushed sunflower seeds, corn oil, etc.), paper pellets, particulate materials to improve the water retention capacity and aerate the mixture (calcined earth, vermiculite, perlite, etc.), CaCO3, CaS0 »2 H2O (optional), and water they are prepared, sterilized by steam, inoculated with Agari cus bi sporus starter cultures, and incubated under permissive conditions. After incubation to allow colonization of the germinal mass supplement by the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus, the germinal mass supplement is used to inoculate fungal compost in a manner equivalent to the prior art for the fungal germinal mass and the mushroom supplement. Some experimental data suggest that the addition of small amounts of traditional mushroom supplements can further improve fungus yields. Additional mushroom supplements can be added in any appropriate amount, typically 1 to 6% by weight, preferably about 2% by weight, of additional mushroom supplements. The germ mass supplement formulas can have a nitrogen content as low as 1% (dry weight) of nitrogen. A typical and preferred germ-dough supplement formula of the present invention (see Example 1) contains at least about 3.5%, more preferably about 6.0% to 6.5% (dry weight) of nitrogen (Kjeldahl), although formulas can be prepared with higher or lower nitrogen content. This preferred nitrogen content is substantially higher than about 2.3% (dry weight) of nitrogen present in the rye germ mass and substantially higher than 0.64 to 3.2% nitrogen typically present in the Brini and Sartor formulations. Currently available mushroom supplements typically contain 5.6 to 9.6% (dry weight) of nitrogen. The germ-mass supplement, as described, unexpectedly supports mushroom yields equivalent to or higher than those obtained with higher levels of germ-seed mass and supplement. For example, the germinal dough supplement formulas described in the examples give the same yield when used at 4 to 5% as a 3% rye germ mass plus 4% S41 or S44 supplements. The germ-mass supplement formula of Example 1 distributes approximately the same total nitrogen to the compost as the standard rye grain plus the supplement combination. The germ mass supplement of Example 2 distributes less than half the nitrogen of the standard rye grain plus the supplement combination. The germinal mass supplement formulas in Example 3 (formulas 68 and 78) distribute approximately half of the nitrogen as the standard rye germ mass plus the supplement combination. While the phenomenon is not completely understood, and speculation should not limit the scope of the claims, it is believed that the rapid colonization of the compost resulting from the use of the germinal mass supplement allows the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus to benefit more of the nutrients than the slower colonization of the germinal grain mass and the supplement. That is, rapid colonization allows the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus to absorb nutrients. With a standard grain germ mass and the combination of the supplement, the competing microorganisms in the compost use the nutrients to the detriment of Agari cus bi sporus. Inoculum points: The germinal mass supplement as described contains significantly more particles per unit weight than the germinal grain mass. The rye germ mass typically contains approximately 1,500 to 2,000 grains per 100 g (at a moisture content of 50%). The germinal rye mass has 79% of the particles between 3 and 4 mm in average size and 29% of the particles larger than 4 mm (Figure 1). The germinal mass of millet typically contains about 10,000 particles per 100 g (at 46 to 48% moisture). The Brini and Sartor formulation contains approximately 9,000 particles per 100 g (at moisture contents greater than 54%). The present invention preferably contains at least ,000 particles per 100 g, more preferably at least 25,000, even more preferably at least about 40,000. There is no upper limit contemplated. It is believed that amounts of up to 100,000 or more can provide a functional germ-mass supplement. The germ-mass supplement (formula of Example 1) is estimated to contain more than 42,000 particles per 100 g (at 48% moisture content). It is difficult to estimate accurately the total number of particles due to their small size and large number. Approximately 30% of the particles are smaller than 2.0 mm, and approximately 12% are smaller than 1.00 mm. The large increase in the number of inoculum points results from the use of ingredients with low apparent densities and fine textures. The small particles are completely colonized with the mycelium of Agari c us bi sporus. When they are mixed with the compost, they efficiently inoculate the substrate of the fungus. Due to the greater number, the average distance between the particles of germinal mass supplement is smaller than with the germinal mass of rye. Since Agari c us bi sporus has a fixed linear growth rate, the distance at which the mycelium must develop to reach confluence is reduced. As a result, the time to achieve confluent development through compost is also reduced. The termination of the run of the germinal mass is generally defined as the achievement of confluent growth, thick in the compost. The use of the germinal mass supplement therefore reduces the total run time of the germinal mass. Figure 1 demonstrates the particle size distribution of the germinal mass supplement of the present invention and the germinal mass of rye.

The termination of the run of the germinal mass is subjectively determined. In various tests of germ-mass supplement at a research scale and in commercial mushroom farms, the run of the germinal mass was perceived as complete within 10 days with the germ-mass supplement of the present invention. In contrast, a germinal grain supplement and supplement combination in general requires 13 to 15 days to achieve a similar level of growth. Therefore, the use of germinal mass supplement can reduce the running time of the germinal mass by approximately 3 to 5 days. In an attempt to objectively measure run-time of the germinal mass, batches of compost were inoculated with varying levels (3 to 7%) of a standard rye grain germ mass with or without supplementation with the fungus supplement S41 or variant levels of the formula 83 of the germ-mass supplement (see example 1) with or without the fungus supplement S41. At daily intervals, the color of the compost surface was measured using a Minolta color meter. The color was expressed on a "delta E" scale where a smaller number represents a whiter color. The uninoculated compost typically has a delta E value of approximately 75 arbitrary units. A germinal mass production rate of 3%, standard with the germinal mass of rye, results in a delta E of 57 arbitrary units after 13 days of the run of the germinal mass. Therefore, a delta E of 57 was taken as a color value representing a run of germinal mass completed. The time required for other experimental treatments to reach a delta E of 57 was calculated from the daily color determinations. The results of this test are summarized in Figure 2. Whereas the use of the 3% germinal rye mass results in a 13-day germ-line run, the increase in the growth rate of the germinal mass to the 7% germinal rye mass provides a complete germinal mass run in approximately 12 days. The use of formula 83 of 3% germ-mass supplement results in a complete germinal mass run in about 10 days. The increase in the speed of formation of germinal mass to the supplement of germinal mass of formula 83 to 7%, provides a complete germinal mass run in about 8 days. A linear regression analysis shows that with the germinal rye mass, each additional percentage point in the speed of germinal mass formation results in a decrease of 0.45 days in the running time of the germinal mass (correlation coefficient R2 = 0.919 ). The same analysis shows that for each additional percentage point of germinal mass formation with the germinal mass supplement of formula 83, the run time of the germinal mass is shortened by 0.67 days (correlation coefficient R2 = 0.856).

Clearly, the germinal mass supplement results in a faster germ mass run than the use of the germinal rye mass, which has larger particles and fewer inoculum points. There is no clear effect of addition of supplementary nutrients on the running time of the germinal mass, although some data show an increase in the yield of the fungus with subsequent supplementation. A shortened germinal mass run is advantageous for many fungal breeders, particularly those employing the bed (or cover) and mushroom bag methods in development. A faster germ mass run reduces the time between the start of a mushroom crop and the appearance of the first fungi. The reduction of this non-productive period improves the efficiency of a mushroom farm. By shortening the running time of the germinal mass, more crops per year can be developed in a given space, resulting in an increase in the total yield of the fungus for an installation. A shorter total harvest period also reduces the time available for pests and pathogens to become established. Short harvest cycles are associated with a reduction in diseases and pests in fungal farms. The effect of temperature / germinal mass supplement resists microbial growth: In the germinal mass supplement, all particles are strongly colonized with the mycelium of Agari c u s bi sporus. This strong mycelial growth is believed to reduce or effectively prevent the development of competing microorganisms on the particles. The reduction or prevention of development by competitors minimizes the increases in the temperature of the compost, frequently associated with the use of mushroom supplements. Agari cus bi sporus has an optimum temperature for development of approximately 25 to 26 ° C. The development is progressively reduced approximately above 28 ° C, and virtually absent above about 35 ° C. Agari cus bi sporus is physiologically incapable of provoking dangerously high temperatures in the compost, since its speed of growth and associated speed of metabolism are reduced above its optimum temperature. In contrast, many of the competing microorganisms present in mushroom compost are capable of developing elevated temperatures. Of course, the composting process selects thermotolerant and thermophilic microorganisms (Fermor et al., 1985). If provided with available nutrients, the metabolic heat from these microorganisms could increase the temperature of the compost to levels that could be dangerous for Agari cus bi sporus. To demonstrate the effect of the strong mycelial growth of Agari cus bi sporus on the competing microorganisms, the following experiment is conducted. Formula 83 of germ-mass supplement was prepared and sterilized as usual. A duplicate was inoculated with Agari c us bi sporus and allowed to develop for 14 days. A second duplicate was desinoculated and kept under sterile conditions for 14 days. A second duplicate was maintained without inoculation and kept under sterile conditions for 14 days. A rye germinal dough formula was prepared as usual, with a duplicate inoculated, and another left uninnoculated. In addition, crushed soybeans with a supplement coating - for example S41 - and without a coating (untreated soybeans) were obtained. The crushed soybeans, treated with S41 and untreated were moistened with sterile deionized water. Sterility was relaxed on day 0 of this test, and all materials were placed in non-sterile petri dishes and maintained at 25 ° C, at approximately 80% relative humidity. The materials were inspected daily for evidence of mold growth and bacterial contamination. The results of this test are summarized in Table 1.

Table 1 This test clearly shows that the colonization of a nutritive substrate by the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus exerts a protective effect against the attack by molds and bacteria. A similar antimicrobial effect is observed when the germinal mass and the supplement of the germinal mass are added to the compost. As shown in several examples, germ-cell supplements do not support the development of mold in compost. In contrast, other commercially available supplements eventually support the growth of mold and other microorganisms. The absence of the growth of the competing microorganisms results in lower peak temperatures of the compost during the run of the germinal mass. Lower compost temperatures are an advantage for mushroom breeders, since the damaging effects of heat on the development of Agari c us bi sporus are avoided. In addition, the lowest peak temperatures of the compost will result in cost savings by avoiding the need for air conditioning, to dangerously reduce the high temperatures of the compost. This is especially true during periods of warm weather. In addition to the lowest maximum temperatures of the compost, the production data from several farms of commercial mushrooms show that the increases in the temperature of the compost that occurs do so several days before with the supplement of germinal mass that with a mass germinal grain plus the supplement combination. The addition of germinal rye plus supplement typically results in a maximum temperature of the compost at about 8 to 10 days after the formation of the germinal mass. In contrast, the maximum temperature of the compost observed with the supplement of the germinal mass frequently occurs approximately 5 or 6 days after the formation of the germinal mass. This change in the time of the peak temperature of the compost is of value for fungal breeders, since it avoids high temperatures in and after wrapping or covering. The high temperatures of the compost may require several days to be put under control. The time can be even longer during the summer months or in mushroom farms with marginal cooling capacity. The addition of a layer of peat wrap to the mushroom compost provides an insulating effect. If the compost temperatures are still marginally high, the cover layer exacerbates the effect, and can result in dangerously high temperatures. By providing a maximum compost temperature several days earlier, the use of the germ mass supplement reduces the possibility that run temperatures of the germinal mass after wrapping will reduce the yield of the fungus. Absence of chemical products? Heat treatments: A clear advantage of the germ-based supplement formulas, as described, is that increases in yield and protection against competing microorganisms are achieved, without the use of physical or chemical treatments. The addition of chemicals such as formaldehyde or fungicides to mixtures of nutritional supplements can result in disadvantages of substantial costs. The chemicals used can represent safety or environmental hazards. As noted by Romaine and Marlowe (U.S. Patent No. 5,427,592), the future use of biohazardous chemicals in the mushroom industry is rare. Formaldehyde has been restricted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, and California now requires regular routine verification of workers handling a supplement for formaldehyde exposure. Heat treatments of supplements are also expensive. By including supplemental nutrients in a material that is already subject to steam heat to achieve sterilization, substantial cost advantages can be achieved over the larger quantities of two different heat treated materials (eg, germ mass and supplement). Protection against disease by Trichoderma (Green Moho): The global fungus industry has recently been plagued by a virulent "Green Moho" disease caused by Tri choderma harzi an um. They have been experienced in the United States, Canada, England, Ireland and elsewhere, substantial losses of mushroom production, with a concomitant monetary loss. Tests have shown that the presence of soluble carbohydrate due to the germinal masses of grain contributes to the development of virulent Tri ch orderma (Fletcher, 1997). Since the germ-mass supplement formula, as described, contains little starch or another easily available carbohydrate, it was found that the use of this formula reduces the incidence and severity of green mold disease. Testing at Campbell's Fresh Prince Crossing mushroom farm (West Chicago, IL) and other commercial mushroom operations have shown that green mold disease is substantially reduced when the 80 or 83 germ mass supplement formulas are used to germinate fungal beds (see Examples 2 and 7). To further investigate the ability of the germinal mass supplement to resist infection by Tri choderma harzi an um, the following experiment was conducted. Four large, sterile, threaded glass tubes were filled with either 30 g of germinal rye mass prepared according to standard procedures or 30 g of formula 83 of the germ mass supplement. In both cases, the substrates were completely colonized with Agari cus bi sporus strain M466. A single agar plug containing a sporulating culture of Tri choderma harz an um virulent TH4 biotype was placed on the surface of the substrates in each tube. The tubes were capped loosely to allow air exchange and incubated at room temperature for 6 days. Three of the four tubes containing the germinal rye mass showed vigorous development of T. harzi an um within a period of six days. Sporulation of T. harzi an um was not observed within that period. None of the four tubes containing the germinal mass supplement showed development or sporulation of virulent Tri choderma. In a parallel test, all tubes containing either germinal rye mass or formula 83 of germinal mass supplement that were not strongly colonized with Agari cus bi sporus supported the growth and sporulation of Tri choderma harzi an um. It is clear from this test that formula 83 of the fully colonized germ mass supplement resists the development of the causative agent of the disease "Green mold". Data from commercial mushroom production also support the conclusion that the use of the germ-mass supplement helps to reduce or eliminate the incidence of "Green mold" disease. Main source of nutrients: The main source of nutrients is one that provides high levels of protein nitrogen. While corn gluten is a preferred primary source of nutrients, other ingredients can be successfully substituted. Corn gluten meal is the dry residue of the corn after the elimination of the largest part of the starch and the germ, and the separation of the bran by the process used in the manufacture of wet milling of the starch or corn syrup, or by enzymatic treatment of the endosperm. Corn gluten is insoluble in water and hydrophilic, making it particularly suitable for use as a nutrient by a saprophytic fungus. Corn gluten is available from several sources, including Cargill, Inc. Corn gluten typically contains 60% protein (9.6% nitrogen) or 48% protein (7.68% nitrogen). There is no apparent qualitative difference in performance using either 60% or 48% of protein corn gluten. However, the use of 60% protein corn gluten allows the addition of higher nitrogen contents to a given formula of germinal mass supplement. Hydrolyzed feather meal is also a preferred main nutrient that can be used alone or in combination with corn gluten or another source of nutrients. Feather meal is the product resulting from the treatment under pressure of clean, not decomposed feathers of slaughtered poultry. Feather meal typically contains 80 to 85% protein, with more than 75% of the crude protein in a digestible form. The feathers have a high content of keratin, a class of fibrous proteins found in vertebrate animals. Due to the extensive cross-linking of disulfide bonds, keratins are more resistant to hydrolysis than most other proteins. This resistance to hydrolysis makes the keratin suitable for use as a nutrient by a saprophytic fungus. Keratin can absorb and retain water, but is generally insoluble in water and in organic solvents. Other major sources of nutrients that have been used successfully in the preparation of germ-cell supplement are listed in Table 2.

Table 2 Sources of nutrients for the germinal mass supplement SOURCE OF NUTRIENT% OF NITROGEN UREA 42. .00 FLOUR OF FEATHERS 15, .30 FLOUR OF BLOOD 14. .38 GLUTEN OF MAIZE 11. .00 SOLUBLES OF FISH CONDENSED 9. .68 DRY ALGAE (SCENDESMUS) 8. .14 FLOUR OF PEACH 8.00 SOYBEAN FLOUR 7.68 LADDER OF YEAST 7.65 COTTON SEED FLOUR 7.50 CÁRTAMO FLOUR 7.31 CHEESE SERUM 7.31 SUNFLOWER FLOUR 7.16 WHOLE WHOLE CRUSHED SOY BEANS 6.40 WHOLE SOY BEANS 6.40 FLOUR OF CAÑÓLA 6.06 SEED FLOUR OF LINAZA 5.98 DRY GRAIN OF DISTILLERS 4.75 CUTTON SEED WASTE 3.89 CORN EXTRACTION LIQUOR 3.65 CAÑÓLA ENTIRE 3.52 ALFALFA 2.96 SAVED OF WHEAT 2.75 WHEAT FLOUR 2.71 STRAW OF CHICKENS 2.70 AMARANTH FLOUR 2.58 BONE FLOUR 2.45 PAVES STRAW 2.20 PEPITAS AND PULP OF THE GRAPE 2.03 SUNFLOWER CASKS 1.84 RYE FLOUR 1.83 PEANUT SHRIMPS 1.79 BARLEY FLOUR 1.76 SOY SHELLS 1.62 GROUND CORN 1.53 BLUE CORN FLOUR 1.48 CORN FLOUR 1.40 YELLOW CORN FLOUR 1.26 COTTON SEED SHELLS 0.64 CORN STARCH 0.11 Nutrients with the highest nitrogen content are preferred for use in germ-cell supplements, since they allow the highest possible total nitrogen content in the finished product. Nutrient sources generally contain protein nitrogen and may contain fats, oils, carbohydrates, and micronutrients. Those skilled in the art could imagine many more possible sources of nutrients. While an abundance of experimental data shows that protein nitrogen is a preferred nutrient source for Agari c us bi sporus, other nutrients in the appropriate form and in the proper proportion could easily be defined by routine experimentation.

Paper Pellets: Paper pellets are preferably, but not limited to, a mixture of 53% shredded paper (newsprint or bond paper), 22% peat (less than 35% moisture), 17% material protein (soybean fines, etc.), 5.4% calcium carbonate, and 1.6% CaS04 »2 H20. The mixture is converted into pellets in the form of cylinders of 3.2 mm (1/8 inch) in diameter at 70-82 ° C and at a feed rate of 18.2 kg / hour. By ensuring that the ingredient of the peat has a humidity of less than 35%, the finished pellets have a moisture content of less than 12%, and therefore do not support the growth of the molds. The material typically has a nitrogen content of 1.5 to 1.6%. The training in pellets is carried out to improve the handling of the material. The material in the form of pellets has a higher density and a smaller volume than the material not converted into pellets, and is well mixed. The pellets are ground by hammers such that approximately 80% of the resulting fragments are between 4.75 mm and 0.85 mm in size. The pellets disintegrate after being hydrated to provide a greater number of small particles and "inoculum spots".

Particulate material: A particulate material such as calcined earth, perlite, vermiculite, or other ingredient, is added to the germ-mass supplement formula to provide multiple inoculum points, increase the water retention capacity, aerate the mixtures, control the density of the mixture, and help maintain a free-flowing characteristic. Typical particulate ingredients include calcined earth, vermiculite, and perlite, but other particulate materials can be successfully substituted. Calcined earth is a clay-based material that is subject to a calcination process. The clay is heated to a temperature below its melting point to cause a state of thermal decomposition. The calcination process results in a porous material that readily absorbs water. Depending on the particle size, the calcined earth can absorb at least 100% of its weight in water. The calcined earth is commercially available under the trade names "Turface", "Oil Dri", and other commercial names. The calcined earth is available in a range of particle sizes.

The dry calcined earth has a density of approximately 598 g / liter for the mesh size of 8/16. Various particle sizes affect the density of the finished germ mass supplement product, and therefore are useful in the formulation of the product. The functional characteristics of the calcined earth are similar notwithstanding the particle size. The smallest particle sizes of the calcined earth are perceived as preferable since they give more inoculum point per unit of weight. Vermiculite is a magnesium-iron-aluminum hydrated silicate, treated at high temperatures to cause expansion. The material has a low density (97 to 109 g / liter), is insoluble in water, and can absorb 200 to 500% of its own weight in water. Perlite is a volcanic glass material that is heated to cause its expansion and improve its ability to retain moisture. This is typically used as a means for plant growth. This has a low density of approximately 109 g / liter, and can absorb approximately 250% of its weight in water.

The selection of the appropriate particulate material for the germ-mass supplement formula is based on the desired density of the final product, the particle sizes, the desired number of particles (inoculum points), cost, facility of handling and use, and in other characteristics. The germinal mass application equipment used by most fungal breeders is designed and optimized to give specific weights and volumes of the germinal mass. High density materials such as calcined earth can be mixed with low density materials such as vermiculite and perlite to closely approximate the density of the germinal grain mass, in the finished germ mass supplement formula. A beneficial feature of the particulate materials used in the germ mass supplement formulas is that they generally contain spores, voids, and a rough texture. The mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus develops in these spores, and is protected from damage due to abrasion as the germ mass is stirred during preparation or immediately before being added to the compost. In the germinal mass of grain, virtually all the mycelial development is on the surface of the grains. When abraded, surface mycelia are effectively scrubbed, exposing the grain surface to potential contamination by competing microorganisms. The protection against abrasion, provided by the rough texture of the particulate material, makes the germ mass supplement resistant to the damaging effect of agitation and abrasion. The texture of the particulate materials is also of value since the pores and holes allow good aeration of the mixtures and help to avoid the formation of lumps of the mixtures. Good aeration also helps the sterilization process. Successful steam sterilization of a material requires steam to penetrate the entire length of the mass. A poorly aerated mixture restricts the penetration of steam. Dense clumps of material also restrict vapor penetration. A failure of the steam to penetrate the mixture results in cold spots that will not be successfully sterilized. Locally unsterilized areas of the mixtures reoccur the substrate, resulting in product contamination. Failures due to sterilization are frequently due to the presence of bacterial spores, such as Ba cillus spp. Contamination by Ba cil lus makes the germ mass unsuitable for use. Occasionally, a dense cluster or agglomeration of a mixture achieves commercial sterility, but is not adequately colonized by the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus due to poor oxygen penetration. Agari c us bi sporus is a strictly aerobic fungus. The poor availability of oxygen in the center of an agglomerate of unmixed material, restricts the development of the fungus in the agglomerate. When the non-colonized agglomerate is eventually mixed with fungal compost, the nutrients may become available to the microorganisms in the compost. The availability of nutrients results in the growth of competing molds and high temperature in the compost. The inclusion of a particulate material (for example, calcined earth) in the formula of germinal mass supplement, reduces the formation of clumps or clumps in the mixtures and allows the best penetration of oxygen in the clusters that form it.

Inorganic components: CaC03 is added to the formula of germinal mass supplement to control the pH through a buffering effect. Agari c us bi sporus typically releases organic acids during growth. The inclusion of calcium carbonate in the formula prevents a significant reduction in pH during development. Typical, but non-limiting amounts include about 1 to 12% calcium carbonate, more typically about 6 to 9%. The germ mass supplement formulas typically have a pH of approximately 7.2 immediately before being inoculated when they are made with tap water. The pH of the finished product is typically about pH 6.7. The exact content of calcium carbonate does not seem to be critical. The pH may be in the range between 6 and 7.8, but is preferably between 6.2 and 7.4, and more preferably about 6.4-6.9. CaS04 # 2 H20 (gypsum) can be added to the germinal mass supplement formula at approximately 7-8% of the total dry weight. Calcium sulfate seems to coat the outside of the particles to prevent agglomeration and to make any clumps or clumps that are formed, easier to break. Calcium sulfate is an optional, but desirable component of the formula. Calcium sulfate and calcium carbonate can be premixed in a 1: 1 mixture to simplify the addition of the ingredients. Water / moisture content: The optimum moisture content for germinal mass supplement is 48% moisture at the time of addition to the compost. While the germinal masses of rye and millet generally lose moisture during sterilization and development, the germ-based supplement formulas do not lose a significant amount of moisture due to evaporation. Therefore, most formulas are adjusted to 48-50% moisture before sterilization. This moisture content allows the vigorous development of the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus on the substrate, and optimal functioning in the compost. This lower moisture content also helps prevent the formation of lumps and allows for better oxygen penetration into the mixtures. This helps prevent failure by sterilization and non-colonized areas of the final product.

Preparation of the Germinal Mass Supplement: The germinal mass supplement mixes are prepared by placing the dry ingredients in a large mixing container such as a paddle mixer, cement mixer, or other suitable container in which the mixtures can be mixed. mixed to obtain the homogeneity. The ingredients are weighed, placed in the mixer, and mixed until they are perfectly mixed. Sufficient water is added as a fine spray to put the mixtures approximately 48% moisture. The additional mixture after the addition of water reduces any lump formation that may occur. The polycarbonate containers (total capacity of 4.84 liters) are filled with 2.8 kg of the hydrated mixtures. This weight of a standard germ-mass supplement formula (e.g. formula 83) fills the containers to approximately 75 to 80% capacity. Some formulas are more dense than formula 83. With the denser formulas, the containers contain less total volume. The containers are filled either manually or with an automatic container filling machine.

The containers are covered with lids that contain a breathable filter element that allows the passage of air and steam, but prevents the passage of microorganisms that could contaminate the finished product. The mixtures are sterilized by steam at the times and temperatures necessary to achieve commercial sterility. This is typically 124 ° C for 150 minutes. After sterilization, the mixtures are cooled to less than about 27 ° C. The containers are briefly opened under aseptic conditions, and an inoculum is added. The inoculum may consist of millet or rye grain colonized with a suitable strain of Agari cus bi sporus fungus, and is added to the containers at approximately 1.1 to 1.3% (volume / volume). The mixtures can also be inoculated with non-grain substrates colonized with mycelium from Agari cus bi sporu s (U.S. Patent No. 5,503,647) at a similar inoculation rate. Immediately after inoculation, the containers are briefly stirred in a commercial, modified, paint shaker to distribute the inoculum throughout the length of the mixture and break up any lumps that may have formed during sterilization. The containers are incubated at approximately 25 ° C for 4 to 6 days, at which time they are agitated again to uniformly distribute the growing mycelium. After an additional incubation of 4 to 6 days at 25 ° C, the mixtures are uniformly colonized with fungal germ mass. The germ mass supplement can be used immediately, or it can be stored in containers under refrigerated conditions (less than 3.3 to 4.4 ° C). Alternatively, the contents of the containers can be transferred to ventilated plastic bags and stored during use. The packaged fungal germ mass, including the germ-mass supplement currently described, is typically stored at less than 5.5 ° C for about 14 to 21 days to allow the "regrowth" of the mycelium and the development of a uniform white color associated with the thick mycelial colonization. While the above description describes the method of the germ-mass supplement used by the inventors, persons with ordinary experience could easily prepare germ-mass supplement formulas by other methods used for the production of germinal mass. These methods include, but are not limited to, the methods described above (Background of the Invention). Use of the Germinal Mass Supplement: The germinal mass supplement is used in a manner similar to the standard grain germ mass and the fungal supplement combination. The details of the use are inherent in the cited examples, and are familiar to those skilled in the art of mushroom development.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Formula 83 Corn Gluten (60% protein) 30.2 g Paper Pellets 14.5 g Calcined earth (8/16 mesh) 29.1 g Feather meal (15.4% nitrogen) 17.4 g CaC03 8.7 g Water 75.6 ml The nitrogen content of this formula is 6.39%. The formula 83 of germ-mass supplement was prepared essentially as described above, and stored at less than 5.5 ° C (42 ° F). In this specific example, mushroom compost was used in phase II. Compost was a standard mix formula of wheat straw / horse manure that had undergone a 22-day compost formation process I and a 9-day phase II process. The compost (fresh weight of 87.5 kg (193 pounds), equivalent to 32.6 kg (72 pounds) of dry weight at 63% humidity) was filled into each of 12 wooden trays of 122 cm x 91.4 cm (4 feet x 3 feet) (29.3 kg / m2 (6 pound / foot2) of dry weight). The trays were individually emptied on a conveyor belt. Four trays were each inoculated with 982 g of rye germinal mass, strain M466 (3% ratio) and were added with 1.309 g of supplement S44 (4% ratio; S44 is heated, crushed soy beans are treated with a hydrophobic coating and the inhibitory composition of molds). The germ mass and the supplement were perfectly mixed in the compost, and the compost was returned to the trays. Eight trays were converted into a germinal mass with 1,636 g of formula 83 of the germinal mass supplement (listed as "SS83" in Table 3, equivalent to 5% of fresh weight of the supplement of germinal mass to the compost, in dry weight). The compost in the 12 trays was hydraulically compressed, covered with polyethylene sheets to reduce moisture loss, and placed in an environmentally controlled room. The humidity in the room was maintained at 85%, and the air temperature was controlled by a Fanco model 1060 mushroom computer in an attempt to maintain a compost temperature of 24 ° C (76 ° F). Compost temperatures in the air were recorded at 240 minute intervals with a data acquisition system, at intervals of 255 minutes by the Fancom computer, and at daily intervals using mercury thermometers. The trays were inspected daily to evaluate the development of the mycelium of Agari c us bi sporu s and for the presence of molds. After 15 days of run of the germinal mass, the trays were coated with an approximately 5 cm (2 inch) wrap layer consisting of Sunshine peat, calcium carbonate, and water (at 85% moisture). The envelope or coating layer was inoculated with 0.75 units / m2 (0.07 units / ft2) of the envelope germ mass. The standard temperature regime was maintained to promote mycelial development within the envelope layer, and the trays were wetted as necessary. All trays were "flooded" by the introduction of fresh air and cooling to 19 ° C (66 ° F) on day 6. The fungi were first harvested 15 days after coverage. The yield data of the fungus (in kg / m2 (pound / foot2)) for this test are as follows: Table 3. Performance data (in kg / m2 (pound / foot2)) for experiment 892 Values with the same letter in the "total" column are not statistically significant at the 95% confidence level.

The average yield using the germ-mass supplement of formula 83 was 3.08 kg / m2 (0.63 lb / ft2) higher than using the standard rye germ mass plus the soy-based supplement formula. This increase in performance is statistically significant at the 95% confidence level. The germ-mass supplement of formula 83 also seems to provide a more desirable fungal production pattern. Fungus production is typically higher at the first change, with lower returns on subsequent changes. The high yields of the first change are sometimes associated with the poorer quality of the fungus, due to problems with the circulation of air around and between the fungi and the resulting higher localized moisture. The germ-mass supplement of formula 83 provides reduced yield of the first change, but proportionally higher yields in the second and third changes for an increase in total yield. The development of mold on the standard rye germ mass plus supplement S44, in combination, was rated medium to strong. This combination can support the development of mucorceous fungi as well as Penicillium, Aspergillus, and other common molds carried by the air. No mold development was observed at any time in this test on the trays inoculated with the germ-mass supplement of formula 83. The absence of mold growth on the trays inoculated with the germ-mass supplement of formula 83 is consistent with the temperature data for this test. The temperature data for this test are summarized in Figure 3. The combination of standard rye germ mass plus the supplement had a peak compost temperature of 33.8 ° C on day 7 of the run of the germinal mass. The formula of germinal mass-supplement in this example had a maximum temperature of compost of 32.5 ° C, also on day 7 of the run of the germinal mass. While the maximum temperatures of the compost differ, the average temperatures of the compost above the run of the germinal mass on day 14 are similar (29.3 ° C for the standard rye germ mass plus the supplement, 29.2 for the germinal mass -supplement) . The heat released by the germinal-supplement mass is spread over a longer period instead of being manifest as temperatures rise and fall during the run of the germ mass. This helps protect the mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus from the damaging effects of high compost temperatures.

Example 2 Formula 80 Corn Gluten (60% protein) 30.3 g Paper Pellets 22.4 g Vermiculite 19.4 g Calcinada Earth 18.8 g CaC03 9.1 g Water 78.8 ml The nitrogen content of this formula is 3.54%. Formula 80 of germinal mass-supplement was performed in a manner essentially as previously described. After complete colonization of the germinal-supplement mass, the material was packed in ventilated polypropylene bags (9.07 kg (20 lbs) / bags) and stored at 3 ° C (38 ° F) for approximately 21 days. The germ-supplement mass was shipped to a standard "bed-style" mushroom farm, in which stage I compost is filled in stationary bags or on shelves. Pasteurization in phase II and conditioning, run of the germinal mass, retention of the box, and harvest occur in the beds without additional movement of the compost. This facility fills 634.5 m2 (6,830 ft2) of bed space per housing, and typically fills the beds with fresh compost at 136.7 to 141.6 kg / m2 (28 to 29 pound / ft2) of bed space. This translates to approximately 34.2 to 39.1 kg / m2 (7 to 8 pound / foot2) of dry weight after pasteurization in phase II and conditioning. A block of 9 accommodations was used for this test (housing numbers 51 to 59). Seven housings used standard mushroom development conditions of 734.8 kg (1,620 pounds) of germinal rye mass (approximately 3% by weight, fresh weight germ mass by compost in dry weight) plus 725.7 kg (1,600 pounds) of supplement S44 (approximately 2.9% by weight). Two lodges were germinated with formula 80 of the germinal mass supplement. The number 53 housing was sprouted with 1,360.7 kg (3,000 pounds) of the formula (approximately 6.3% by weight), while the housing 59 was sprouted with 1,814.3 kg (4,000 pounds) (approximately 7.3% by weight) of the formula. No supplement was used in housing 53 or 59. All accommodations were substantially equal in terms of quality of compost and harvest management procedures. The rye germinal mass plus supplement S44 or the germ mass supplement of formula 80 were spread on the surface of the Phase II compost. A fungal "excavating machine" was used to mix the inocula inside the compost in the fixed beds. An excavator is not similar to a garden cultivator. All subsequent mold growth steps (wrapping, flooding, etc.) are familiar to those skilled in the art of mushroom development. The seven quarters of the standard rye germ mass plus supplement S44 gave an average fungal yield of 23.3 kg / m2 (4.77 lb / ft2). This performance is somewhat lower than usual for this installation, due to sporadic infections due to "green mold" (Tri ch oderma harzi an um biotype TH4). The two germinated lodging with formula 80 of the germinal mass supplement gave an average yield of 25 kg / m2 (5.13 pounds / foot2), for an average increase in yield of 1.75 kg / m2 (0.36 pounds / ft2). The differences in yields are not statistically significant due to the low number of duplicates and the unequal variances between the data. However, the increase of 1.75 kg / m2 (0.36 pound / foot2) in yield per housing, could translate into an extra 1,306.3 kg (2,800 pounds) of extra fungi per housing. As noted below, the preponderance of the data shows that the use of the germinal mass supplement provides yields equal to or greater than the standard germline of rye plus the supplement, in combinations. In this test, it is believed that the increased yield is partly associated with the reduced incidence of green mold. Housing 53 had a total of 3 green mold points during the entire harvest cycle. Housing 59 had a total of 6 points of green mold during the harvest. By contrast, the remaining accommodations in this test block had an average of 84 green mold infection sites (range 40 to 139). The rapid colonization of the compost plus the absence of starchy nutrients seems to reduce the severity of green mold disease. Running temperatures of the germinal mass for housings 52 (germinal mass of rye plus supplement) and 53 (germ mass supplement of formula 80) are shown in Figure 4. Although this test was conducted in July 1997, the lodging 53, which contained 1,361 kg (3,000 pounds) of the formula 80 of germ-mass supplement, did not show excessive temperatures of the run of the germinal mass. The average temperature of the compost during the run of the germinal mass was 25 ° C (76.8 ° F) with a maximum temperature of 28 ° C (82 ° F). Even with a mechanical problem on day 9 that caused an increase in the temperature of the run of the germinal mass, the harvest was easy to control. The use of the standard rye germ mass / supplement combination 44 resulted in an average compost temperature of 26 ° C (78.3 ° F) and a maximum temperature of 29.6 ° C (85.3 ° F). Despite the high proportion of germination with the formula of germinal mass supplement, the temperatures of the compost were lower.

Example 3 Formula 68 Rye Grain 27.8 g Corn Gluten (60% protein) 27.8 g Paper Pellets 27.8 g Vermiculite 8.3 g CaC03 8.3 g Water 75 ml Formula 78 Rye Grain 23.1 g Corn Gluten (60% protein) 17.0 g Paper Pellets 23.1 g Wheat Bran 23.1 g Vermiculite 6.9 g CaC03 6.9 g Water 73.7 ml The nitrogen content of formula 68 is 4.16%, while the nitrogen content of formula 78 is 3.53%. The germinal mass supplements of formulas 68 and 78 were prepared essentially as previously described. This test was conducted in the same facilities as described for Example 1. Four trays were inoculated with 3% rye germinal mass, strain M466, and were remediated with 4% supplement S44 (S44 is heated, soy beans crushed are treated with a hydrophobic coating and the inhibitory composition of molds). Four trays were germinated with 4% of the germinal mass supplement of formula 68. Four trays were inoculated with 4% of the germinal mass supplement of formula 78. Four trays were inoculated with 4% of the germ-mass supplement of formula 78 and remediated with 3% supplement S44. The standard procedures for the development of fungi were used throughout this test. The fungi were first harvested 15 days after wrapping or coverage. Mycelial growth was rated as good for formula 68, formula 78 and formula 78 plus S44 after 6 days. After 15 days of the run of the germinal mass, the development of the germinal mass was qualified as excellent for the same 3 treatments. The development of trays of rye germinal mass / S44 was rated as clear to good after 15 days.

The very slight development of a mucoroceus fungus was observed in the trays with the rye germinal mass / supplement S44 and the germinal mass supplement of formula 68 after 4 days. No mold development was observed on formula 78 and combinations of formula 78 / germinal mass S44 at any time. A tray of each of treatments 1, 2 and 4 were infected with Tri choderma, and were discarded. The yield data for this test are summarized in Table 4.

Table 4. Mushroom yield data (in kg / m2 (pound / foot)) Columns with the same letter are not significantly different from the 95% confidence level. Although not statistically significant, the combination of the germinal mass of the 68-supplement formula produced 3.56 kg / m2 (0.73 pound / ft2) more than the standard germ mass combination of rye plus the standard supplement. Neither statistically significant, the germline of the 78-supplement formula also produced 3.56 kg / m2 (0.73 lb / ft2) more than the combination of standard rye germ mass plus standard supplement. Interestingly, the formula 78 of germinal mass-supplement gave a reduced yield when it was remedied with 4% supplement S44. The use of the 4% supplementation ratio can add too much nutrient to the compost and result in an inhibition of the development of Agari cus bi sporus or increase in the development of competing microorganisms that may not be detected visually. The temperature data of this test are summarized in Figure 5. Run temperatures of the germinal mass are consistently higher for the combination of rye germ mass plus supplement S44. Figure 5 shows the temperatures of the germinal mass run.

Example 4 The germ-mass supplement of formula 80 (as described in Example 2) was , prepared as described for Example 1.

Approximately 1,361 kg (3,000 pounds) of this germ-mass supplement was shipped to a "Dutch-style" mushroom farm in which the formation of Phase II compost is carried out in bulk in pasteurization tunnels. The germinal mass is mixed with compost as it is transported to the tunnels of the run of bulk germ. The supplement is typically added to the compost as it is being transported to the fixed beds at the stage of wrapping or process coverage. Three successive rooms comprised this test. Room 6 was germinated with 816 kg (1, 800 pounds) of germinal rye mass and supplemented (in the wrapping) with 816.5 kg (1,800 pounds) of supplement S44. Room 19 was germinated with 1,324.5 kg (2,920 pounds) of germ-mass supplement of formula 80. Room 8 was germinated with 762 kg (1,680 pounds) of germinated rye mass and supplemented (in cover or wrapping) with 635 kg (1,400 pounds) of SF48 supplement. The SF48 supplement consists of fine granules of soybeans with full fat, treated with an antimicrobial coating. Its operation is equivalent to S41 and S44. Note that although these rooms were seeded sequentially, the room numbers reflect the location on the farm, not the order of germination. The performance data for this test is as follows: Table 5. Mushroom yield data (kg / m2 (pound / foot2)) The third change in room 8 was lost due to the "Bubble" disease caused by infection by Verti ci l l i um.

Although the increase in mushroom yield in room 19 is not statistically significant due to the low number of duplicates, the yield of 25.88 kg / m2 (5.30 lb / ft2) is substantially higher than in adjacent rooms. While detailed data on the temperature of the compost are not available for this test, the staff of the mushroom farm perceived the absence of "temperature fluctuation" in room 19. A peak in the temperature of the compost is typically noticed around days 8 to 10 of the germinal mass run when a nutritional supplement is added to the compost. This fluctuation was absent in room 19. This example also shows a very favorable pattern of mushroom production. The lowest production of the first change or pause is greater than that compensated by the second and third returns of the increased change.

Example 5 Germ-mass supplement of formula 80 (see Example 2) was prepared essentially as previously described, and tested in a pilot plant test as described in Example 1. Four trays of 122 x 91 cm (x 3 feet) they were seeded with 3% germinal rye mass and supplemented with 4% supplement S41 (treatment 1). Four trays were seeded with 5% germ-mass supplement of formula 80 (treatment 2). Four trays were sown with 6% germ-mass supplement of formula 80 (treatment 3). Four trays were sown with 7% germ-mass supplement of formula 80 (treatment 4). Normal fungal development procedures were followed throughout this trial. The performance data are summarized in Table 6.

Table 6. Mushroom yield data (kg / m2 (pound / foot2)) Columns with the same letter are not significantly different from the 95% confidence level. This test shows that there are no statistically significant differences in the performance of the fungus with the levels of germinal mass supplement between 5 and 7% of the dry weight of the compost. These and other tests suggest that the optimal ratio of germ-mass formation to germ-mass supplement is around 4 to 5%. The temperature data from this test are summarized in Figure 6. All the germinal mass supplement treatments showed lower composting temperatures of the germinal mass run than the standard rye germinal mass combination plus supplement. Mold development (Mucor and Peni cil l um) was observed on the germinated trays with rye germinal mass plus S41 supplement. No mold development was observed in any of the trays inoculated with germinal-supplement mass. Observations of mold development are consistent with temperature data. The run of the germinal mass was visually determined as complete by day 10 of the run of the germinal mass for the trays inoculated with germinal-supplement mass. Trays inoculated with germinal rye plus supplement required approximately 15 days to complete the run of germination mass.

Example 6 Formula 68 of germ-mass supplement (Example 3) and formula 80 (Example 2) were prepared essentially as previously described, and tested for fungal performance effects as described in Example 1. Four were inoculated trays with 3% rye germinal mass plus 4% supplement S41.

Four trays were inoculated with 5% of formula 68 of germinal mass-supplement. Four trays were inoculated with 5% of formula 80 of germinal mass-supplement. Four trays were inoculated with 2% of formula 80 of germinal-supplement mass and supplemented with 2% supplement S41. The normal mushroom development practices were followed throughout this trial. The performance data are summarized in Table 7.

Table 7. Mushroom performance data (kg / m2 (pound / foot2)) Columns with the same letter are not significantly different from the 95% confidence level.

No significant differences were observed in the performance of the fungus between the combination of standard germinal mass of rye plus supplement, germinal mass-supplement of formula 68, and germinal mass-supplement of formula 80. However, when the germinal mass-supplement of formula 80 is remediated with 2% supplement S41, the yield of the fungus is increased by 3.08 kg / m2 (0.63 pound / foot2). Clearly, the combination of 5% germ-plus supplement plus 2% supplement S41 results in improved productivity over the non-supplemented germ-mass supplement and the standard rye germ-mass plus 4% supplement S41. The temperature data for this test show that the highest temperatures of the compost of the germinal mass run were observed in the trays with the rye germinal mass and 4% supplement S41 (Figure 6). The addition of 2% of S41 to the germinal-supplement mass of formula 80 did not result in a substantial increase in the temperature of the compost of the germinal mass run compared to the trays of the formula 80 not supplemented. The development of mold (Aspergi l l us) was observed on the trays germinated with rye germinal mass and supplement S41. A few spots of Neurospora mold were observed on the trays germinated with the formula 68 of supplement-germinal mass. No other development of mold was observed on the trays inoculated with germinal-supplement mass. The run of the germinal mass for the trays inoculated with the formula 80 of germinal mass-supplement was visually determined as complete by day 12 of the run of the germinal mass. The trays inoculated with the formula 68 of germinal mass-supplement completed the run of the germinal mass in 14 days. Trays inoculated with germinal rye plus supplement required 14 days to complete the run of the germinal mass.

Example 7 Formula 83 of germinal mass-supplement colonized with Agari cu s bi sporus strain M473 was prepared as previously described and shipped to a farm that has experienced green mold disease. At the test date, each 297.29 m2 (3,200 ft2) housing had an average of 50 green mold points by the time of the first change or break. In two housings for which the data are available, housing 1 showed a green mold point, while housing 2 showed no green mold infection sites. The infection by the green mold is substantially reduced in germinated lodgings with the formula 83 of germinal mass-supplement.

Example 8 Formula 83b Grains Corn Gluten 30.2 Paper Pellets 14.5 Calcined Earth 29.1 Feather Flour 17.4 CaC03 / CaS04 (1: 1) 8.7 Water 75.6 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 6.39%% Humidity (Calculated) 48.23% Example 9 Formula 80b Grains Gluten of Corn 30.3 Pellets of Paper 22.4 Vermiculite 19.4 Calcined Earth 18.8 CaC03 / CaS04 (1: 1) 9.1 Water 78.8 % Nitrogen (calculated) 3.54% % Humidity (calculated) 48.78% Example 10 Formula 80c-2 Grains Corn Gluten (60%) 8 Paper Pellets 33.6 Vermiculite 32.8 Calcined Earth 13.6 CaC03 12 Water 80 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 1.38% % Humidity (calculated) 48.64% Example 11 Formula 80c-16 Grams Corn Gluten (60%) 63.5 Paper Pellets 13.3 Vermiculite 13.0 Calcined Earth 5.4 CaC03 4.8 Water 73.0 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 7.01% % Humidity (calculated) 48.12% Example 12 Formula 80d Grams Corn Gluten (60%) 33.3 Paper Pellets 22.4 Vermiculite 18.2 Calcined Earth 17.0 CaC03 9.1 Water 78.8 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.87% % Humidity (calculated) 48.89% Example 13 Formula 80d-4 Grams Corn Gluten (60%) 78.4 Paper Pellets 7.3 Vermiculite 5.9 Calcined Earth 5.5 CaC03 2.9 Water 72.5 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 8.57% % Humidity (calculated) 48.37% Example 14 Formula 80d-4 Grams Feather meal (80%) 69.4 Paper Pellets 10.3 Vermiculite 8.3 Calcined Earth 7.8 CaC03 4.2 Water 72.2 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 10.10% % Humidity (Calculated) 48.01% Example 15 Formula 80e-7 (P55) Grams Flaxseed Flour 51.1 Paper Pellets 15.7 Vermiculite 13.2 Calcined Earth 13.6 CaC03 6.4 Water 74.5 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.63%% Humidity (Calculated) 48.66% Example 16 Formula 83 (P57) Grains Corn Gluten 30.3 Paper Pellets 22.4 Calcined Earth 20.0 Feather Flour 18.2 CaC03 9.1 Water 78.8 % Nitrogen (calculated) 6.58%% Moisture (calculated) 48.78% Example 17 Formula 83-C5 (P57) Grams Waste Cotton Seed 30.3 Paper Pellets 22.4 Calcined Earth 20.0 Feather meal 18.2 CaC03 9.1 Water 78.8 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 4.69% % Humidity (calculated) 48.78% Example 18 Formula 83-s5 (P59) Grams Whole Soybeans 51.1 Paper Pellets 15.7 Calcined Earth 14.0 Feather meal 12.8 CaC03 6.4 Water 76.6 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 6.03% % Humidity (calculated) 48.74% Example 19 Formula 83-c3 (P59) Grams Cotton Seed Flour 46.5 Paper Pellets 17.2 Calcined Earth 15.3 Feather meal 14.0 CaC03 7.0 Water 76.7 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 6.48% % Humidity (calculated) 48.66% Example 20 Formula 83-c4 (P59) Grams Crushed Corn 54.5 Paper Pellets 13.5 Calcined Earth 12.0 Feather Flour 14.5 CaC03 5.5 Water 76.4 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.61% % Humidity (calculated) 48.74% Example 21 Formula 83-sh2 (P61) Grams Soy Bean Casings 30.3 Paper Pellets 22.4 Calcined Earth 20.0 Feather meal 18.2 CaC03 9.1 Water 78.8 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.94%% Humidity (Calculated) 48.78% Example 22 Formula P69-1 Grams Feather Flour 16.5 Corn Gluten 24.8 Calcined Earth 33.9 Paper Pellets 16.5 CaC03 8.3 Water 78.4 % Nitrogen (calculated) 5.58%% Humidity (calculated) 48.23% Example 23 Formula P69-2 Grams Feather meal 24.8 Corn Gluten 16.5 Calcined Earth 33.9 Paper Pellets 16.5 CaC03 8.3 Water 78.4 % Nitrogen (calculated) 6.09% % Humidity (calculated) 48.23% Example 24 Formula P71-3 Grams Cascades of Peanut 53.6 Paper Pellets 8.9 Calcined Earth 17.9 Feather meal 14.3 CaC03 5.4 Water 75.0 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.61% % Humidity (calculated) 48.12% Example 25 Formula P71-4 Grams Bone Flour 55.6 Paper Pellets 9.3 Calcined Earth 18.5 Feather meal 11.1 CaC03 5.6 Water 75.9 % Nitrogen (calculated) 3.53% % Humidity (calculated) 48.48% Example 26 Formula P73-w4 Grams Wheat flour 55.6 Paper Pellets 9.3 Calcined Earth 18.3 Feather meal 11.1 CaC03 5.6 Water 75.9 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.69% % Humidity (calculated) 48.48% Example 27 Formula P73-cs4 Grams Corn Starch 50.0 Paper Pellets 8.3 Calcined Earth 16.7 Feather Flour 20.0 CaC03 5.0 Water 76.7 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.50%% Humidity (calculated) 48.45% Example 28 Formula P73-bf4 Grams Barley Flour 53.6 Paper Pellets 8.9 Calcined Earth 17.9 Feather Flour 14.3 CaC03 5.4 Water 73.2 % Nitrogen (Calculated 3.59%% Moisture (Calculated) 47.59% Example 29 Formula P83-cf8 Grams Corn flour 62.5 Paper Pellets 6.3 Calcined Earth 12.5 Feather meal 15.0 CaC03 3.8 Water 75.0 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.61% % Humidity (calculated) 48.40% Example 30 Formula P75-yc4 Grams Yellow Corn Flour 43.5 Paper Pellets 10.9 Calcinada Earth 21.7 Feather Flour 17.4 CaC03 6.5 Water 78.0 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.69% % Humidity (calculated) 48.66% Example 31 Formula P75-bc4 Grams Blue Corn Flour 43.5 Paper Pellets 10.9 Calcined Earth 21.7 Feather Flour 17.4 CaC03 6.5 Water 78.0 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.79%% Humidity (Calculated) 48.66% Example 32 Formula P75-rf4 Grams Rye Flour 53.6 Paper Pellets 8.9 Calcined Earth 17.9 Feather Flour 14.3 CaC03 5.4 Water 75.0 % Nitrogen (Calculated! 3.63%% Moisture (Calculated) 48.12% Example 33 Formula P75-pm2 Grams Peanut Flour 29.4 Paper Pellets 14.7 Calcined Earth 29.4 Feather Flour 17.6 CaC03 8.8 Water 79.4 % Nitrogen (calculated) 5.72% % Humidity (calculated) 48.62% Example 34 Formula P87-rf Grams Rye flour 64.1 Paper Pellets 6.4 Calcined Earth 12.8 Feather meal 12.8 CaC03 3.8 Water 74.4 % Nitrogen (calculated) 3.58% % Humidity (calculated) 48.28% Example 35 Formula P87-wf Grams Wheat flour 63.4 Paper Pellets 7.6 Calcined Earth 15.2 Feather Flour 9.1 CaC03 4.6 Water 76.2 % Nitrogen (calculated) 3.58% % Humidity (calculated) 48.83% Example 36 Formula P87-bf Grams Barley flour 64.1 Paper Pellets 6.4 Calcined Earth 12.8 Feather meal 12.8 CaC03 3.8 Water 74.4 % Nitrogen (calculated) 3.53% % Humidity (calculated) 48.28% Example 37 Formula P87-yc Grams Yellow Corn Flour 51.7 Pellas de Papel 8.6 Calcined Earth 17.2 Feather Flour 17.2 CaC03 5.2 Water 75.9 % Nitrogen (calculated) 3.76% % Humidity (calculated) 48.29% Example 38 Formula P87-bc Grams Blue Corn Flour 58.8 Paper Pellets 7.4 Calcinada Earth 14.7 Feather Flour 14.7 CaC03 4.4 Water 76.5 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 3.57% % Humidity (calculated) 48.72% Example 39 Formula P89-83b Grams Feather Flour 20.0 Corn Gluten 30.0 Calcined Earth 20.0 Paper Pellets 20.0 CaC03 10.0 Water 77.9 % Nitrogen (Calculated! 6.80%% Moisture (Calculated) 48.40% Example 40 Formula P89-83b-3 Grams Feather meal 20 .0 Corn Gluten 30 .0 Calcined Earth 20 .0 Paper Pellets 16 .6 CaC03 10 .0 Improved Oat Fiber 3 .4 Water 71 .1 % Nitrogen (Calculated) 6. 99%% Moisture (Calculated) 48. 24% Formula S41: more than 95% of crushed soybeans with preservative coatings. The crushed soybeans are peeled, crushed, and sifted to retain a fraction of about 30 mg. "Soybean fines" are what is left after the crushed soybeans are removed.

References : Chang, S.T. and W.A. There is. 1978. The Biology and Cultivation of Edible Mushrooms. Academic Press, New York, 819 pp. Chang, S.T. and P.G. Thousands. 1989. Edible Mushrooms and Their Cultivation. CRC Press. Boca Raton, FL. 345 pp. Elliott, T.J. 1985. Spawn-making and Spawns. Chapter 8, pages 131-139, In: Flegg, P.B., D.M. Spencer, and D.A. Wood. The Biology and Technology of the Cultivated Mushroom. John Wiley and Sons, Ltd. Chichester. Fermor, T.R., P.E. Randle, and J.F. Smith 1985. Compost as a Substrate and its Preparation.

Chapter 6, pages 81-109, In: Flegg, P.B., D.M. Spencer, and D.A. Wood. The Biology and Technology of the Cultivated Mushroom. John Wiley and Sons, Ltd. Chichester. Flegg, P.B., D.M. Spencer, and D.A. Wood. 1985. The Biology and Technology of the Cultivated Mushroom. John Wiley and Sons, Ltd. Chichester. 347 pp. Fletcher, J.T. 1997. Mushroom Spawn and the Development of Tri ch oderma Compost Mold. Mushroom News 45: 6-11. Fritsche, G. 1978. "Breeding Work".

Chapter 10, pages 239-250, In: Chang, S.T. and W.A. Hayes, Eds. "The Biology and Cultivation of Edible Mushrooms". Academic Press, NY. Lemke, G. 1971. Erfahrungen mit Perlite bei der Myzelanzucht und Fruchtkorperproduktion des Kulturchampgnons Agari cus bi sporus (Lge.) Sing. Gartenbauwissenschaft 1: 19-27. Van Griensven, L.J.L.D. 1988. "The Cultivation of Mushrooms". Darlington Mushroom Laboratories, Ltd. Russington, Sussex, England. 515 pp.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations in the methods and apparatus of the present invention may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention with the proviso that they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property:

1. A supplement of fungal germ mass, characterized in that it comprises a mixture of: (a) at least one protein ingredient in an amount to provide at least 3.5% nitrogen in a dry weight basis; (b) 2 to 30% by weight based on the dry weight of the paper pellets; (c) 5 to 60% by weight, based on the dry weight of at least one particulate material; (d) a buffer in an amount effective to provide a pH of about 6 to 7.8; and (e) water; and colonized with germinal mass of Agari c us bi sporus where the paper pellets of (b), the particulate material of (c) or both are present in an effective amount to provide at least 10,000 particles per 100 g of finished product.

2. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that the protein ingredient is selected from the group consisting of corn gluten, feather meal, crushed soybeans, soybean meal, cottonseed meal, and mixtures thereof.

3. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 2, characterized in that the protein ingredient is corn gluten.

4. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises at least one oil ingredient.

5. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 4, characterized in that the oleaginous ingredient is selected from the group consisting of crushed soybeans, fine granules of soybeans, sunflower seeds, crushed sunflower seeds, and soybean oil. corn.

6. The fungal germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that the particulate materials are selected from the group consisting of calcined earth, vermiculite, perlite, and mixtures thereof.

7. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, further characterized by comprising (f) gypsum in an amount effective to reduce the formation of lumps.

8. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises, on a dry weight base: 5 to 80% by weight of protein ingredient, 2 a 30% by weight of the paper pellets, 5 to 60% by weight of the particulate material, 1 to 12% by weight of CaCO3, and between 40 and 54% of water.

9. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 8, characterized in that it also comprises from 1 to 10% by weight of calcium sulfate.

10. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises from 6 to 9% by weight of CaCO3.

11. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that 80% of the paper pellets have a size between about 0.85 and 4.75 mm.

12. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 5, characterized in that it also comprises from 1 to 50% by weight of grain.

13. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that the moisture content is between about 46 and 52%.

14. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 13, characterized in that the moisture content is between approximately 48 and 50%.

15. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that the protein ingredients are present in an amount to provide between about 6 and 6.5% nitrogen in a dry weight basis.

16. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that the buffer is calcium carbonate.

17. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that the pH is between 6.2 and 7.4.

18. A mushroom compost, characterized in that it comprises between 1 and 8% of fungal germ mass supplement in fresh weight, according to claim 1, based on the dry weight of the compost.

19. The mushroom compost, according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises between 4 and 5% fresh weight of mushroom germ mass supplement.

20. The mushroom compost, according to claim 18, characterized in that it also comprises from 1 to 6% by weight of additional mushroom supplements.

21. The mushroom compost, according to claim 20, characterized in that it further comprises about 2% by weight of additional mushroom supplements.

22. A method for reducing or eliminating mold, characterized in that it comprises the inoculation of the compost with the germinal mass supplement according to claim 1.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that the mold is the disease of green mold.

24. A method for preparing a germ-mass supplement, characterized in that the method comprises colonizing a mixture of (a) at least one protein ingredient in an amount to provide at least 3.5% nitrogen on a dry weight basis; (b) from 2 to 30% by weight, based on the dry weight of the paper pellets; (c) from 5 to 60% by weight based on the dry weight of at least one particulate material; (d) a buffer in an amount effective to provide a pH of about 6 to 7.8, and (e) water; with Agari mycelium cus bi sporus wherein the paper pellets of (b), the particulate material of (c), or both are present in an effective amount to provide at least 10,000 particles per 100 g of finished product.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that it further comprises (f) gypsum in an amount effective to reduce the formation of lumps.

26. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that the paper pellets of (b), the particulate material of (c), or both are in an effective amount to provide at least 25,000 particles per 100 g of finished product.

27. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that the buffer is calcium carbonate.

28. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that the pH is between 6.2 and 7.4.

29. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 1, characterized in that the paper pellets of (b), the particulate material of (c), or both are present in an amount effective to provide at least 25,000 particles per 100 g. of finished product.

30. A supplement of fungal germ mass, characterized in that it comprises a mixture of: (a) at least one protein ingredient in an amount to provide at least 1% nitrogen in a dry weight basis; (b) from 2 to 30% by weight, based on the dry weight, of paper pellets; (c) from 5 to 60% by weight, based on the dry weight, of at least one particulate material; (d) a buffer in an amount effective to provide a pH of about 6 to 7.8, and (e) water; and colonized with mycelium of Agari cus bi sporus, where the paper pellets of (b), the particulate material of (c) or both are present in an effective amount to provide at least 10,000 particles per 100 g of finished product.

31. The mushroom germ mass supplement according to claim 30, further characterized in that it comprises (f) gypsum in an amount effective to reduce the formation of lumps.

32. The mushroom germ mass supplement, according to claim 30, characterized in that the buffer is calcium carbonate.

33. The mushroom germ mass supplement, according to claim 30, characterized in that the pH is between 6.2 and 7.4.