Emma Wilson
Oyster mushrooms are a diverse group of fungi that can be cultivated in a variety of temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F). The specific temperature requirements depend on the type of oyster mushroom being grown. For example, the Pink Oyster mushroom, one of the fastest-growing varieties, thrives in warmer temperatures of 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F), while the Cold Blue Oyster variety, native to South Carolina, fruits at temperatures as low as 35°F to 50°F and requires a cold shock to initiate fruiting. The Aspen Oyster mushroom, on the other hand, has a colonization range of 70°F to 75°F and fruits at 60°F to 74°F. Maintaining proper humidity and temperature is crucial for successful cultivation, and growers must also consider factors such as ventilation, fresh air supply, and seasonal temperature fluctuations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Optimum fruiting temperature | 50-80°F (can produce at up to 95°F) |
| Minimum temperature for growth | 5-7°C (41-44.6°F) |
| Ideal humidity | 85-90% |
| Minimum humidity | 82% |
| Maximum humidity | 95-97% |
| Temperature of water in the humidification system | 55-63°F (13-17°C) |
| Temperature during incubation | 20-24°C |
| Temperature during fruiting | 15-25°C |
| Aspen oyster mushroom colonisation temperature | 70-75°F |
| Aspen oyster mushroom fruiting temperature | 60-74°F |
| Brown oyster mushroom fruiting temperature | 50-75°F |
| Cold blue oyster mushroom fruiting temperature | 35-50°F |
| Pink oyster mushroom temperature | 18-30°C (64-86°F) |
| Yellow oyster mushroom temperature | 18-30°C (64-86°F) |
| King oyster mushroom temperature | 12-18°C (45-65°F) |
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What You'll Learn
Optimum fruiting temperature range: 50-80°F
Oyster mushrooms are versatile fungi that can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 26.7°C). However, the optimal fruiting temperature range is 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 21°C). At these temperatures, oyster mushrooms thrive and produce abundant yields.
While the optimal fruiting temperature range is quite broad, some species of oyster mushrooms have more specific preferences. For example, the Aspen oyster mushroom, a strain that grows on aspen, cottonwood, and birch trees, has a narrower fruiting temperature range of 60°F to 74°F (15.6°C to 23.3°C). This strain is particularly sensitive to temperature, with the colour of its cap varying from dark brown to light brown depending on the temperature.
The Brown Oyster Mushroom, a native species to the US, fruits prolifically in spring and fall when temperatures are within the optimal range of 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 23.9°C). This species is photosensitive and requires special growing conditions, such as opaque bags, when cultivated in substrates other than logs.
It's important to note that oyster mushrooms can tolerate temperatures outside the optimal range. Some strains, like the Golden Oyster Mushroom, prefer warmer temperatures, while others, like the Cold Blue Oyster Mushroom, thrive in colder climates. Additionally, the Pink Oyster Mushroom, known for its stunning appearance and rapid growth, prefers the warmth, with an ideal temperature range of 64°F to 86°F (18°C to 30°C).
When growing oyster mushrooms, it's crucial to monitor seasonal temperature fluctuations, especially when cultivating outdoors. In summer, it may be necessary to choose shaded areas or provide ventilation to prevent overheating. Conversely, in winter, an insulated growing space or a heat source may be required to maintain temperatures above 15°C (59°F).
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Cold Blue Oyster mushrooms: 35-50°F
Oyster mushrooms are versatile fungi that can be cultivated in a variety of temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 30°C (41°F to 86°F). However, the Cold Blue Oyster Mushroom is an exception. This strain, native to South Carolina, thrives in colder climates and requires specific temperature conditions to grow and fruit.
Cold Blue Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are unique in their preference for colder temperatures. They are native to South Carolina and have a temperature range of 35-50°F for optimal growth and fruiting. This is significantly lower than most other oyster mushroom varieties. At temperatures below 35°F, the fruit can freeze if growing outdoors on logs, but it will defrost without any cellular damage as long as it remains attached.
To induce fruiting in Cold Blue Oyster Mushrooms, a ""frost shock"" is required. This involves exposing the mushrooms to cold temperatures, which signals the start of the fruiting process. This technique is not commonly needed for modern strains, but it is essential for this specific variety.
When cultivating Cold Blue Oyster Mushrooms, maintaining proper humidity is crucial. While temperature ranges may be forgiving, humidity directly impacts the mushrooms' development. Humidity levels between 85-90% are ideal for healthy mushroom growth. Additionally, ensuring good ventilation and oxygen supply is essential for the mushrooms' growth and survival.
Growing Cold Blue Oyster Mushrooms requires patience, as they may take several weeks to fully develop. Harvesting should occur before the caps are fully open to ensure the best flavor and texture. With the right conditions, these mushrooms can thrive and provide a bountiful yield.
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Pink and Yellow Oyster mushrooms: 18-30°C
Oyster mushrooms are quite versatile and can be grown in a variety of temperatures. However, the specific temperature range depends on the type of oyster mushroom being cultivated.
Pink and Yellow Oyster mushrooms, for example, prefer warmer temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F). These mushrooms are known for their vibrant colours and fast growth, with pink oysters being one of the quickest oyster mushroom strains. They can be ready for harvest in as little as three weeks.
To ensure optimal growth, it is important to maintain proper humidity levels, which should be between 85% and 90% for most oyster mushrooms. A simple thermometer can help monitor the temperature, and a water mister can be used to maintain humidity. Additionally, providing sufficient oxygen through good ventilation is crucial for the growth of healthy mushrooms.
It is worth noting that while oyster mushrooms can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, they may still be affected by seasonal fluctuations. During the summer, it is important to choose shady spots or provide ventilation to prevent overheating, while in winter, insulation or a heat source may be necessary to maintain temperatures above 15°C.
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Warmer climates produce lighter caps
Oyster mushrooms are highly adaptable and can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from 5°C to 30°C (41°F to 86°F). However, the specific temperature requirements vary across different strains of oyster mushrooms. For example, the Aspen oyster mushroom, a hardwood-loving strain, has a colonisation temperature range of 70-75°F and a fruiting temperature range of 60-74°F. The Brown Oyster Mushroom, native to the US, fruits optimally at temperatures between 50-75°F.
Warmer climates and higher temperatures influence the appearance of oyster mushrooms, particularly the colour and thickness of their caps. The Aspen oyster mushroom serves as a prime example of this phenomenon. When cultivated in warmer conditions, these mushrooms exhibit lighter-coloured caps, ranging from light brown to dark brown. Conversely, lower temperatures tend to produce darker caps.
The Pink Oyster and Yellow Oyster mushrooms, known for their vibrant colours, also favour warmer temperatures, typically between 18°C and 30°C (64°F and 86°F). These strains thrive in warmer climates and can be harvested within 3 to 4 weeks. Their preference for higher temperatures is reflected in the colour and texture of their caps, which tend to be lighter and thinner at elevated temperatures.
While oyster mushrooms are relatively adaptable to temperature variations, maintaining optimal humidity levels is crucial for successful cultivation. Higher temperatures demand more careful humidity management. Warmer climates or higher temperatures can lead to dehydration, impacting the appearance and growth rate of oyster mushrooms. Therefore, growers must ensure adequate humidity to counter the effects of warmer conditions.
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Incubation temperature: 20-24°C
When it comes to cultivating oyster mushrooms, maintaining the right temperature and humidity is crucial. While oyster mushrooms are not overly fussy about temperature, the right temperature range will ensure faster growth, denser clusters, and fleshier mushrooms.
During the incubation period, oyster mushrooms thrive in a warm environment, specifically 20-24°C. This temperature range promotes even growth and encourages the mycelium to colonize the substrate. A simple thermometer can help monitor the temperature in the grow room, which can be adjusted by insulating the room or using a heating or cooling system.
While oyster mushrooms can withstand a wide temperature range, from 10-30°C, it is important to note that higher temperatures may result in lighter clusters, thinner caps, and paler colours. Therefore, maintaining the ideal temperature range of 20-24°C during incubation is essential for optimal growth and development of oyster mushrooms.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that different strains of oyster mushrooms have specific temperature preferences. For example, the Pink and Yellow Oyster mushrooms prefer warmer temperatures of 18-30°C, while the King Oyster mushroom thrives in cooler temperatures of 12-18°C.
By providing the ideal temperature conditions, growers can achieve successful cultivation and enjoy healthy, well-developed oyster mushrooms.
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Frequently asked questions
While there is no single "ideal" temperature for oyster mushrooms, they typically grow best in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C.
Oyster mushrooms can grow in temperatures as low as 5°C and as high as 30°C, but they may grow very slowly outside the optimal range of 15°C to 25°C.
Yes, the temperature requirements vary depending on the variety of oyster mushroom. For example, the Pink and Yellow Oyster mushrooms prefer warmer temperatures of 18°C to 30°C, while the Cold Blue Oyster mushroom thrives in colder temperatures ranging from 35°C to 50°C.
To maintain the ideal temperature, you can insulate your grow room and use heating or cooling methods as needed. A thermometer can help monitor the temperature. If growing outdoors, consider the seasonal temperature fluctuations and provide shade or ventilation during the summer to prevent overheating.
The water temperature should be close to the room's air temperature, typically around 13°C to 17°C. Avoid using very cold water (below 10°C) or warm water above room temperature, as it can lead to unpredictable condensation.
