Temperature profiles of Agaricus bisporus in composting stages and effects of different composts formulas and casing materials on yield

Abstract

Three compost formulas using different activator materials were prepared for Agaricus bisporus 
cultivation. A locally available casing material known as peat of Bolu district and its different 
combinations with perlite were used. Temperature profiles of all mixtures during composting were 
measured at every composting stages at various depth in order to determine the compostability level of 
substrates. Compost temparature steadily increased until the 10th day of composting and maximum 
temperatures were recorded at the second turning stage of composting. The highest yield of (5124.1 
g/kg) was recorded by wheat straw mixed with pigeon manure (formula number II) with the peat as 
casing material mixed with perlite (80:20 in volume). The most appropriate casing materials was 
appeared to be the peat of Bolu district mixed with perlite (80:20; in volume) for all of compost 
materials