What are the key conditions for the growth of Maitake mushrooms? -1

2. Temperature

Maitake is a mesophilic mushroom that typically fruits in summer and autumn. Mycelial growth usually occurs in late summer and autumn after spore germination and exposure to temperature fluctuations. The mycelium can grow in a wide temperature range between 3°C and 32°C, with the optimum temperature range being 20–25°C in the autumn. It can also tolerate higher temperatures during the spore germination period in summer. Although growth weakens as the temperature increases, it can still grow above 32°C, but will be severely inhibited at 35°C or higher. The formation of primordia requires a certain temperature fluctuation stimulus, usually initiating at 18–22°C. The fruiting bodies can grow at temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C, with the optimal range being 15–20°C. Lower temperatures slow down growth, while higher temperatures increase the growth rate but may reduce quality.

3. Moisture

In the wild, maitake typically grows at the base or roots of trees. Soil and tree root moisture levels where fruiting bodies are found range between 55% and 70%. The relative humidity of the surrounding air is between 80% and 100%. In artificial cultivation, the moisture content of the substrate is best controlled between 60% and 65%. During the mycelial colonization stage, maintaining an air relative humidity of 60%–70% helps prevent contamination—otherwise, bottle stoppers or sealing paper can become damp and moldy. During the fruiting stage, the relative air humidity should be maintained at around 90%. If the humidity drops below 80%, the primordia may dry out or even die. If the humidity rises above 95%, excessive respiration under high humidity can damage the fruiting bodies and cause rotting.