Abstract
To evaluate the influence of pasteurization methods on cotton waste substrate on yield of oyster mushroom
(Pleurotus spp. Cotton waste subjected to different methods of pasteurization, namely pasteurization with steam,
hot-water treatment and chemical sterilization with formalin, which were compared with control (without
pasteurization). Three species of Pleurotus i.e. Pleurotus florida, Pleurotus pulmonarius and Pleurotus ostreatus
were selected. Steam pasteurization produced the best results as for as the performances of individual species
are concerned, Pleurotus pulmonarius completed the mycelial growth in the shortest time. Formalin treatment
behaved poorly as the different Pleurotus spp, took maximum time to complete mycelial growth. Steam
pasteurization technique produced more yield, whereas Pleurotus florida behaved better in all the treatments than
other species. Substrate was analyzed chemically for N: P: K to determine their contents at different stages. N: P:
K contents were increased after the completion of mycelial growth in all the treatments, but were decreased after
fructification as the fruiting bodies consumed nutrients for their growth.
