Cultivation of Mushroom (Volvariella volvacea) on Various Farm Wastes in Obubra Local Government of Cross River State, Nigeria

A study on the cultivation of Volvariella volvacea mushroom (Basidiomycetes), a Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP) on different wastes (palm fibers, rice husk and saw dust) was conducted at CRUTECH, Obubra Campus, Cross River State, Nigeria. The aim was to investigate the influence of selected farm wastes on the growth of V. volvacea, so as to organically utilize these farm wastes and minimize the environmental nuisance caused by their burning (incineration). The highest yield of 345 g was recorded from palm fiber, followed by 231 g from rice husk and 146 g from sawdust. Palm fiber is considered the most suitable farm waste for growing V. volvacea. The chemical properties of the various substrates combined to influence the chemical endowment and growth of V. volvacea.