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Indoor vs outdoor mushroom cultivation, which is actually better? This question can’t be answered that easily as it depends on multiple factors.
The growth of mushrooms is greatly influenced by their environment. Light, humidity, and the level of CO2 are the most critical factors in creating a conducive growing environment for mushrooms. The amount of fresh air is also important, albeit less specifically.
Different types of mushrooms react differently to changes in these environmental factors. For instance, button mushrooms (Agaricus Bisporus) can develop normally without any exposure to light. On the other hand, oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) require a certain level of light to fruit properly. Lions Mane (Hericium erinaceus), on the other hand, thrive well with higher levels of CO2.
When grown outdoors, mushrooms may appear different from those grown indoors because it’s challenging to replicate outdoor conditions in a controlled environment. Now let’s take a look at whether indoor or outdoor cultivation is the best practice for you.
Advantages of Indoor Mushroom Cultivation
There are quite a few factors that can be taken into consideration when it comes to indoor cultivation. Although indoor cultivation is limiting in some ways, it just may be a better option for beginners who are looking to perfect the art of growing mushrooms. This is due to the complete environmental control over the parameters of your grow. Additionally, there are other factors such as no slugs or mushroom-eating bugs and independence from outdoor climate.
Ease of Cultivation
In order to grow tasty mushrooms in the comfort of your home, you won’t need any fancy equipment or complex machinery for plowing or spraying fertilizers. Instead, it can be achieved by using agricultural waste products and some basic equipment that is probably already laying around in your cupboard such as jars, a pressure cooker, bags, and cling wrap, for example.
Most of these supplies can be found on Amazon.com (Affiliate link).
Minimal Maintenence
Maintenance is one of the most time-consuming aspects of cultivating pretty much anything. Once a suitable environment is established for mushroom cultivation, very little or no maintenance is required to facilitate growth. Typically, mushrooms and fungi grow independently in moist conditions, and minimal effort is necessary to achieve optimal yield.
No Land Required
Indoor mushroom cultivation can be done by using wooden planks or shelves with carefully controlled moisture conditions. Unlike traditional crops, it doesn’t require land to grow, making it suitable for cultivation in any location with appropriate conditions. It can be done in a dark area of your garage, basement, or under the sink. Additionally, the basic requirements for mushroom yield are minimal, further simplifying the cultivation process.
Year-round Cultivation
As indoor mushrooms that are grown indoors don’t get affected by external weather conditions, they can be grown at any time of the year. This will allow you to have a consistent and reliable supply of fresh and tasty mushrooms.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Mushroom Cultivation
When it comes to outdoor mushroom cultivation, there are also some factors to consider. For example, the yields and production can be greater, compared to indoor cultivation. However, it’s dependent on external weather conditions and the season. Let’s take a better look at the pros and cons of outdoor mushroom cultivation.
Pros of Outdoor Mushroom Cultivation
Lower initial setup cost
Growing mushrooms outdoors can be cheaper and require less initial investment. You will definitely need some equipment but not as near as much in indoor growing operations. Outdoor setup can specifically be better if you are considering large-scale grows.
Large-Scale Production
This is one of the most beneficial factors to consider. Large-scale production is greater when done outdoors simply due to the availability of space. This will most likely result in higher yields and, and greater profits (if you are selling them).
Natural Sunlight
When mushrooms grow outdoors, they will eventually get exposed to natural sunlight. It can improve the flavor of the mushrooms, and improve their nutritional content. Studies have shown that mushrooms that are exposed to sunlight have a far greater content of vitamin D.
Cons of Outdoor Mushroom Cultivation
Vulnerable to Weather Conditions
When growing outdoors, mushrooms can easily get affected by fluctuations in weather conditions. For example, extreme heat or cold, heavy rainfall, and drought can all affect your yields.
Contamination Risk
Usually, when the mycelium is established it’s pretty resilient and contamination shouldn’t be an issue. However, in the early stages of development, the risk of contamination from pests, diseases, and other external facts can eventually lead to crop loss.
Read more about contamination in our article here.
Longer Seasonal Growing Cycle
As outdoor cultivation is limited to specific seasons and climates, the growing cycle can be eventually longer. This could result in a longer turnaround harvesting time. It can additionally have an impact on your supply of mushrooms at the end.
Indoor vs Outdoor – Factors To Consider
It’s essential to consider various factors before choosing between indoor and outdoor mushroom cultivation. There are three main factors to consider, that will determine the quality of your yields and how much will you capitalize on your mushroom-growing operation.
Environmental Factors
This is by far the most critical factor to consider. Indoor cultivation is done in a controlled environment, meaning that you have full control over all parameters of the growth. You can easily regulate temperature, humidity, air exchange, and light conditions. This level of control can help in the optimization of growing conditions, whit will eventually affect the yields. On the other hand, outdoor cultivation is susceptible to changes in weather which can negatively impact growth. There is not much you can do as the weather can sometimes be unpredictable. However, outdoor cultivation is rewarded by higher yields, better flavor, and nutritional profile.
Cost and Resources
The cost and resources used for mushroom cultivation can vary, depending on the exact method used. Generally speaking, indoor cultivation will require higher initial setup cots. To calculate everything, you will have to take the cost of the equipment, climate control system, and electricity into account. Although more expensive, indoor cultivation can yield more consistent and reliable results. On the other hand, outdoor cultivation may require a plot of land to grow on which can be a limiting factor for some mushroom cultivators.
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Market Demand
To have a prolific growing operation, researching the market and its demands is another critical factor to consider. For example, button mushrooms and oyster mushrooms are commonly found in many stores and markets across the country. Gourmet mushrooms are easier to sell, but the competition is higher. On the other hand, mushrooms like Chaga and Cordyceps are not widely available. It’s important to analyze the market and decide which practice will have the best returns.
Indoor vs Outdoor – Cost Comparison
How much does it cost to start growing mushrooms? Well, the cost varies depending on several factors, such as the type of mushrooms and the amount you plan to grow. If you’re growing mushrooms for yourself, the cost can range anywhere from $60 to $200 per month. If you’re starting a business, the costs can be much higher, including expenses for equipment, operating space, licenses, and more, which may add up to around $2,000-$3,000 per month.
Indoor cultivation is definitely more expensive, but in the end, with continual yields and a controlled environment, it’s much better suited for people who are looking to grow commercially.
Compared to indoor mushroom cultivation, outdoor mushroom cultivation is relatively inexpensive. All you need is a suitable location outside, and you can get started with just a substrate and spawn. Starting a mushroom bed outdoors can cost you $50 or less, as you only need to purchase fresh spawn and substrate, which you can eventually source for free. Another good thing about outdoor mushroom beds is that they continue to produce seasonally.
Final Word
Both indoor and outdoor mushroom cultivation methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Indoor cultivation provides greater control and more consistent yields. On the other hand, the outdoor bed is dependent on the season and environmental factors but keeps producing mushrooms year after year. In the end, it all comes down to your personal preference, resources, and goals.
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