UM3 Substrate delivers unexpectedly fast results.

Umame has recently started development of a new sawdust based growing medium specifically for the cultivation of Shiitake (Lentinula Edodes). The UM3 substrate - an enriched mixture of Eucalyptus sawdust - is primarily intended to facilitate Shiitake cultivation on a pasteurized growing medium rather than a sterilized medium as is the norm for this type of mushroom.

Typically, enriched substrates that are pasteurized tend to contaminate much more frequently than would be the case had the substrate been sterilized, but in UM3 we found this not be the case. The UM3 substrate did require a few minor tweaks compared to the normal substrate preparation regime, but the overall cost of the UM3 substrate is still significantly lower than normal and contamination rates remained well within commercially acceptable liimits.

All replications of our UM3 trials exibited vigorous spawn growth that resulted in complete substrate colonization within 21 days after spawning and the characteristic popcorning effect was clearly visible 7 days thereafter. ( View Photos of UM3 Substrate Trials )

We will be reporting back on the fruiting results as the trial nears conclusion

We wish to thank Dr. Ronel Van Rooyen at Mycophiles for her extremely valuable contribution during the development of this very promising substrate and for all the technical advice so generously provided throughout this trial.

Keywords : UM3,Shiitake,Lentinula Edodes,trials,colonization,pasteurized,sawdust,enriched,