Assessing Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus Ostreatus) Growth Performance:

Comparing Traditional Methods with Automatic Sprinkler Systems

RESEARCHERS

BALADAD, Jedrinn

BUENO, Zyra Joy V.

DILIM, Adrian S.

FERNANDEZ, Eunice

FLORA, Jayson

NERI, Dianne Kyla E.

PONCEJA, Dionne Whitney

RONQUILLO, Krisha Ella

Research Teacher

ENGR. JUDAH MAE G. VALENTIN

S.Y 2023 – 2024

 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Traditional sprinkler systems have been fundamental in agriculture, employing

networks of pipes or hoses with strategically placed sprinkler heads. These systems, often

manually operated or timer-controlled, efficiently irrigate fields and crops, albeit with

varying water efficiency. In contrast, automatic sprinkler systems represent a modern

agricultural innovation. They incorporate electronic controls, precision nozzles, and

automated scheduling, providing precise and consistent water distribution. Automatic

sprinklers have revolutionized farming, conserving water resources, improving crop

yields, and reducing labor requirements. Their adaptability extends to diverse agricultural

contexts, from precision irrigation in row crops to orchard and vineyard management,

ensuring optimal resource utilization in modern agriculture.

Traditional sprinkler systems have been widely used in mushroom cultivation

globally, nationally, and locally. However, these systems pose several problems at

various scales. Globally, one of the significant issues is water wastage. A study by Smith

et al. (2018) highlighted that traditional sprinkler systems in mushroom farms around the

world often lead to excessive water use, which is particularly concerning given the

increasing concerns about global water scarcity. Moreover, the global mushroom

industry’s reliance on these systems results in increased energy consumption,

contributing to environmental concerns as demonstrated by Patel and Gupta (2019).

 At the national level, countries face their unique challenges with traditional

sprinkler systems in mushroom cultivation. For instance, in the United States, where

mushroom farming is a significant industry, the inefficiency of traditional systems

exacerbates the strain on local water resources. This issue is well-documented in the

report by the USDA (2020), which discusses the local water supply problems arising

from the conventional use of sprinklers. Similarly, in India, a nation with a burgeoning

mushroom industry, the lack of water conservation practices in traditional systems, as

identified by Jain and Choudhary (2017), raises concerns about sustainable agriculture.

Locally, mushroom farms confront issues with traditional sprinkler systems in

terms of uneven water distribution, leading to inconsistent crop yields, as found in a study

by Lee and Kim (2016) focused on a specific farm in South Korea. This not only affects

the profitability of individual growers but also poses challenges in meeting the local

demand for mushrooms. These problems at the global, national, and local levels

emphasize the need for a more efficient and sustainable approach in mushroom

cultivation to address these pressing issues.

Automatic sprinkler systems have gained widespread recognition as an efficient

and effective method of irrigation in agricultural research. These systems provide a

consistent and controlled distribution of water to crops, minimizing water wastage while

maximizing crop yields. A study conducted by Smith et al. (2018) highlighted the

advantages of automatic sprinklers, emphasizing their ability to adapt to varying crop

water requirements and environmental conditions. The authors noted that such systems

contribute to water conservation and improved crop quality.

 Furthermore, research by Johnson and Brown (2019) underscored the economic

benefits of using automatic sprinklers, as they reduce labor costs and can be easily

customized to specific crop needs. This evidence supports the adoption of automatic

sprinkler systems as a sustainable and efficient irrigation method in modern agriculture.

Automatic sprinkler systems have become pivotal in modern agricultural practices

due to their precise and efficient water distribution capabilities. Research by Anderson

and Smith (2020) highlighted the importance of these systems in optimizing water use,

thus contributing to sustainable agriculture. They demonstrated that automatic sprinklers

can be customized to different crop types, ensuring that water is applied only where and

when it is needed. In a study by Carter et al. (2019), the environmental benefits of

automatic sprinkler systems were investigated. Their research showed that these systems

help reduce water runoff and minimize soil erosion, ultimately enhancing soil health and

preserving water resources. The findings suggest that automatic sprinklers can play a

vital role in sustainable land management practices.

Sprinklers have also been studied in the context of urban landscaping and

residential irrigation. Smith and Davis (2017) conducted research demonstrating how

these systems can improve the aesthetics and health of lawns and gardens. They

emphasized the convenience of programmable timers and zoning features, which allow

homeowners to tailor irrigation schedules to their specific landscape needs.

A meta-analysis by Zhang et al. (2021) synthesized data from various studies

across different regions and climates. Their research confirmed the versatility of

automatic sprinkler systems in adapting to diverse environmental conditions.

 This comprehensive review supported the notion that these systems can

significantly increase agricultural productivity while conserving water resources on a

large scale.

Oyster mushrooms are an ideal choice for testing the effectiveness of traditional

and automatic sprinkler systems due to their sensitivity to environmental conditions,

including moisture levels. These mushrooms thrive in specific humidity ranges, making

them responsive indicators of moisture control. Traditional methods of mushroom

cultivation often struggle to maintain consistent humidity, leading to variable yields and

quality. Automatic sprinkler systems, designed for precise moisture management, offer a

potential solution. By subjecting oyster mushrooms to both methods, we can directly

assess the impact on growth performance, yield, and quality. The sensitivity of oyster

mushrooms to moisture levels makes them a valuable model for evaluating the

effectiveness of irrigation systems in agriculture, ultimately informing more efficient and

reliable cultivation practices. The motivation behind this study stems from the need to

explore and evaluate the impact of modern irrigation systems, specifically automatic

sprinkler systems, on mushroom growth performance.

The research titled "Assessing Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) Growth

Performance: Comparing Traditional Methods with Automatic Sprinkler Systems” delves

into the realm of mushroom cultivation, specifically focusing on irrigation techniques.

The primary objective of this research is to assess the impact of automatic sprinkler

systems on oyster mushroom growth performance when compared to traditional

cultivation methods. By conducting a systematic comparison, we aim to determine

whether the adoption of this technology can lead to more efficient and reliable mushroom

cultivation practices.

The study will examine key metrics such as yield, size, and uniformity of

mushroom harvests, as well as resource consumption and labor requirements.

By examining the effectiveness of these modern irrigation systems, the study can

contribute valuable insights into enhancing the efficiency and reliability of oyster

mushroom cultivation. Key metrics like yield, size, uniformity, resource consumption,

and labor requirements will be thoroughly evaluated to assess the advantages and

feasibility of adopting automatic sprinkler systems in mushroom farming.

Statement of the Problem

Oyster mushrooms are a valuable and popular species in the edible fungi industry,

and their growth performance is greatly influenced by the cultivation methods applied.

Typically, they are grown using traditional manual methods that involve hand-spraying

water. These methods often vary in terms of consistency and efficiency, leading to

inconsistencies in mushroom growth rates. This inconsistency can impact not only the

quantity but also the quality of the harvest.

The primary objective of this study is to provide comprehensive data and analysis

to assess the impact of irrigation methods, specifically by comparing traditional manual

watering methods with automatic sprinkler systems, on the growth performance and

overall productivity of mushroom cultivation. The study is expected to address the

following questions:

1. What are the differences in yield, height, and weight of oyster mushrooms

(Pleurotus ostreatus) when cultivated using traditional manual watering methods

versus automatic sprinkler systems?

2. How does the automatic sprinkler give more advantages and better usage than

the traditional manual watering methods in the cultivation of oyster mushrooms?

3. What are the potential challenges and limitations encountered when

implementing automatic sprinkler systems in oyster mushroom cultivation?

Hypotheses:

1. Yield, height and weight of oyster mushrooms

Ho: There is no significant difference in the yield,height and weight of oyster

mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) cultivated using traditional manual watering methods

and automatic sprinkler systems.

Ha: There is a difference in the growth rates and yield of oyster mushrooms

(Pleurotus ostreatus) cultivated using traditional manual watering methods and automatic

sprinkler systems.

2. More Advantages and better usage of automatic sprinkler

Ho: There is no advantanges that the automatic sprinkler can give than the

traditional manual watering methods.

Ha: Automatic sprinkler systems results to have better usage and more

advantages compared to traditional manual watering methods in mushroom cultivation.

3. Challenges, limitations, or obstacles associated with the implementation of

automatic sprinkler systems in mushroom production.

Ho: There are no challenges, limitations, or obstacles associated with the

implementation of automatic sprinkler systems in mushroom production.

Ha: Challenges, limitations, or obstacles are associated with implementing

automatic sprinkler systems in mushroom production.

Conceptual Framework

INPUT

 Cultivation Methods
 Resources
 Mushroom Strains
 Experimental Parameters

PROCESS

 Data Collection
 Data Analysis
 Environmental Control
 Record Keeping

OUTPUT

 Comparative Growth Performance

 Yield
 Statistical Findings
 Recommendations
 Research Insights
Significance of the Study

This study is important to assess the growth performance of oyster mushrooms

(Pleurotus Ostreatus) while comparing traditional methods with automatic sprinkler

system. The results of the study will benefit the following:

1. Farmers and Growers: This research can directly benefit farmers and

mushroom growers by offering valuable insights into improved cultivation methods,

which could lead to higher yields and increased profitability.

2. Agricultural Industry: The findings may have broader applications in the

agricultural sector, particularly in the context of automated systems, potentially leading to

more efficient and sustainable practices for other crops as well.

3. Environmental Impact: The use of an automatic sprinkler system for

mushroom cultivation could have a positive environmental impact by reducing water

wastage, making it a more sustainable option compared to traditional irrigation methods.

4. Students and Researchers: This study serves as an educational resource for

students and researchers in the field of agriculture, offering practical knowledge about

research methodologies, data analysis, and their implications in real-world agricultural

settings.
Scope and Delimitation

The study will be conducted at Naguilian National High School, focusing on their

oyster mushroom cultivation facilities. The study will specifically assess the growth

performance of oyster mushrooms, which are commonly cultivated at the school. The

research will compare two methods for oyster mushroom cultivation: the traditional

manual watering method and an automatic sprinkler system. The study will encompass a

defined period, typically several months, to gather data and make comparative

assessments. Data will be collected through measurements of oyster mushroom growth

parameters, such as yield, size, and growth rate.

References

1. Smith, A., Brown, D., & Johnson, S. (2018). Water Use in Global Mushroom

Farming: Challenges and Opportunities. International Journal of Agriculture

and Environmental Sciences, 5(2), 76-85.

2. Patel, R., & Gupta, S. (2019). Environmental Impacts of Mushroom

Cultivation: A Comprehensive Review. Sustainability, 11(18), 5087.

3. USDA. (2020). Mushroom Farming and Water Sustainability in the United

States. United States Department of Agriculture.

4. Jain, A., & Choudhary, A. (2017). Water Management in Mushroom

Cultivation: A Case Study from India. Journal of Sustainable Agriculture,

41(5), 560-574.

5. Lee, J., & Kim, S. (2016). Evaluation of Water Distribution Uniformity in a

Mushroom Farm with Traditional Sprinkler System. Journal of Agricultural

Engineering Research, 24(3), 214-220.

 CHAPTER II

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

Phase No. 1: Set Up Mushroom House

A mushroom house was set up at Naguilian National High School Senior High in

Phase 1 of the research project to examine the growth characteristics of oyster

mushrooms (Pleurotus Ostreatus). The experiment compares the use of an automated

sprinkler system with conventional farming techniques. Because of the controlled

atmosphere provided by the school setting, it was possible to observe and analyze the

mushroom growth process in great detail. In order to produce ideal circumstances, the

setup required adjusting variables including temperature, humidity, and light. This stage

prepared the way for a thorough examination of the variables influencing oyster

mushroom growth in the setting of a learning institution.

Working Design
Phase No. 2: Automatic Sprinkler Installation

Working Design

Cost Analysis

Phase No. 3:Coding

Phase No. 4: Subtrate and Mushroom Preparation

Use substrate organic material, rice straw, on which growth of mycelium takes

place to produce mushrooms. Pasteurize the rice straw by using steam or by using hot

water treatment (70°C) to the substrate for few hours. This is to avoid the occurrence of

diseases with better yield. Then thoroughly combine the pasteurized rice straw and

mycelium. Place the mixture inside the polypropylene plastic bags and then tie it. Make

10 bags of mushrooms, 5 bags for the manual sprinkler and then 5 bags for the automatic

sprinkler.

Phase No. 5: Experimental Treatments

The experimental treatment in this study involves comparing the growth

performance of Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) using traditional methods of

cultivation with the use of automatic sprinkler systems. The aim is to assess whether the

automatic sprinkler systems have an impact on the growth, yield, or other aspects of
mushroom cultivation compared to the traditional methods. This may involve measuring

factors such as growth rate, yield quantity and quality, resource usage, and other relevant

parameters. The study is designed to investigate the potential benefits or drawbacks of

using automatic sprinkler systems in Oyster mushroom cultivation.