In Papua New Guinea, despite the favourable climatic conditions for mushroom cultivation, with distinct wet and dry seasons, the crop remains underutilized, according to Richard Lazarus, Executive Manager of the Western Highlands Provincial Division of Commerce, Culture, and Tourism.
Speaking in Nebilyer, Lazarus highlighted the country's growing demand for mushrooms, particularly from hotels and mining sites. He identified nine types prevalent in hotel kitchens, including White Button, Cremini, Chanterelle, Truffle, Oyster, Shiitake, Porcini, Morel, and Portobello mushrooms.
Lazarus emphasized the simplicity of mushroom farming, which primarily uses local materials for construction, fertilization, and cultivation. He referenced the traditional mushroom seasons in the Highlands, where villagers forage for mushrooms guided by nature's signals. With the right cultivation methods, Lazarus believes mushroom farming could enhance income and food security in Papua New Guinea. He mentioned ongoing efforts to promote mushroom cultivation among farmers in the Western Highlands and encouraged wider adoption across the Highlands region.
Source: postcourier.com.pg