Agroecological Aspects of Cultivation Shiitake Mushroom in Ukraine

Abstract

Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes (Berk.) Pegl.) is currently the second mostly cultivated mushroom in the world. It's valued for its exotic taste, flavor and nutritional value. The aim of our work is complex analysis of agroecological aspects of cultivation Lentinula edodes. There are two main cultivation techniques - growing on logs and on sawdust substrate. Cultivation on logs is considered traditional in Far East (Japan, China, Korea, etc.) and cultivation on sawdust substrate is new and very popular in USA, Europe. In Ukraine shiitake is still novelty, only a few farms are growing this mushroom. Main challenges for Ukrainian growers are: choosing of right cultivation technique, need of introduction of the product to local consumers, price support and ensures the profitability of production. The article provides general information about shiitake mushroom, growing techniques and cultivation in Ukraine.