Managing common pests on mushroom farms
By BENJAMIN SARONDO
Angeline Sarmiento-Fraginal, 32, from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, owns Sarmiento-Fraginal Mushroom Farm (SF Mushroom Farm). Mushroom farms may be vulnerable to infestations, but Angeline said pests are not a reason to stop operating; instead, managing and controlling them can be easy.
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Angeline shares tips on how to manage common pests on mushroom farms:
Yellow sticky trap
Reduce the number of sciarid flies, one of the most common pests on mushroom farms, by placing yellow sticky traps near the mushroom fruiting bags. The bright yellow color will attract the flies, while the odorless and non-toxic glue will trap them, which can help control and prevent their reproduction and reduce their population. Yellow sticky traps can be purchased in hardware stores and online.
Do-it-yourself traps
There are other ways to catch flies on mushroom farms; some materials may be found at home. Some may use water, apple cider, and vinegar; mix them and put them near the infested area. Another way is to use a plate with oil to catch flies. Flies that are attracted to the oil will get trapped, allowing you to collect and remove them from the growing area.
Maggot management
If there are maggots in the harvest, the grower must suffocate the grubs by placing the affected mushrooms in a tightly sealed plastic bag. Keep the bag in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes. The maggots will leave the mushrooms on their own at this time. As the maggots appear on the plastic bag, clinging to the sides, remove the mushrooms, wipe them off lightly, and dispose of the plastic bag. The mushrooms are safe to eat.
This method can help eliminate maggots and ensure the quality of the produce.
Photo by Angeline Sarmiento-Fraginal