making it challenging for companies to produce peat-based casing soil. The goal of the company was to create a casing material that closely mimics the physical, chemical, and bioselective characteristics of peat-based soil. The company researched over 20 types of mate- rials, including sunflowers, corn, recycled paper, wood fibre and spent compost. They trialled these materials in a research container that simulated natural mushroom growing conditi- ons. Most trials indicated that increasing the proportion of alternative materials in a natural peat resulted in decreased yields. However, spent compost proved to be an exception, achie- ving a third flush and yielding 28.5 kg/m2 of white button mushrooms. This material also showed the least vulnerability to green mould infections. At the end of the presentation the speakers posed five key questions: are they ready to pro- duce casing soil using 50% non-peat materials? Is it necessary to modify the production process? Will it be more expensive than traditional casing soil? Is it still worth applying natural peat? Are we able to produce peat-free casing soil? All the questions were answered affirmatively.
Celebrations The final part of the event celebrated the 25th anniversary of the SBGU and honoured Krystian Szudyga for his continuous dedication to deve- loping mushroom production in Poland. A representative from the Ministry of Agriculture attended the conference, reading a letter of thanks to the industry leaders and acknowled- ging the contributions of key individuals. Among them was Urszula Sztandera-Kardas- zyńska who established one of the first compost production facilities in Poland and significantly developed the mushroom industry, particularly in Eastern Poland. Her colleagues highlighted her efforts in creating a robust mushroom industry in the region that is now a leading one in Europe. Other association members were also recognised for their contributions.
The conference concluded with a motivational speech by Dorota Wellman and in the evening, participants were invited to a glamorous ban- quet and a concert by Sylwia Grzeszczak, one of the most popular pop-singers in Poland.
Wim van Vugt of Christiaens Group presenting new harvesting solutions.
Wokas R&D manager Kamila Kondera talking about peat alternatives.
Award winners on stage at the closing celebration.
Sylwia Grzeszczak in action
Photos: Piotr Drzymała and Wokas MUSHROOM BUSINESS 45
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