The production of mushrooms takes place in specially designed facilities such as mushroom farms. One of the key elements of these facilities are the tunnels in which mushroom growth takes place. Growing tunnel covers play an important role in maintaining the right environmental conditions, which directly affects the quality and productivity of production. What are the types of tunnel covers in mushroom farms? Find out about their properties and their importance for effective cultivation.
Growing tunnel covers – what should they be?
The purpose of tunnel covers in mushroom farms is to fulfil several important functions. Firstly, it is thermal insulation. Mushrooms require stable temperature conditions, and changes in temperature can adversely affect their growth. Insulation helps to maintain the desired microclimate by eliminating temperature fluctuations. So, growing tunnel covers is one of the most important mushroom farm equipment.
Humidity is one of the most important parameters that must be controlled when growing mushrooms. Covers must protect the tunnels from excessive moisture accumulation and condensation, which can lead to mould growth.
Also, various chemical preparations for sterilisation and disinfection are often used in the cultivation process. The covers must be resistant to these substances in order to last for a long time.
Furthermore, the tunnels are exposed to daily wear and tear, and their covers should be resistant to mechanical damage such as abrasions or tears.
What to look for when choosing a growing tunnel cover for a mushroom farm?
Scale of production – in small mushroom farms, where production is on a smaller scale, the choice may fall on cheaper polyethylene covers. In larger facilities, where production intensity is higher, coverings made from Low Density Polyethylene or polycarbonate may be a better choice due to their greater durability.
Climatic conditions – in mushroom houses located in areas with large temperature fluctuations, good thermal insulation is particularly important. In such cases, roof membranes or materials with higher temperature resistance are recommended.
Cost – budget also plays a key role in the choice of material for tunnel coverings. PE membrane is the cheapest option, but it needs to be replaced more often, which can increase costs in the long term. More expensive materials, such as Low Density Polyethylene, are more cost-effective in the long term.
What is important to know about tunnel covers in mushroom farms?
The growing tunnel covers in mushroom farms play a key role in the production process of mushrooms, influencing productivity and quality of cultivation. The choice of the right material depends on many factors, such as the scale of production, climatic conditions, as well as the budget allocated for the investment. Materials such as polyethylene film, PVC film, Low Density Polyethylene or polycarbonate all have their advantages, which need to be adapted to the specifics of the mushroom farm operation. Good thermal insulation, resistance to moisture and chemicals are key features that any tunnel covering should have in order to ensure optimal conditions for mushroom growth.
