Intercropping with Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus columbinus) Enhances Main Crop Yield and Quality

Abstract

This research trial was conducted in the open field to assess the integrated cultivation of oyster mushroom Pleurotus columbinus and field-grown vegetable crops. Oyster mushroom intercropped within cabbage (Brassica oleracea var capitata) and cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var botrytis) rows at the beginning of even head or curd formation. Data revealed superior intercropped cabbage and cauliflower growth parameters and higher yields compared with the respective sole cultivation. Pleurotus columbinus fruiting bodies weight, cab diameter, and total yield were significantly higher for mushroom intercropped with cauliflower than with cabbage. However, no differences or inconsistent differences were observed in fruiting bodies number, cab thickness, stem length, and stem diameter. Analysis of some mushroom fruiting bodies chemical composition showed that mushroom/cabbages intercropping surpassed mushroom/cauliflower intercropping in total phenols. However, no significant difference was observed between cabbages and cauliflowers concerning crude protein, total antioxidant activity, and total flavonoids. It is concluded that oyster mushroom/cabbage or cauliflower intercropping can provide additional marketable protein-rich food as well as enhance cabbage and cauliflower crop productivity based on sustainable practice.