Disinfection

Sterilization and disinfection techniques are both used to eliminate or reduce the number of microorganisms present in the growing environment. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to different processes.

Sterilization is a process that involves completely eliminating all microorganisms, including both beneficial and harmful ones, from the growing environment. Disinfection, on the other hand, is a process that involves reducing the number of microorganisms in the growing environment to a level that is considered safe for mushroom growth. Disinfection is typically achieved by using chemicals such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide, or by exposing the growing environment to UV-C light. Disinfection is typically used for materials that are less susceptible to contamination, such as plastic trays, containers, and tools.

The most commonly used disinfectants are isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and bleach. All cultivators stock at least one of these disinfectants and use them regularly to disinfect hands, tools, working surfaces, containers, and any other surfaces involved in cultivation.