| abstract |
A medium for enhancing growth and availability of water during a mushroom life cycle, comprising a synthetic resin and a casing material, the resin consisting essentially of a substantially-linear water-soluble polymer capable of forming a water absorbing network within the casing material, such that the polymer is dispersed within the casing material upon exposure to water and retains water for mycelia to mushroom growth progression. Use of polyacrylamides benefits growth by retaining water, reducing evaporation loss, improving yields, and increasing product distribution into larger size ranges. |