Mushroom farming no easy feat, says grower

An experienced mushroom grower in Sirao, Cebu City has shed light on the realities of mushroom cultivation, debunking the common belief that it is an easy livelihood to pursue as it requires precision, dedication, and proper environmental conditions.

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This perspective comes as the Cebu City government’s executive department and Councilor Nestor Archival Sr. have expressed differing views on the viability of the mushroom cultivation program of the Cebu City government.

Yesterday, April 8, 2025, The Freeman visited Whistling Swine Farm in Sirao, Cebu City, where mushroom cultivation has become a primary source of livelihood.

Connie Carey, who runs the farm alongside her husband, shared their journey into the business, which began when they decided to revive an idle farm and transform it into a thriving mushroom-growing venture.

“I think the biggest misconception is that it’s easy and that everyone can just do it. It really takes a lot of effort and time,” Carey told The Freeman.

Recalling their beginnings, Carey said they chose mushroom farming because it doesn’t require a lot of space and therefore doesn’t need a large plot of land.

Despite this, Carey emphasized that there are many considerations when one ventures into mushroom farming. Each “tedious” process of mushroom cultivation requires a person at each station.

One important step is selecting an area that is cool enough, as mushrooms will not grow in hot temperatures. According to Carey, mushroom farming requires 70 to 90 percent humidity.

“You cannot have it too wet either. You really have to be careful. You need to have a climate-controlled area. It’s so hasol than baboy (taking care of livestock),” said Carey.

She added that it requires a lot of attention and precision, including several waves of sterilization to ensure that the area is clean.