BUTTON MUSHROOMS GROWING COURSE
11-13 February 2025
A 3-day mushroom growing workshop. Tailored for commercial farms where you will learn techniques needed for high-yielding mushroom farming
The course starts on 11 February 2025
There are only 5 spots left.
€1200 instead of €1500
for the course ON FARM
Need help? Write to us on
- Venue: Farm FUNGUS S.C. BRACIA MARCINIAK Wioska 2, 64308, Poland
- Dates: February 11-13, 2025
- Duration: 3 days (9:00 AM - 4:00 PM)
- Languages: English, Polish
- Nearest Airport: Poznan Airport
- Reccommended Hotel: Hotel Reśliński
Who is this course for?
This course is for you if you are already cultivating or planning to cultivate button mushrooms on a commercial scale or in large quantities.
This course does not include spawn and compost production.
Growers
We will be able to answer all your questions in mushroom growing. From filling to harvesting. Our technologists will not only explain but also demonstrate the correct solutions to your growing challenges.
Farm Owners
You will be able to learn how your farm should operates. You will compare your farm with results from other farms and see what you can do to achieve similar or better results and the best equipment for your farm
Farm Management
You will be able to learn how to manage the farm efficiently, and compare your results with farm managers of other farms. You will learn how you can improve the quality and yields of your farm while lowering costs.
Interested parties
The course will also be interesting and useful for those who are just planning to begin their journey in commercial mushroom cultivation.
We also invite those who would like to visit mùshroom farms around the world.
Learn From the Experts
Author & trainer
Wojtek Konieczny
With over two decades of experience in the mushroom cultivation industry, Wojtek has been involved in every aspect of mushroom farming. He has worked with two of the largest compost producers in Europe, guiding commercial farms through the complexities of mushroom production. Since 2020, Wojtek has been running his own consulting firm, helping farms optimize their operations and increase yields. His clients regularly report improved crop quality and increased production efficiency after working with him.
Course Description
We’ll cover key elements of mushroom cultivation technology, allowing for high yields (up to 33 kg/m² from two flushes) with excellent product quality.
Topics
Raw materials
Selecting and preparing compost and casing soil.
Filling Shelves
Filling the growing room with head-filling machines.
Cooldown pinning
Configuring cooldown/cold-shocking processes.
Watering
Managing water recovery stages and misting techniques
Growing Environment
Сlimate control settings during all stages of cultivation process
Q&A sessions
Interactive Q&A sessions with industry experts.
This course includes:
- A general tour of the farm
- Six 1.5-hour sessions in the mushroom growing room with practical demonstrations
- Three days of classroom sessions lasting 2-4 hours
- A tour of the compost production facility
- Handouts and gifts from our sponsors
Your results after the course:
You Will Learn
- how to achieve high yields on a modern farm
- to achieve the highest mushroom quality
- to work with compost and casing soil
- understand the methodology for watering techniques
- discover how Polish farms achieve outstanding results
VENUE
FUNGUS S.C.
The cooperative began its operations in 1995, and after its latest expansion in 2013, it now produces 450 tons of mushrooms per month, with 120 pickers handling the harvesting. This year, the farm was fully equipped with new automated trolleys. The farm’s products are sold in the UK and EU markets.
Two years ago, the cooperative acquired a composting plant and now operates using its own compost. As a bonus for course participants, we will organize a tour of the composting facility.
SPONSORS
This workshop organized with support from CHRISTAENS GROUP, AGRO PROJECTS, GROW-TIME ENGINEERING
Frequently asked questions
What level of experience is required to attend this course?
We do not require a specific level of knowledge to join the course. However, please note that this course is not intended for hobbyists or those growing mushrooms at home. It is focused exclusively on industrial mushroom cultivation.
What language will the course be conducted in?
The course will be conducted in English and Polish.
Is this course suitable for beginners?
This course is not for complete beginners. We welcome attendees who may lack mushroom production experience, but we will not address basic questions. You should have at least a foundational understanding of mushroom cultivation on an industrial scale.
What types of mushrooms will the course cover?
This course covers only the cultivation of white and brown button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus).
Will I receive any hands-on training during the course?
Yes, you will gain practical knowledge throughout the course. Everything discussed will be demonstrated on a farm where the course is held.
Does the course include a farm tour?
Yes, the course includes a tour of the farm and a visit to a compost production facility.
Will there be any practical sessions on composting and casing soil preparation?
While the course does not cover compost or mycelium production, we will demonstrate the preparation of casing soil to ensure it has the correct structure for cultivation.
Do I need to bring any materials or equipment to the course?
No, you do not need to bring anything. You will receive a packet of materials, a notebook and pen, a lab coat, and personal protective equipment.
Can I record videos or take photos during the course?
Yes, you are allowed to take photos and videos. However, the publication and distribution of lengthy course recordings is prohibited.
How long does the course last, and what is the daily schedule?
The course lasts 3 days, with sessions lasting 6-8 hours per day, depending on the pace of the group.
Is accommodation included, or can you recommend nearby options?
Accommodation is not included in the course fee. We recommend Reśliński Hotel for your stay.
What should I expect to learn by the end of the course?
The course covers all aspects of mushroom cultivation (excluding harvesting) from loading the growing chamber with compost and applying casing soil to the removal of spent compost. We will delve deeper into processes where participants have specific questions.
Are there any prerequisites, like knowledge of agriculture or biology?
No prior knowledge of agriculture or biology is needed to attend this course.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion?
Yes, you will receive a UMDIS certificate of completion. UMDIS is not an official educational institution, but our certificates are proudly displayed by many successful companies.
Can I ask specific questions about my own farm or cultivation challenges?
Absolutely, we encourage you to ask questions relevant to your situation. We will do our best to provide answers that apply to your farm’s needs.
How many participants are typically in each class?
Each class will have a maximum of 15 participants.
Is this course focused solely on button mushrooms, or will it cover other types as well?
This course is focused solely on button mushrooms. No other mushroom varieties will be discussed.
Does the course include any information on mycelium or compost production?
The course does not cover mycelium or compost production. The farm’s process begins with pre-made compost loaded onto the growing shelves.
Will the course discuss the economic aspects of mushroom farm operations?
No, the course does not include any economic aspects of mushroom farming.
Are there any ongoing support or resources after the course ends?
The course does not include follow-up support or tailored advice for individual situations after completion.
Will the training include disease management?
The training will cover basic and general rules for disease prevention and management but will not address specific diseases individually.
What is the group size?
The group size will be limited to a maximum of 15 participants.
Is this course based on Phase 2 or Phase 3 compost?
Most recommendations in this course will primarily apply to Phase 3 compost. However, we will provide guidance on adapting the processes for Phase 2 compost as needed.
Do you guarantee that I will achieve a 33% yield per square meter after completing the course?
No, we cannot guarantee specific results. However, your instructor is a seasoned expert who has successfully trained technologists at many Polish farms achieving high yields.
What is the refund policy if I am unable to attend the course?
We will refund the full amount if you inform us of your inability to attend at least two weeks before the course start date. If you inform us less than two weeks prior, we cannot guarantee a refund.
Is employment provided to those who complete the course?
No, employment is not provided upon course completion.
Do the organizers assist with obtaining a visa?
After booking and paying for the course, we will send you an invitation letter, which you can include in your visa application documents for the embassy. Beyond this, we are unable to provide additional assistance with the visa process.
Is this course based on Phase 2 or Phase 3 compost?
This course takes place on a farm that uses Phase 3 compost, and most data provided during the course will pertain to Phase 3 compost.
Refund policy
If you are unable to attend the course, we will refund the full amount provided you notify us at least two weeks before the course start date. If you inform us of your inability to attend less than two weeks before the course begins, we cannot guarantee a refund.
In the event that the course is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer, a full refund will be issued to all registered participants.
Payment options
Payment by Visa and MasterCard – WayForPay.
Bank transfer – request and invoice here.
Contact information of the organizer
Private entrepreneur
Yenchenko Maksym
Tax ID 2870701232
Legal address: m.Kyiv, vul.Zarichna, Bud 2 Korp.3, sq.12.
maksym.yenchenko@umdis.org
tel. +38 (067) 506 45 21