From Rs 35 investment to Rs 1.5 lakh monthly turnover, how this Kerala woman scripted a mushroom success story

In 2009, when mushroom farming was little-known in Kerala, Chithralekha ventured into it with nothing more than curiosity. Today, her farm in Vengad Panchayat, Kannur, is a flourishing enterprise that produces fresh oyster mushrooms, spawn, and value-added products. 

What started as a humble experiment with Rs35 investment has transformed into a thriving business that not only supports her family but also inspires a growing community of mushroom farmers in her locality.

The taste that sparked curiosity

The journey began unexpectedly when Chithralekha bought a packet of mushrooms from her friend to try for the first time. She loved the taste. “I was fascinated by this unique food item and wanted to see if I could grow it myself,” she tells 30Stades.

Also Read: Five mushroom farmers who started with Rs1000 investment and now clock lakhs per month

Chitralekha procured a small spawn packet from her friend and some paddy straw to experiment with, all costing Rs35. It was February, a time not ideal for mushroom farming, as the rainy season is typically better. “Despite that, I began cultivating mushrooms," she says.

Her small-scale trials were successful, and her fascination turned into a passion. Over time, she gradually expanded it, hanging mushroom grow bags under staircases and tables at her home.

"Four years ago, I purchased a two-story building to house my mushroom farm. Today, my facility includes 2,000 mushroom beds, which yield 10–12 kg of fresh oyster mushrooms daily," she adds.

Chitralekha uses polypropylene cover hanging bags for growing oyster mushrooms.

Mastering mushroom farming

Initially, Chithralekha followed a basic method taught by her friend. Paddy straw was boiled, dried to retain 40 percent moisture, and used to make mushroom beds. While effective, this method was time-consuming and labour-intensive.

Also Read: How this Haryana professor clocks Rs12 lakh monthly turnover from mushroom farming

The turning point came when her husband, Ajay Kumar, discovered a lime treatment method during his stay in the Gulf.

"Lime, when used correctly, could simplify the process and reduce labour. It took several trials to get the right ratio," Chitralekha says. 

"After much experimentation, we perfected the formula: 2.5 kg of lime mixed with 200 litres of water. The hay is soaked in this solution for 36 hours, then strained and dried to achieve the ideal moisture level. A washing machine or sunlight is used for drying," she shares.

The prepared beds are kept in a controlled environment with a temperature of 22–26°C and humidity levels of 80–90 percent. Within 25 days, the first harvest is ready, and each bed yields mushrooms for about 2.5 months.

The waste after harvesting mushrooms is converted into vermicompost in her facility.

Steering challenges and innovations

As with any farming venture, challenges are unavoidable. Pests and diseases are common threats, particularly Trichoderma, a fungal infection that can quickly spread across beds. “If one bed is affected, it must be moved away immediately to prevent the spread,” she says. 

“Quality spawn is another critical factor. Initially, we relied on external sources. But four years ago, we established a lab to produce spawn," she says.

It was set up in her new building. "The initiative was supported by the Horticulture Mission Scheme and inaugurated by the Agriculture Minister during a Krishi Darshan event," Chithralekha shares.

Her husband, Ajay Kumar supports her in mushroom farming. His innovative thinking has played a pivotal role in overcoming challenges. He developed a humidifier machine that simplifies the watering process, a boon for traditional farms. The machine can be programmed with a timer, reducing manual effort and allowing farmers to focus on other tasks. "He also sells the machine based on the demand from farmers," she adds.

Also Read: Doctor Moringa and Doctor Mushroom

Growth and expansion

Chithralekha’s entrepreneurial spirit has driven her to diversify her business beyond fresh mushrooms. Her farm produces spawn sold to other mushroom farmers at Rs50 for a 300 gm packet. Fresh mushrooms are priced at Rs100 for 200 grams and Rs500 per kg.

"Our monthly revenue averages Rs1.5 lakh, though it fluctuates with the seasons. Summer yields are typically lower. Sometimes, we receive bulk orders for weddings (ranging from 20 to 60 kg) and have a loyal customer base. Many customers visit the farm directly, while others opt for home delivery," she adds.

In addition to mushrooms and spawn, Chithralekha has ventured into value-added products.

She produces mushroom powder for baby food companies, pickles, bath soaps, and mushroom chammanthi podi (mushroom gunpowder). These products have expanded her market reach and added a new dimension to her business.

Recognition and support

Over the years, Chithralekha has sought opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge. She attended workshops, including one in Himachal Pradesh, which provided valuable insights into advanced farming techniques.

The Horticulture Mission Scheme has also been instrumental in her journey. She received subsidies, including Rs17.5 lakh (40 percent) for spawn production, Rs11,250 (40 percent) for mushroom cultivation, and Rs1 lakh (50 percent) for a compost unit.

And behind every successful venture is a strong support system, and for Chithralekha, her husband Ajay has been that pillar. Together, they manage the operation with the help of one assistant. “Our growth is a result of hard work, perseverance, and the willingness to adapt,” she says.

Giving back to the community

Chithralekha is committed to sharing her knowledge and encouraging others to explore mushroom farming. She collaborates with Krishi Bhavan to conduct training sessions for aspiring farmers and welcomes visitors to her farm for free hands-on learning experiences. 

Her advice to beginners is straightforward: "Start small, take one step at a time, and learn from every experience. Be adaptable and avoid jumping into high-tech investments at the outset.”

She continues to rely on traditional farming methods. “They have brought consistent returns even with minimal investment. The best example of this is us being able to buy our property—a milestone I wouldn’t have achieved if I had stayed in my old supervisor job at a private company. Work hard, take that leap of faith, and trust that life will reward your efforts," Chithralekha signs off smilingly.

(Chandhini R is a Kerala-based journalist specialising in human interest, entertainment, and art and culture stories).

Also Read: How two brothers in Agra earn Rs2 lakh daily from mushroom farming