Research & Links
Penn State Department of Plant Pathology
This Spent Mushroom Substate Fact Sheet briefly explains mushroom growing, so that the reader knows what is in the prepared substrate, and then describes the characteristics and possible uses of the material.
American Mushroom Institute
Information regarding the use of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) for agricultural purposes.
The United States Composting Council
Information regarding the many uses of compost.
USCC Flower & Vegetables Use Guide
Brochure detailing establishment & maintenance of Flower & Vegetable Gardens.
Download PDF (2 pages 968kb)
USCC LA Short Specs for Compost Use
Brochure detailing the incorporation of compost to improve soil quality and plant growth.
Download PDF (14 pages 337kb)
USCC Lawn Use Guide
Easy to use guide for compost application in the home lawn.
Download PDF (2 pages 1MB)
USCC Trees & Shrubs Use Guide
Easy to use guide for compost application in the home tree & shrub landscape.
Download PDF (2 pages 1MB)
Pennsylvania Landscape and Nursery Association
General and technical information regarding the green industry.
Penn State Universities Center for Turfgrass Science
Information regarding the use of compost for turf grass.
Wetlands Construction
Artillery Fungus
In recent years the use of some types of hardwood mulches have shown increased incidence of infection by artillery fungus. This fungus can cause extensive, permanent damage of property through spore attachment to home siding, automobiles, and other types of personal property.
Recent research by The Penn State University has shown that by incorporating Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) into hardwood mulches, the incidence of artillery fungus can be greatly reduced.
Penn State University – Ag Sciences
Research on Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) to control artillery fungus in mulching products
Understanding Soil pH
From the Ground Up: Soil is soil. Or is it?