Mushroom Cultivation: Halime Uncu's Successful Story
KozanHalime Uncu, a mother of four living in the Türkeli Neighborhood in , discovered her passion after retiring. In order to spend her free time and contribute to the family budget, she started growing mushrooms in the 4 square meter empty room of her house. In this process, she achieved great success by harvesting approximately 75 kilograms of mushrooms in just 2 months.
First Steps to Mushroom Cultivation
Halime Uncu first started mushroom cultivation with 50 kilograms of compost. This experiment was a turning point for her. The successful results she achieved attracted the attention of people around her and demand began to increase. Uncu said, “When I started researching mushroom cultivation, my friends told me not to get involved in it because it would cause me harm. However, I started my own business by producing mushrooms.”
Family Support and Business Growth
Halime Uncu states that her husband also gives her great support. Her husband Ali Uncu not only delivers the mushroom orders but also helps her in this process. “My husband retired, we came here. We love mushrooms as a family. We harvest 2 kilos in 400 months,” says Uncu, and states that she grows mushrooms at home like a child. She prefers to work in a clean environment without letting anyone into the mushroom production area. She also emphasizes that even the water is used for the products through a purifier.
Cost and Marketing Strategy
Ali Uncu states that their family’s aim in the mushroom business is to both have a hobby and save costs. “A harvest of 2-300 kilos is made in 400 months. Many people order from Kadirli and the district. We sell for 100 TL per kilo, but in the markets, this price starts at 160 TL. It is important to save costs. We do not have any labor costs because everything is done by the family,” he said.
Natural and Healthy Products
Halime Uncu attaches great importance to the natural and healthy nature of the products in the mushroom cultivation process. Uncu, who says, “It is not possible everywhere, it is important to have it in a clean area,” is constantly trying new methods to increase the quality of the mushrooms she grows. She aims to work in a healthy environment by paying attention to hygiene rules in compost production processes.
Tips for Success in Mushroom Growing
- Clean and Safe Environment: When growing mushrooms, it is very important to provide a clean environment. Hygiene rules should be followed.
- Choosing the Right Compost: Good compost is essential for healthy mushroom growth. Using quality material will positively affect the results.
- Water Quality: The quality of the water used to water the mushrooms is also very important. Choosing purified water increases the quality of the products.
- A Good Education: Having sufficient knowledge about mushroom cultivation is an important step on the road to success. Doing research and gaining experience will be useful.
As a result
Halime Uncu sets an example with her determination and success in mushroom cultivation. Devoting herself to this business with her family has both provided financial gain and allowed her to pursue her hobby. Although mushroom cultivation is a job that requires patience and attention, great success can be achieved with the right methods and a good environment.
