Water Extract from Spent Mushroom Substrate of Hericium erinaceus Suppresses Bacterial Wilt Disease of Tomato

This research demonstrates how waste material from mushroom cultivation can be repurposed to protect tomato plants from a devastating bacterial disease. The spent mushroom substrate from Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane mushroom) was found to have multiple beneficial effects including killing harmful bacteria, boosting plant immune responses, and promoting plant growth. This provides an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. Impacts on everyday life: • Offers organic farmers a natural option for protecting tomato crops • Helps reduce agricultural waste by recycling mushroom growing materials • Could lead to lower costs for tomato production by reducing crop losses • Provides a safer alternative to chemical pesticides for home gardeners • Demonstrates sustainable solutions for both waste management and crop protection