Format this into paragraphs, removing the numbering: To prepare sawdust for mushroom cultivation, I followed these steps: 1. **Select sawdust:** Use hardwood sawdust, as softwood can hinder growth. 2. **Dry sawdust:** Spread in a well-ventilated

To prepare sawdust for mushroom cultivation, I began by selecting the right type of sawdust. It is essential to use hardwood sawdust, as softwood can hinder the growth of mushrooms. Once the type of sawdust was chosen, I dried it thoroughly. This involved spreading the sawdust in a well-ventilated area until it was completely dry. After ensuring the sawdust was dry, I moved on to the sterilization process. This step is crucial to eliminate harmful microorganisms. I employed an effective sterilization method to ensure the sawdust was safe for mushroom cultivation. Next, I soaked the sawdust by submerging it in water for 24 to 48 hours. The goal here was to make the sawdust damp but not saturated. After soaking, I drained the excess water using a colander and allowed the sawdust to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, I mixed the sawdust with mushroom spawn in a clean container to ensure even distribution of the spawn throughout the sawdust. After mixing, I proceeded to pack the mixture into sealable containers. I made holes in the containers to allow for gas exchange, and placed them in a dark, controlled environment. The next phase involved the colonization of the sawdust by the mycelium. I allowed this process to take place over several weeks to months, depending on the specific mushroom species I was working with. Finally, to trigger fruiting, I created optimal conditions, such as adjusting light, temperature, and humidity, according to the needs of the mushroom species.