Mycorrhizae are a type of beneficial symbiotic association between plant roots and certain fungi. The benefits of mycorrhiza are numerous and essential for the health and growth of plants. These fungi form a network of fine threads that extend out into the soil, allowing the plant to access nutrients and water that would otherwise be unavailable. In return, the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates that it produces through photosynthesis. This mutually beneficial relationship has been found to enhance the plant’s ability to resist diseases, pests, and environmental stressors, such as drought and nutrient-poor soils. Moreover, mycorrhizae have been shown to improve soil structure, enhance soil fertility, and promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms. Overall, the benefits of mycorrhiza have significant implications for agriculture, forestry, and environmental conservation.
This association is widespread in nature, with mycorrhizal fungi forming symbiotic relationships with over 90% of all plant species. The word mycorrhiza comes from the Greek words myco, meaning fungus, and rhiza, meaning root.
The role of mycorrhiza in plant growth and health is well-documented. Mycorrhizal fungi colonize the roots of plants, forming a network of hyphae that extends into the surrounding soil. This network increases the surface area of the plant’s roots, allowing them to absorb more water and nutrients from the soil. In return, the fungi receive sugars and other nutrients from the plant.
There are several types of mycorrhiza, but the most common are arbuscular mycorrhiza, ectomycorrhiza, and ericoid mycorrhiza. Each type has its own unique benefits.
Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM):
AM is the most widespread type of mycorrhiza, and it is found in over 80% of vascular plant species. The fungi involved in AM form arbuscules, which are structures that penetrate plant root cells. The benefits of AM include:
Increased nutrient uptake: AM fungi help plants take up nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium from the soil.
Improved water uptake: AM fungi help plants take up water from the soil, which can be particularly beneficial in dry environments.
Increased plant growth and productivity: AM fungi can enhance plant growth and yield by improving nutrient and water uptake.
Ectomycorrhiza (EM):
EM is a type of mycorrhiza that is found in many tree species, including oak, beech, and pine. The fungi involved in EM form a sheath around the plant root, but they do not penetrate the root cells. The benefits of EM include:
Increased nutrient uptake: EM fungi help plants take up nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from the soil.
Improved water uptake: EM fungi help plants take up water from the soil, which can be particularly beneficial in dry environments.
Protection against pathogens: EM fungi can help protect plants against soil-borne pathogens.
Ericoid Mycorrhiza (ERM):
ERM is a type of mycorrhiza that is found in many heathland plant species, including blueberries, cranberries, and heather. The fungi involved in ERM form a dense network around the plant root. The benefits of ERM include:
Increased nutrient uptake: ERM fungi help plants take up nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from the soil.
Tolerance of acidic soil: ERM fungi can help plants grow in acidic soils, which can be particularly beneficial for heathland species.
Protection against pathogens: ERM fungi can help protect plants against soil-borne pathogens.
In addition to their benefits for plants, mycorrhizal fungi also play an important role in soil ecology. They are involved in nutrient cycling and can help to break down organic matter in the soil. Mycorrhizal fungi can also form symbiotic relationships with other soil organisms, such as bacteria and protozoa, which can further enhance the health of the soil ecosystem.
Despite their many benefits, mycorrhizal associations can be disrupted by a variety of factors, including agricultural practices, pollution, and climate change. For example, the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides can kill mycorrhizal fungi, as can the application of lime to soil. Additionally, increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide can alter the balance of carbon and nitrogen in the soil, which can affect mycorrhizal associations.
Efforts are underway to better understand and protect mycorrhizal associations. Research is being conducted on the effects of agricultural practices on mycorrhizal fungi, as well as on ways to promote mycorrhizal associations in agricultural systems. In addition, mycorrhizal fungi are being explored as a potential tool for remediation of contaminated soils.
Best practices for using mycorrhiza in gardening:
Use mycorrhizal inoculants: Inoculants are a quick and effective way of introducing mycorrhiza to the soil. When choosing inoculants, it is crucial to choose the right type of mycorrhiza for the plants you are growing. For example, endomycorrhizae are best for most vegetables, while ectomycorrhizae are better suited for trees.
Apply mycorrhiza at the right time: It is important to apply mycorrhiza at the right time to ensure maximum benefits. For instance, it is best to apply mycorrhiza when transplanting seedlings or when planting new plants.
Ensure proper soil preparation: Before applying mycorrhiza, it is important to prepare the soil properly. This involves removing any weeds or debris, tilling the soil to a depth of at least six inches, and adding any necessary amendments such as compost or fertilizer.
Water the soil after application: After applying mycorrhiza, it is important to water the soil thoroughly to ensure that the mycorrhizae make contact with the roots of the plant.
Best practices for using mycorrhiza in farming:
Use mycorrhizal inoculants: Inoculants are an efficient way of introducing mycorrhiza to the soil in farming. When choosing inoculants, it is crucial to choose the right type of mycorrhiza for the crops you are growing. For example, endomycorrhizae are best for most row crops, while ectomycorrhizae are better suited for fruit trees.
Apply mycorrhiza at the right time: It is important to apply mycorrhiza at the right time to ensure maximum benefits. For instance, it is best to apply mycorrhiza when preparing the soil before planting.
Apply mycorrhiza uniformly: It is important to apply mycorrhiza uniformly to ensure that all crops benefit from the association. This can be achieved by mixing the inoculant with the soil during tilling or applying it with a seed drill during planting.
Best practices for using mycorrhiza in landscaping:
Use mycorrhizal inoculants: Inoculants are a quick and effective way of introducing mycorrhiza to the soil in landscaping. When choosing inoculants, it is crucial to choose the right type of mycorrhiza for the plants you are growing. For example, endomycorrhizae are best for most landscape plants, while ectomycorrhizae are better suited for trees.
Apply mycorrhiza at the right time: It is important to apply mycorrhiza at the right time to ensure maximum benefits. For instance, it is best to apply mycorrhiza when planting new trees or shrubs.
Ensure proper soil preparation: Before applying mycorrhiza, it is important to prepare the soil properly. This involves removing any weeds or debris, tilling the soil to a depth of at least six inches, and adding any necessary amendments such as compost or fertilizer.
Water the soil after application: After applying mycorrhiza, it is important to water the soil thoroughly to ensure that the mycorrhizae make contact with the roots of the plant.
Here are some credible sources for purchasing mycorrhiza:
Online retailers:
Amazon
They have a wide selection of products to choose from, and their prices are competitive.
Etsy
There are a number of sellers on Etsy who sell mycorrhiza products.
The Home Depot
They have a wide selection of products to choose from, and their prices are competitive.
Lowe’s
They have a wide selection of products to choose from, and their prices are competitive.
Walmart
They have a smaller selection of products than some of the other retailers, but their prices are very competitive.
Physical stores:
Garden centers
Garden centers are a great place to buy mycorrhiza. They often have a wide selection of products to choose from, and their staff can help you choose the right product for your needs.
Nurseries
Nurseries are another great place to buy mycorrhiza. They often have a wide selection of products to choose from, and their staff can help you choose the right product for your needs.
Local farmers markets
Local farmers markets are a great place to buy mycorrhiza. You can often find locally-produced mycorrhiza at farmers markets, and you can support your local community by buying from these vendors.
