Question By: Mycorrhizal fungi, or simply mycorrhizae, are an important group of fungi that form symbiotic relationships with the roots of most plants. The word "mycorrhizae" comes from the Greek words "mykes," meaning fungus, and "rhiza," meaning root. These fungi have been around for millions of years and have played a critical role in the evolution of plants.
Mycorrhizae are found in most soils and are essential for the health and growth of many plants, including crops, trees, and wildflowers. In fact, it is estimated that over 90% of all plant species form mycorrhizal associations. These fungi act as an extension of the plant's root system, increasing the plant's ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil.
There are two main types of mycorrhizae: endomycorrhizae and ectomycorrhizae. Endomycorrhizae, also known as arbuscular mycorrhizae, are the most common type of mycorrhizae and are found in the roots of almost all types of plants. Ectomycorrhizae, on the other hand, are found mainly in the roots of trees, such as oak, pine, and birch.
So, what are the benefits of mycorrhizal fungi?
Increased Nutrient Uptake: Mycorrhizal fungi increase the surface area of a plant's root system, allowing the plant to absorb more nutrients from the soil. The fungi also produce enzymes that break down complex organic matter in the soil, making it more available to the plant.
Improved Soil Structure: Mycorrhizal fungi help to improve soil structure by producing a sticky substance called glomalin. This substance helps to bind soil particles together, creating larger soil aggregates. This improves soil aeration, water retention, and the ability of the soil to support plant growth.
Increased Resistance to Disease: Mycorrhizal fungi have been shown to increase a plant's resistance to disease by inducing systemic resistance. This means that the plant is able to defend itself against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Increased Tolerance to Environmental Stress: Mycorrhizal fungi help to increase a plant's tolerance to environmental stress, such as drought, high temperatures, and soil salinity. This is because the fungi help to increase the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil, making it more resilient to adverse conditions.
Increased Plant Growth and Yield: Mycorrhizal fungi have been shown to increase plant growth and yield in a wide range of crops, including corn, wheat, soybeans, and tomatoes. This is because the fungi help to improve the plant's nutrient uptake and increase its ability to withstand environmental stress.
Why you should be adding mycorrhizal fungi to your garden
There are many benefits to adding mycorrhizal fungi to your garden. We’ve listed a few for you here.
Creates a living rhizosphere
When adding a biological element to a growing operation it tends to create more life. The addition of mycorrhizae will help other microbes thrive, for instance beneficial bacteria. The hyphae create a mycelial super-highway upon which bacteria can navigate on and around the rhizosphere. In this video you can see how they move! These bacteria also play pivotal roles, from nitrogen fixation all the way to plant protection. This living rhizosphere creates a new ecosystem where all the organisms benefit from the presence of one another and help each other, compared to an inert media with no biology in it (otherwise known as dirt). A win-win situation.
Larger root surface
In undisturbed soils the mycelial network can extend for miles and connect multiple plants together, sharing the same fungal network. A larger root surface area will help in many things, such as water, nutrient and mineral absorption. Another thing this will help with is transplant shock. Plants inoculated with mycorrhizal fungi have higher survival rates and show more vigour compared to when there is no symbiosis between the two.
Defense mechanism
Research has shown that mycorrhizal fungi can protect plants against certain soil-borne pathogens, such as Fusarium, Pythium and parasitic nematodes.
Increased nutrient uptake
The AMF will help absorb NPK but also provide the plant with microelements such as iron, zinc, manganese and others. This is especially important when it comes to flower production. With the help of AMF, the plants can absorb a higher amount of phosphorus translating into higher yields and larger buds!
Based on 30 years of scientific research and development, DYNOMYCO® creates the ideal environment for healthier and stronger plants.
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