PLANT FRIENDLY FUNGI: THE MYCORRHIZAL RELATIONSHIP

Most plants have a beneficial relationship with soil borne fungi known as Mycorrhizal Fungi.  The translation of this 10 dollar word means “Fungus Root”. These fungi grow as elongated string-like cell structures known as mycelium.  Mycelium attach themselves to the fibrous plant roots, and then stretch outward into the soil matrix in search of water and ‘hard to acquire, hard to access’ nutrients reserves in the soil.  In return, the fungi feeds on sugar that is exuded as waste from the plants roots.  Mycorrhizal fungi have the ability to extend into the surrounding soil up to 900% further, faster and more efficiently than the roots of the plant can by themselves.  The plant, whether it is a tree, shrub, perennial, annual or vegetable crop, will benefit from this mutual relationship by:

1. Receiving nutrients that are difficult or impossible for the plant to absorb by itself.
2. Increased drought tolerance
3. Increased disease resistance
4. Increased biological diversity around the plant root zone.  An increase in beneficial soil organisms will provide additional growth and pest resistance benefits to the inoculated plant.
5. Improved soil aeration 
6. Reduced soil erosion and compaction
7. Mycorrhizae produce growth hormones that trigger an extensive branching of the plants' root system.

Almost all potting soil mixes as well as  residential and commercial soils that support lawn and ornamental plants, lack healthy populations of theses very beneficial fungi.  Incorporating a Mycorrhizal Fungi product around the root zone of turf and landscape plants will greatly reduce environmental stress on plants, and ultimately increase plant vigor, reducing labor required to upkeep overall plant health. Mycorrhizae products are non-burning, and using too much won't harm plants or soil.  Lastly, fungicides and synthetic salt-based fertilizers will injure, and possibly destroy mycorrhizal fungi, while organic fertilization helps to encourage healthy mycorrhizal populations.  Look for Mycorrhizal Fungi Products at Marvin’s Organic Gardens Nursery and Retail this spring.  We now offer full lawn and garden inoculations of mycorrhizal fungi.  Please contact us for more information about this special group of plant friendly fungi and related services.