Years ago, the idea was that some tree species would form a mutually beneficial coexistence, a symbiosis, with some fungal species, a mycorrhizal relationship. In this process, the mycelia of the fungus penetrate the cells of the tree roots and the large fungal growth body takes up water and minerals from the soil to supply the tree. In return, the tree provides the fungus with sugars produced by the energy of sunlight.<\/p>\n
So both benefit, because the tree is autotrophic, needing water and minerals to feed itself, and the fungus is heterotrophic, which means it can feed on the assimilates of the plant.<\/p>\n
Time has changed this theory to the extent that it turns out that not a few tree species have such a fungal relationship, but on the contrary, most do and only a few do not. It is therefore worthwhile to help our trees to grow, even in the garden, by adding the right fungal cultures to the soil.<\/p>\n
Mycorrhizal mushroom powder is now available in grocery stores, which can be used to create a mutually beneficial coexistence (symbiosis) between symbiotic fungi living on the roots of trees and trees.
\nThis is best applied at planting time, as it reduces the stress associated with planting. But the fungus will also serve you well later on.<\/p>\n
In the case of water shortages, the root area increases practically with the area of the mushroom, which increases drought tolerance. Water-soluble nutrient uptake can increase up to 100-fold. The applied fertiliser is better utilised in the presence of mycorrhizal fungi.<\/p>\n
In nature, fungi are attracted to plants by special compounds. In fertilized areas, this relationship is typically not established. However, root-associated fungi also play an important role in the formation of an ideal friable soil structure. Proteins produced by fungi, such as glomalin, are one of the best natural glues for soil particles.<\/p>\n
A fungus-associated plant is more resistant to salt, drought and heavy metal stress. It will grow faster and have increased resistance to pathogens and pests.<\/p>\n
Such plants are also more resistant to pathogenic fungi, because of a battle between beneficial, symbiotic fungi and pathogens for infection sites on the root. Mycorrhizal fungi also produce substances that prevent the invasion of other fungi. Experiments have shown that some plants can yield up to 70 percent more in the presence of fungi, due to their multiple beneficial activities (improving nutrient and water supply, keeping pathogenic fungi away).<\/p>\n
Should we wait for them or buy?
\nMycorrhizal fungi can be found in almost all soil types, but they thrive best in slightly alkaline, low-phosphorus and loose-textured sandy soils. So, with the right cultivation practices, the fungus and its host plant are likely to find each other, but this contact can be accelerated by applying a symbiotic fungi preparation or culture to the soil. Then we try to create favourable conditions for them, for example by applying organic fertiliser and compost and maintaining the right moisture levels.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"