The garden is prepped and now all you need are plants brimming with new life. You’re sure to have great success. After all, you’ve done everything you can, right? There’s a gardening game changer you won’t want to miss – fungi!
What is it?
Mycorrhizal fungi are beneficial micro-organisms that play a huge role in the ecosystem. Although, they are generally “out of sight, out of mind” for most. Beneath the earth, these microbes form a branching thread-like system.
Of the millions of estimated fungus species, there are approximately 6,000 mycorrhizal varieties. These are generally divided into two categories: those that penetrate a plant’s root cells and those that do not. In either case, the outcome is positive!
How does it work?
The advantageous relationship between mycorrhizal fungi and plants is mutual. So, mycorrhizae absorb approximately 10 to 20 percent of the sugars a plant produces during photosynthesis. In a fascinating exchange, the fungus returns many essential nutrients that improve the plant’s overall health and resistance to drought.
Since these microbes can move through miniscule soil particles, they expand from several hundred to 2,500 times greater than what the plant’s root system could reach alone. Essentially, the fungus becomes a secondary root system that reaches great distances to bring back resources for the plant’s success.
Imagine one person on top of a hill in need of food, but unable to move from that spot. Then, a large crowd of people form a chain all the way down the hill to pass food up to the person at the top. That’s mycorrhizal fungi!
How to use.
To apply, simply sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon per one-gallon plant in the hole where you’re planting. Alternatively, you can also rub the fungi directly onto the root ball of the plant before placing it in the ground. Or, you could even mix the fungi with water, soaking the roots and spraying the soil with the liquid before planting.
It works wonders, especially for plants like blueberries that only have a shallow, fibrous root system. Without the ability to extract nutrients from afar, these plants are limited to the nutrients in the immediate area.
The takeaway.
Mycorrhizae is a bit of a secret weapon for gardeners and one that’s organic to boot. If you’re not familiar with its benefits, consider giving it a try as you get into the dirt this spring with new plants.
Stop by the Garden Center to get some today or visit with our expert staff to learn more.
