What are mycorrhizae?

Mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations that occur between the roots of terrestrial plants and certain types of soil fungi. They form an important underground partnership that supports the plant’s survival and overall functioning.

Some advantages of using mycorrhizae in cultivation include:

They strengthen several aspects of the plant, especially nitrogen availability. Nitrogen fixing bacteria release nitrogen to the fungus, and because the fungus lives inside the plant, it transfers it directly.

They increase the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients.

They help prevent diseases by protecting the roots from bacterial and fungal attacks.

They strengthen the roots to withstand periods of high salinity or drought.

Using this bio-input promotes better root activity, improved plant nutrition, and greater stress resistance.

Types of mycorrhizae

Ectomycorrhizae: The fungus forms a kind of sheath with its hyphae around the thinner roots, but it does not penetrate the plant cells. It develops in the intercellular spaces of the root cortex.

Endomycorrhizae: The hyphae of these fungi penetrate the root cells. Inside the arbuscules, nutrient elements are exchanged for carbon between the fungus and the root.

What are the differences between Trichoderma and mycorrhizae?

We already know what mycorrhizae are, but it is important not to confuse them with Trichoderma. They are not used for the same purpose, although they are often applied together as protection against harmful fungi.

Trichoderma, unlike mycorrhizae, is a type of beneficial fungus used primarily in seed treatment to control common fungal diseases in crops. Its benefits include:

Increased capacity to absorb nutrients and water.

Significant reduction in the need for chemical fungicide treatments.

Root protection that results in stronger, healthier plant growth.

How to apply mycorrhizae to your plants

Mycorrhizae should be applied at the correct time, ideally right after transplanting, to ensure maximum colonization.

They are usually applied mixed with irrigation water, and one or two applications during the plant’s life cycle are more than enough. An excess of fungi is not beneficial, so applying once during the vegetative stage and once during flowering is sufficient.

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