In our gardens, there exists a hidden web that works tirelessly beneath the soil surface to support the growth and vitality of our plants. It's called mycelium, which is the body of what we are most familiar with; mushrooms! They form what are called mycorrhizal relationships with our trees and plants which create a symbiotic underground network that benefits all.
Mycorrhizae, derived from the Greek words "myco" (fungus) and "rhiza" (root), represent a harmonious symbiosis between plants and fungi.
Why is Mycorrhizal Fungi SO Important to a Healthy Garden?
The fungi entangle themselves into the cell walls of plant roots to trade carbohydrates (sugars) which are produced through photosynthesis, for essential nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen uptaken by the fungi through the decomposition of organic material. This natural economy is an exchange between two organisms that would otherwise not be able to thrive without the other.
Beyond the exchange of essential nutrients, mycorrhizal fungi can also:
Enhance Water and Nutrient Uptake:Â Mycorrhizal fungi extend the root system of plants through their extensive networks which increases the root surface area and allows for more efficient uptake of nutrients. The mycelial network can also access even the smallest amount of water in soil pores that roots cannot reach which enhances the plant's ability to survive in drought conditions.
Disease Resistance:Â Mycorrhizal fungi can help protect plants from soil-borne pathogens by outcompeting harmful microorganisms in the soil. They can also excrete microbiotic-like compounds to ward off other plant diseases or pathogens.
Soil Structure and Health:Â The presence of mycorrhizal fungi improves soil structure by promoting the aggregation of soil particles. This enhances soil aeration, water infiltration, and root penetration, contributing to overall soil health.
Mycorrhizal relationships shine brightest in adverse conditions such as drought or in nutrient-poor soils. Plants that are in partnership with fungi exhibit greater resilience and adaptability than those without which decreases the need for additional watering or fertilizing. The fungi provide a buffer against environmental stressors and enhance the plant's capacity to withstand harsh conditions.
How Can Mycorrhizal Fungi Help Your Garden?
If you seek to be a more sustainable gardener, a great place to start is encouraging mycorrhizal connections by inoculating your garden. You can innoculate as early as planting seeds, planting more established plants or your already planted garden. RootRescue is one of my favourite brands to use as it does not contain any invasive strains of fungi to Canada. Incorporating mycorrhizal fungi into gardens, will promote more resilient plants and will not only benefit the environment but will also contribute to healthier, more nutrient-rich produce if growing food or medicine.
They're Essential Beyond the Garden too!
Mycorrhizal relationships play a pivotal role in maintaining the health of wild ecosystems as they facilitate nutrient cycling, enhance plant diversity by coevolving unique relationships with certain plants that would otherwise not survive, they support the resilience of ecosystems to environmental changes, and link plants together in an interconnected web of underground communication. Dr. Suzanne Simmard of the University of British Columbia, discovered the major role mycorrhizal fungi play to the health of forest ecosystems, aiding in the establishment of new seedlings and the overall resilience of mature trees.
As we deepen our understanding of this hidden world beneath our feet, we unlock the potential for more sustainable and resilient garden practices. Let us celebrate and nurture these quiet champions, for they hold one of the keys to a greener, more harmonious future.