Use of Mycorrhizal Fungi in Horticultural Production
Subject:
Improving plant growth and quality with mycorrhizal fungi
Abstract:
The symbiosis between plants and vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi is common in nature (Figures 1-3). Colonization of roots by mycorrhizal fungi can increase plant growth and quality by enhancing nutrient (particularly P) uptake, increasing disease resistance, and reducing senescence. Because most growers use sterile media, which lack mycorrhizal fungi, inoculation of plants by growers may allow them to reduce their use of P fertilizer, a potential source of greenhouse pollution. A major constraint to the use of mycorrhizal fungi in florticulture, however, is a lack of information on their successful and cost-effective use.
Source: • American Floral Endowment Special Research Reports #501
Libraries: Floriculture