Vital for the Health & Vitality of Plants
Mycorrhizae fungi plays a vital role in the health of plants, and the symbiotic relationship between the fungi and plants provides the backbone to a plants vitality. We have collected a number of images from around the web to demonstrate the effects of the mycorrhizae and provide explanations on what is happening beneath the surface.
Brief History of Mycorrhizae
Mycorrhizae has been around for at least 400 million years. The relationship of fungi with the roots of plants have been known since the mid-19th century. However early observers simply recorded the fact without investigating the relationships between the two organisms. The symbiotic relationship was first studied and described by Franciszek Kamieński in 1879–1882, further research was then carried out by Albert Bernhard Frank, who introduced the term mycorrhiza in 1885.
Plays a Role in Plant Communication
Despite an increased knowledge in mycorrhizae function we are still learning about mycorrhizae and their incredible relationship with plants. Scientists have recently discovered that the fungus network ‘plays a role in plant communication’ and can communicate the onset of an attack from aphids by making use of an underground network of fungi.
Occurs Naturally in the Soil
Mycorrhizae fungi occur naturally in soil but you can give your plant a boost when you plant them by adding some more. The fungi attach themselves to the plants roots and spread out making a network of fine fibres which in effect increases the total surface by which water and nutrients can be absorbed by plants.
Recent Comments