Mycorrhizal Fungi, 30 propagules per mL

Mycorrhizal Fungi, 30 propagules per mL

An endomycorrhizal inoculant on a vermiculite base at 30 propagules per mL. Dust it onto the roots at transplant so the fungi can colonise the root and trade phosphorus, other nutrients and water for the plant's sugars.

At a glance

• Type: mycorrhizal inoculant (endomycorrhizal fungi on a vermiculite carrier)
• Analysis: 30 propagules per mL
• Contains: Glomus intraradices, Glomus mosseae
• Use for: transplanting, seed beds, potting mix, root dips; most useful in sterile media and bare soil
• Rate: 1.5 to 3.5 tablespoons per square metre, worked into the top 25 to 100 mm of soil where the roots will grow

What it is

Two species of endomycorrhizal fungi, Glomus intraradices and Glomus mosseae, on a new vermiculite base at 30 propagules per mL. Endomycorrhizal fungi grow into the root cells themselves, which is the type that partners with most vegetables, herbs, fruit and annual crops.

What it does

• The fungus grows a network of threads out from the root into soil the root hairs cannot reach, and trades phosphorus, nitrogen and water for the plant's sugar.
• It is most useful in sterile potting media or bare soil, where no mycorrhizal fungi are present to start with.
• Spores do not move through soil. The inoculant has to touch the root to work.

How to use

• Apply directly to the roots or the transplant hole, as early in the plant's life as possible.
• Sprinkle onto roots at transplant, work into seed beds, blend into potting mix before transplant, or use as a root dip.
• In soil: work into the top 25 to 100 mm where the roots will contact it, at 1.5 to 3.5 tablespoons (about 22 to 52 mL) per square metre.
• Dust the rootball again at every up-pot. Watered through the soil, most of it is wasted.

Learn more in fifteen seconds

• Mycorrhizae go on the roots
• Mycorrhizal fungi: ecto and endo
• Too much P turns mycorrhizae down

Handling and storage

• Wear a mask to avoid inhaling particles and open in a well ventilated area.
• Wear gloves and eye protection, and wash hands after use.
• Once opened, keep sealed and dry, away from heat.
• Made from organic materials that contain living microorganisms, with mineral additives.
• Heat sensitive. Keep it away from heat sources; excessive heat can render the fungi inactive.
• Heavy phosphorus feeding winds the partnership back: when phosphorus is plentiful the plant stops paying the fungus.