The Fungi Beneath Us

Mycorrhizal fungi can be found in some of the most naturally fertile soils on earth, symbiotically interacting with the root systems of plants to obtain sugars and carbon, and in return extending the root system of plants to increase nutrient uptake well beyond the capability of the original roots alone.

Due to the fine microscopic hair-like structure of mycorrhizae, this help to create a "soil web", or in other words soil that resists compaction, retains water, and spreads nutrients evenly where host plants are found. Additionally, mycorrhizae sequester a considerable amount of carbon back into the soil using glomalin, and together with humic acid work to reduce soil erosion and nutrient run-off.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mycorrhiza


I decided to use the Mykos 60 inoculant product, to introduce beneficial Mycorrhizal fungi into my garden soil. Here is the MSDS sheet and overview of Mykos.

Many natural gardeners purport the benefits of this product, because it is purely endo (in roots) mycorrhizae and because it is so easy to apply when preparing your transplant target site. I believe, when combined with the proper amount of humus, microbiological bacteria, and trace elements, Mycorrhizal fungi approximate natural conditions far beyond what a seasonal compost layer or mulch decomposition can provide. The amount of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides is reduced by healthier plant root establishments, primarily due to the inclusion of these beneficial fungi.