The name mycorrhiza comes from “myces” and “rhiza” representing the symbiosis between fungi and roots.
The two most widely used and recognized types of mycorrhiza are Endomycorrhizae and Ectomycorrhizae.
Differences between Endo and Ectomycorrhizae
Endo mycorrhizae: The mycelium of the endo mycorrhizae invades the root and then penetrates the interior of the cells.
Ectomycorrhizae: The mycelium of ectomycorrhizae invades the root, but unlike endo mycorrhizae, these do not enter the interior of the cells. More than 90% of plants of all types enter into symbiosis with mycorrhizae.
Benefits of mycorrhizae are as follows
- Activation of the roots.
- Greater uptake of npk and water.
- Greater tolerance to heavy metals existing in soils
- Protection of fungi and nematodes.
Application of mycorrhizae in agriculture
Mycorrhizae are applied in seedbeds and transplants manually or automatically. They are not used in irrigation.
The application of mycorrhizae as early as possible in the plant cycle is recommended, allowing it to establish between 2 and 4 weeks before other applications such as trichoderma, bacillus subtilis.
TRICHODERMA
Trichoderma has been and continues to be used in cannabis culture and in organic farming to control root diseases such as Phytophthora, Sclerotinia, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Pythium, etc. Help roots grow strong and healthy
Benefits of trichoderma in agriculture
- Direct competition with other fungi for nutrients and space.
- Production of antibiotic metabolites.
- Direct attack on root pathogenic fungi.
It should be noted the importance of not mixing chemical fertilizers in treatments with Trichoderma to avoid depopulation of them.
Unlike Mycorrhizae, Trichodermas do not enter into symbiosis with the plant, so if the mycorrhizae are well established, the contribution of Trichoderma will be a great additional benefit to the plant.
Application of trichoderma
We recommend applying Trichodermas after 2-4 weeks after the mycorrhizae have established, as long as you decide to work with the two beneficial fungal genera.
They will be applied via irrigation once a month to ensure the Trichoderma population in the rhizosphere.