Why You Should Add Mycorrhizae to Your Soil: Stronger Roots, Healthier Plants
Over the past decade, we have become fascinated with microbiomes—from our guts to the soil beneath our feet. And for good reason: these microscopic communities play a critical role in health, whether human or horticultural.
If you're a gardener, you've probably heard the saying, "It's all about the soil." One of the soil's most remarkable residents is mycorrhizae—a microscopic fungus with a massive impact on plant health.
Meet the Mycorrhizae
Mycorrhizae (from the Greek myco, meaning fungus, and rhiza, meaning root) form symbiotic relationships with plant roots. These fungi either attach to or grow into the roots, creating an extended root network that benefits both parties.
You might be thinking, "That sounds parasitic." But it's quite the opposite. Mycorrhizae help plants absorb water and nutrients more efficiently, and in return, they receive sugars from the plants. It's a classic win-win.
Two Types of Mycorrhizae
- Ectomycorrhizae: These form on the outside of plant roots and are most commonly found with trees, especially in forests.
- Endomycorrhizae (also known as arbuscular mycorrhizae): These penetrate root cells and are the go-to variety for most garden plants.
Why Use Mycorrhizae in Your Garden?
Here's what mycorrhizae bring to the table:
1. Bigger, Better Roots
These fungi can expand a plant's root system by hundreds of times. More root surface area means better access to water and nutrients.
2. Water Efficiency & Drought Resistance
With more roots to pull water from the soil, plants stay hydrated longer and need less frequent watering—great news for anyone in dry climates.
3. Soil Stabilization
A larger root system holds soil together better, helping reduce erosion and lock in nutrients.
4. Improved Nutrient Access
Mycorrhizae secrete enzymes that break down hard-to-reach nutrients in the soil, making them available to your plants when needed most.
What's in It for the Fungi?
Mycorrhizae aren't doing this out of the goodness of their fungal hearts—they benefit, too. As plants photosynthesize, they send sugars down to their roots. The fungi feed on these sugars, completing the mutual exchange.
What to Expect in Your Garden
Adding mycorrhizae to your soil can lead to:
- Stronger, more resilient plants
- Increased drought tolerance
- Higher yields and bigger blossoms
- Better resistance to pests and diseases
- Healthier, more biologically active soil
Which Plants Benefit?
Almost all vegetables and flowering plants, except brassicas like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, will benefit. These plants don't form symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizae, but won't be harmed if mycorrhizae are present in nearby soil.
Don't I Already Have Mycorrhizae in My Soil?
Maybe. Natural soils often have fungal life, but tilling, digging, and synthetic fertilizers can destroy or damage these delicate underground networks. Switching to no-dig gardening and ditching chemical fertilizers can help rebuild them. But to jumpstart things, inoculating your soil is key.
Container & Raised Bed Gardening
If you're growing in containers or raised beds, your soil likely doesn't contain any beneficial fungi—most potting mixes are sterilized. Inoculating with mycorrhizae is a game-changer. Your plants will grow bigger, need less watering, and produce more.
What About Houseplants?
Houseplants love mycorrhizae, too. Just make sure to use a water-soluble formula and apply it close to the roots—something like a turkey baster works great for precision. Even cuttings in water can benefit.
Mycorrhizae ≠ Fertilizer
It's important to know that mycorrhizae don't replace fertilizer. They help access nutrients already present in the soil or added via compost, worm castings, etc. Synthetic fertilizers, however, can harm or kill these fungi, so it's best to go organic when possible.
How to Use Mycorrhizae
- Before planting: Mix granulated mycorrhizae into your potting soil or place it in planting holes.
- After planting, apply a water-inoculated form directly to the root zone.
- For seedlings: Dip roots in a reconstituted solution before planting.
Choosing a Product
Many great products are out there, and your choice may depend on what's available locally. Read labels carefully—some brands sell different "types" for vegetables, herbs, and flowers, but they often contain the same fungal strains. Save your money and go with an all-purpose formula.
I've had great results with Great White Mycorrhizal, and the Xtreme Gardening Azos Beneficial Bacteria but there are plenty of reputable options available.
Final Thoughts
When cared for properly, mycorrhizae can thrive in your soil season after season. Avoid synthetic chemicals, minimize digging, and let these incredible fungi do what they do best—boost your plants' growth and resilience from the ground up.
You might find that in a few years, your tomatoes send secret messages to your beans via
More Gardening Help
If you're looking for even more detailed information, check out our gardening section of the website. If you still have questions about planting, growing, and harvesting radishes, let me know in the comments section below or contact me through our private Facebook group.
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