5 Mycorrhizal Inoculants That Are Effective And Safe For Your Garden

Mycorrhizal fungi are a crucial part of any garden’s ecosystem. Not only do they help to improve soil quality, but they also provide benefits to plants such as increased yield and resistance to pests and diseases. If you’re looking for an effective mycorrhizal inoculant, there are a few options available on the market today. In this article, we will introduce you to five of the best mycorrhizal inoculants and explain why they are such a beneficial tool for your garden.

What are Mycorrhizal Inoculants?

There are a variety of commercially available mycorrhizal inoculants that are effective and safe for use in gardens. Mycorrhizal inoculants are products that contain spores of the fungus Mycobacterium smegmatis, which helps to increase the growth of beneficial fungi in the soil.

Some well-known mycorrhizal inoculants include Metamucil, Fertilizer Additives, and SEP-Gro. Metamucil is a product made from corn or soybean flour and water that has been treated with mycorrhiza fungus spores. Fertilizer Additives is a mix of ammonium sulfate, potash, and phosphate that is also treated with mycorrhiza fungus spores. SEP-Gro is a mixture of septenated petroleum distillates (solvent), humic acid, peptides, and minerals that has been treated with mycorrhiza fungus spores.

All three types of mycorrhizal inoculants should be applied at a rate of 1/2 cup per 1000 square feet before planting seeds or seedlings. For best results, apply the inoculant until plant growth indicates saturation has been achieved. Once plants have established, it’s normal for the level of application to decrease by half each year as new root systems develop.

What are their uses?

There are several types of mycorrhizal inoculants that can be used in gardens. These inoculants promote beneficial fungi growth and improve the interaction between plants and their soil. Inoculants can improve plant health, help plants resist pests and diseases, and increase yield.

Some common mycorrhizal inoculants include:

-Fungicides: Fungicides kill harmful fungi but also harm some beneficial fungi. Use fungicides sparingly and only when necessary, as they can also damage plants. Choose a fungicide formulation designed for your garden’s specific conditions and target the fungal disease causing organisms.

-Inoculant powders: Powder formulations of mycorrhizal inoculants are easy to apply by hand or with a garden sprayer. Powders are available in both liquid and dry forms, making them convenient to store and use. Powders must be mixed with water before application, so read the label carefully before purchasing. Once applied, powders will slowly dissolve into the soil to activate the mycorrhizae fungus population.

How to use them?

There are many mycorrhizal inoculants on the market that can be used in your garden. Some are effective and safe, while others may not be as effective or safe. Before using any mycorrhizal inoculant, read the product label carefully to determine if it is appropriate for your garden and whether it has any adverse effects.

Some effective mycorrhizal inoculants include:

-Forestry products such as bark, leaves, and sticks

-Organic composts or manure

-Soil Amendments such as bonemeal or guano

-Mycorrhiza Fertilizers

-Inoculum (starter)Plug grown from a mycelium of a certain fungus or bacterium

Some of the less effective mycorrhizal inoculants include:

-Commercial fertilizers with synthetic ingredients

-Soil Amendments high in phosphorus (such as dolomitic lime)

What are the risks and benefits of using Mycorrhizal Inoculants?

The Benefits of Mycorrhizal Inoculants

There are many benefits to using mycorrhizal inoculants in your garden. Mycorrhizae help plants exchange nutrients and water with the soil, which can increase growth and yield. Additionally, they protect plants from pests and diseases. A study published in 2013 found that mycorrhizae can improve crop yields by as much as 25%.

However, there are also risks associated with using mycorrhizal inoculants. If used improperly, they can damage or kill plants. Additionally, some mycorrhizal products may contain fungicides or other chemicals that could be harmful to humans or animals. It is important to research any mycorrhizal product before use to ensure that it is safe and effective for your garden.

Conclusion

If you are looking to improve the health of your plants and increase their yields, mycorrhizal inoculants may be the answer. Mycorrhizae are a type of fungus that helps plants absorb nutrients from soil. They do this by attaching themselves to plant roots, where they secrete enzymes that break down plant cell walls. When using a mycorrhizal inoculant, you supply the fungus in an easily absorbed form so that it can work its magic on your plants’ behalf. There are many available options, but make sure to choose one that is safe for both you and your plants before getting started.