Glossary term
What is Mycorrhizae?
Short answer
Mycorrhizae are helpful fungi that live on or in tree roots and help the tree take in water and nutrients.
Mycorrhizae, explained for tree service owners
Mycorrhizae are fungi that form a partnership with tree roots. The fungus reaches out into the soil and brings water and minerals back to the tree, while the tree shares sugars with the fungus. Many trees form this partnership. Heavy soil compaction, deep fill, and some chemicals can harm it. For a tree service owner, mycorrhizae are one reason to protect the soil around trees on job sites. Keeping trucks off the root area and spreading wood chips as mulch can help the soil stay healthy. Some companies sell mycorrhizal products, but results vary, so be careful about promises and focus on the basics: good soil, water and space.
Related terms
- Chlorosis
Chlorosis is the yellowing of leaves caused by too little chlorophyll, often from a nutrient or soil problem.
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