Root Rescue
Myco = mushroom, rhizae = root
Mycorrhizae = root fungus
When we make compost for compost teas and extracts, we are able to grow bacteria, fungi, protists, nematodes and microfauna. We cannot, however, grow mycorrhizal fungi. (we are growing mostly saprophytic fungi).
However, mycorrhizae are esseintial in the healthy growth and development of most plants.
Mycorrhizal fungi help expand the root zone of plants up to 100-fold, allowing them to reach further and more effectively for water and nutrients. The association helps plants survive drought, high temperatures, soil acidity, and heavy metal contamination.They also coat root surfaces, acting as a barrier of protection against pathogens.
Plants That Obligately Require Mycorrhizae:
- Orchids: All orchids are dependent on mycorrhizal fungi for germination and early development, as they lack sufficient energy reserves.
- Monotropoid Plants: Species that rely exclusively on mycorrhizal fungi for their carbon source (non-photosynthetic plants).
- Specific Western North American Plants: Certain species are considered obligate to the point of not reaching maturity without their fungal partner, including bitterbrush, sagebrush, and some native bunchgrasses.
- Many Woody Plants: Many trees and shrubs (e.g., Pine, Fir, Oak, Birch, Eucalyptus) rely on ectomycorrhizae for survival in nutrient-poor environments.
Exceptions:
Some plant families generally do not form mycorrhizal associations, such as Brassicaceae (cabbage, broccoli), Chenopodiaceae (spinach, beets), and some proteaceae.
Root Rescue is an Ontario-based mycorrhizal inoculant company, that has the highest diversity of endo-and-ectomycorrhizal spores and propagules on the market.
Since we are all about diversity in restoring soil life, we highly recommend choosing this mycorrhizal product for all of your mid-successional to late-successional plants.
