Mycorrhiza is a revolutionary solution for improving crop yield and soil health. This blog will provide detailed information about Mycorrhiza, its types, benefits, dosage, and the correct method of application to help you achieve better results in farming.
What is Mycorrhiza?
Mycorrhiza is a type of beneficial fungus that forms a symbiotic association with plant roots. This mutually beneficial relationship enhances the plant's ability to absorb water and essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Mycorrhiza can form associations with nearly 90% of plants and is crucial for their growth and survival.
Key Facts About Mycorrhiza:
- Nearly 50,000 fungal species form associations with 250,000 plant species.
- Mycorrhiza is widely present in vascular plants, including crops like wheat, cotton, and vegetables.
Types of Mycorrhiza
There are seven types of Mycorrhiza, but the most common ones are Ectomycorrhiza and Endomycorrhiza.
Ectomycorrhiza:
- Forms an external association with plant roots.
- Does not penetrate root cells but forms a sheath around root tips.
- Commonly found in forest trees.
Endomycorrhiza:
- Penetrates root cells and grows within the root cortex.
- Forms associations with approximately 80% of crops.
- Most beneficial for agricultural plants due to its ability to transfer nutrients directly to the plant.
Subtypes of Endomycorrhiza:
- Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM): The most common type, forming associations with nearly 80% of plant species.
- Orchid Mycorrhiza: Found in orchids.
- Ericoid Mycorrhiza: Found in heathland plants.
Benefits of Mycorrhiza in Farming
Mycorrhiza offers several advantages, including:
Improves Soil Structure:
- Enhances porosity and water-holding capacity.
- Binds soil particles to prevent erosion.
Boosts Nutrient Absorption:
- Promotes root development, enabling plants to absorb more nutrients.
- Helps in mobilizing nutrients like phosphorus and micronutrients.
Enhances Soil Microbial Activity:
- Supports beneficial microorganisms, which improve soil fertility.
Supports Plant Growth:
- Strengthens roots and increases plant resilience to stress conditions like drought.
Precautions for Mycorrhiza Application
- Use Mycorrhiza with organic fertilizers or vermicompost for the best results.
- Avoid using chemical fertilizers or fungicides 7-10 days before or after applying Mycorrhiza, as they may reduce its effectiveness.
Dosage of Mycorrhiza (Bhumiraja)
- For Long-Duration Crops (e.g., Cotton, Sugarcane): Use 8 kg per acre.
- For Short-Duration Crops (e.g., Wheat, Vegetables): Use 4 kg per acre.
Application Method:
- Mix Mycorrhiza with organic fertilizers and apply it evenly in the soil.
Best Stage for Mycorrhiza Application
To achieve optimal results, Mycorrhiza should be applied:
- At the Time of Sowing: Ensures early root association.
- During Vegetative Growth Stage: Boosts nutrient absorption during the critical growth phase.
Conclusion
Mycorrhiza is a game-changer for improving crop productivity and soil health. Apply it correctly to see long-lasting results in your fields. If you found this blog helpful, share it with fellow farmers and subscribe to Katyayani Organics for more farming tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Mycorrhiza, and how does it help plants?
A. Mycorrhiza is a beneficial fungus that forms a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, improving nutrient and water absorption.
Q. What are the types of Mycorrhiza?
A. The two most common types are Ectomycorrhiza and Endomycorrhiza.
Q. How much Mycorrhiza should I use for 1 acre of land?
A. For long-duration crops, use 8 kg per acre; for short-duration crops, use 4 kg per acre.
Q. Can Mycorrhiza be used with chemical fertilizers?
A. No, avoid using chemical fertilizers or fungicides within 7-10 days of applying Mycorrhiza.
Q. When should Mycorrhiza be applied?
A. Apply it during sowing or the vegetative growth stage for the best results.
