Mycorrhizae & Tree Roots - Best Friends Forever!

We all know that trees have extensive root systems that stretch throughout the ground and deep into the soil, and that they’re used for bringing water and nutrients up into the rest of the tree. But, did you know that tree roots are also feeding their own tiny “hitchhikers,” who in-turn, not only help the tree take up much-needed nutrients, but also connect trees to one another in a complex, underground network?

These “hitchhikers” are called mycorrhizae – a fungus that has a symbiotic relationship with plants. The mycorrhizae take in the excess sugars that the tree’s leaves produce through photosynthesis. Because the mycorrhizae live underground, they are unable to produce their own sugars, so the tree roots literally keep them alive.

In return, the mycorrhizae give tree roots the ability to take up nutrients that their normal roots would not be small enough to access. By helping trees increase their root surface area, the mycorrhizae can help trees survive in otherwise difficult conditions.

Since city soils are often compacted and nutrient-depleted, having a strong mycorrhizal network for your trees can help boost their health by allowing them better access to essential nutrients like magnesium and phosphorous. At Cohen & Master, we have created a custom mycorrhizae inoculation that can be added to your fertilizer or ArborGain™ treatments to help give your roots an extra boost!

Give your arborist a call today to see if your trees could use a little help from their fungus friends!