Mycorrhizal
/my-koh-RY-zul/🪨 Soil Types●●● Advanced
Also known as: mycorrhizal fungi, mycorrhizae
Pertaining to mycorrhiza — a mutually beneficial association between soil fungi and plant roots. The fungal hyphae extend far beyond the root system, greatly increasing the plant's access to water and mineral nutrients (especially phosphorus), while the plant provides the fungus with sugars from photosynthesis. Over 90% of plant species form mycorrhizal associations. Mycorrhizal inoculants are available commercially and can be applied at planting time.
Etymology
Greek mykes (fungus) + rhiza (root)
Example
“Adding mycorrhizal inoculant to the planting hole helps newly planted trees establish more quickly by enhancing nutrient uptake.”