Plant Health Care
Helping New Trees Grow In Dryden's Diverse Soils
| May 02, 2025
Pine seedling roots with mycorrhizal fungi, allowing the plant to obtain nutrients from a bigger volume of soil. Photo: David Read, author of Mycorrhizal Symbiosis.
Mycorrhizae-enhanced fertilizer offers significant benefits for tree establishment in Dryden, Michigan's varied soil conditions. Mycorrhizae are a group of beneficial fungi that attach themselves to plant roots. Mycorrhizae can be added to a planting hole or mixed with water and injected into the soil after a tree is planted.
These beneficial fungi form symbiotic relationships with tree roots, dramatically extending their reach and improving nutrient uptake. For newly planted trees in Dryden, mycorrhizae can increase transplant survival rates by up to 50% and promote faster root development.
This is particularly advantageous in areas where construction or other disturbances have depleted the natural soil ecosystem. The extensive network of fungal hyphae acts as an extension of the tree's root system, increasing the absorptive surface area by up to fifty times. This enhanced nutrient absorption capability is especially helpful for trees planted in Dryden's suburban areas, where soil quality may be poor.
Mycorrhizae fungi help trees access essential nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen more efficiently, reducing the need for additional fertilizers. Furthermore, mycorrhizae contribute to improved soil structure. The fungal networks help bind soil particles together, enhancing soil aggregation and reducing erosion. This is particularly beneficial in areas with poor soil quality, new construction sites, or areas that are prone to erosion, creating a more stable soil environment for tree root growth.
By incorporating mycorrhizae fertilizer into tree planting practices, Dryden residents can ensure better establishment and encourage the long-term health of their trees. This natural solution not only promotes stronger, more resilient trees but also contributes to a healthier suburban ecosystem overall.