What Types Of Trees Benefit Most From Mycorrhizal Fungi In Urban Environments?

In urban environments, most tree species can benefit from mycorrhizal fungi associations, but some types of trees show particularly strong relationships with these beneficial organisms.

Oak trees: Oaks form strong associations with ectomycorrhizal fungi, which can significantly improve their nutrient uptake and stress tolerance in urban settings.

Pine trees: Like oaks, pines also form ectomycorrhizal associations, making them well-suited to benefit from these fungi in urban areas.

Maple trees: Maples can form arbuscular mycorrhizal associations, which help them adapt to urban conditions.

Woody trees: Most woody tree species benefit from mycorrhizal partnerships, as these associations aid in nutrient acquisition and stress management.

Trees planted outside their usual habitat: Trees that are introduced to urban environments different from their native habitats can significantly benefit from mycorrhizal fungi additions during planting.

It's important to note that while both arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) and ectomycorrhizae (EcM) can benefit urban trees, their effects may differ. EcM fungi generally provide better root protection against soil-borne pathogens, while AM fungi have low host specificity and can promote plant coexistence and productivity.

It’s important to note that urban environments often have lower mycorrhizal colonization rates compared to rural areas, with studies showing 37% and 33% lower colonization rates for arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal fungi, respectively. This suggests that artificial inoculation or soil management practices may be necessary to maximize the benefits of mycorrhizal fungi for urban trees.

How Are Mycorrhizae Treatments Applied?

There are two primary ways mycorrhizae can be effectively applied to trees or shrubs. When planting a new tree or shrub mycorrhizae can be added to the planting hole either dry or mixed with water. The entire circumference of the planting hole should have the product placed around it. Secondly, mycorrhizae can be applied the same way a deep-root fertilization is done. A fertilization lance is inserted into the ground under the canopy of the tree and a liquid solution of water plus mycorrhizae is injected into the ground. Fertilizers can be added to the solution to provide additional benefits to the tree.

Contact Owen Tree & Lawn Care today to have your trees inspected and find out how mycorrhizae can help your landscape plants.