How to Use Mycorrhizae and Plant Biostimulants for Stellar Results
Using Granular or Soluble Mycorrhizae
When using Mycorrhizal Fungi or Plant Biostimulants, proper application to the plant, soil, turf, etc. will guarantee the best results. There are many different products out there, and a lot of different options on how they are applied. We’re going to break down and explain these options. And hopefully bring it to you in the most simple terms possible. If you are looking for more information on what Mycorrhizae or Plant Biostimulants are and how they benefit plants click here.
When you apply Mycorrhizal Fungi, the aim is to make direct root contact.
This holds true for granular or water soluble products; As Mycorrhiza will form a natural symbiosis with plant roots. This greatly expands your plants reach, and allows increased access to the water and nutrients they need to thrive. There are advantages to using a granular or soluble inoculant depending on your situation and conditions. Also, the question of when to apply Mycorrhizal Fungi is important. As you will learn, there are some methods that are more advantageous than others. It really depends on your circumstance, and choosing the most efficient way to get to the roots.
It is best to keep it simple, and not overthink it. Unlike common fertilizers and synthetic chemicals, Mycorrhizal Fungi cannot damage your plants due to using too much or too often; Follow the product instructions for the best results.
Read on to learn how you can find the best option on how and when to apply Mycorrhizae and Plant Biostimulants
How to Use Granular Mycorrhizae
Seeds
Seed banding is a technique where you apply Mycorrhizae into the planting hole or furrow prior to direct seeding. Always keeping in mind proper planting depth, watering in well, and seed germination care. It is typically best to follow the directions on your seed packet.
Seed Coating: Another way to inoculate seeds is to mix the Mycorrhizae directly in the seed packet itself. This is also effective, however, the coverage may not be as complete. Place Mycorrhizal directly into seed packet and make sure to thoroughly coat all seeds.
Transplants/New Plantings
For new plantings, incorporating a granular product, such as EndoBoost Pro, can be accomplished in a number of ways. The Mycorrhizae can be incorporated into your backfill or directly applied to the roots of the planting. Direct root contact is essential for the best results, as it holds the best odds for colonization and success. Simply sprinkle or rub a small amount of Mycorrhizae onto the root ball prior to planting. When using EndoBoost Pro, you will only need 1 teaspoon for a one gallon transplant. As with any other transplanting, make sure to water your plants in well after planting.
Soil Amendment
Incorporating Mycorrhizae into a soil blend or potting mix will also be effective, as you are bringing living, beneficial fungi into your soil. Most store bought, bagged soils are typically lacking these beneficials. This is because they are sterilized to kill off any pathogens that may be in the product. Mycorrhizal products are alive. And Mycorrhizae needs a root mass to colonize and survive. When you add a Mycorrhizal into your potting mix, you will want to plant or seed into it as soon as possible. Over time some of these dormant beneficials will begin to lose viability. This generally begins after one year or more. So it is important to be aware of product shelf life.
How often you apply Mycorrhizae is important in order to get the best plant establishment, and lessen transplant shock.
Additional treatments of Mycorrhizae can be made every 10-14 days through final transplant. Always apply Mycorrhizal any time you are re-potting or transplanting. This gives the Mycorrhizal Fungi time to colonize your plants root mass and ensure a successful grow.
Established Plants
Granular Mycorrhizae and Biostimulants are also beneficial to apply to established plants. Cultivate and blend into soil and make sure to water in well. This will ensure the Mycorrhizae contacts plants roots, allowing for colonization. Amend to the drip line, cover well and/or mulch. Mycorrhizae cannot survive when exposed to sunlight. Applying Plant Biostimulants, including Mycorrhizae to distressed, or struggling plants can help immensely to bring new growth and vigor to plants.
How to Use Soluble Mycorrhizae
Seeds
Biopriming, or seed soaking is a technique where a solution of Mycorrhizal Fungi/Biostimulants are made for seeds to soak in. Simply mix a solution of Mycorrhizal with water, place into some type of container, and allow the seeds to soak. The idea is that the Biostimulants adhere to the seeds and are established at planting. Using a product like EndoBoost Hydro will inoculate your seeds with a diverse variety of beneficials, including Mycorrhizal Fungi. Soak the seeds for 8-12 hours shows the best results.
Transplants/New Plantings
Mix a solution of Mycorrhizae with non-chlorinated water and add as a soil or root drench. Taking care to water in well. The key, once again, is to make direct root contact. Follow application instructions for the proper concentration. Similar to granular products, Mycorrhizae may be added every 10-14 days through plant establishment. Make sure to apply at least 7 days prior to transplanting for best results.
Hydroponic
Mycorrhizae can be added directly to hydroponic systems. You will need to be aware of what filtration systems/mesh sizes are used in specific setups. Many of these solutions, due to their ingredients, do not fully solubilize and need to be decanted, or mixed to an agitated (suspended) state. For example, GreenEden’s EndoBoost Hydro can be added to systems that use a 250 micron (60 mesh) or larger filter. Mixing multiple batches in concentrate can also be used effectively. That way you can be sure that the solution is blended properly. And allows the many powerful Biostimulants to be fully incorporated to the solution to ensure the results you require.
Established Plantings
There are many ways that Mycorrhizae and Plant Biostimulants can be effective when added to established, newly planted, or distressed trees or plantings.
Soil Drench
A soil/root drench is effective on porous soils, when watered in well to ensure complete root contact. Simply pour the mixture around your plant out to the drip line. For potted plants, it may not be necessary to water in after application. Take care to observe your conditions and use products accordingly. This technique can be especially effective for greenhouse or potted plants.
Injection
Soil injection can be used on compacted soils in order to ensure penetration to the root zone. This can be as simple as using a stake or rod to get down to the root mass, usually 6-8 inches deep is all you need. Use a grid pattern out to the plants drip line for an even distribution. Then pour the solution into the hole(s). There are also commercial grade root injectors available. However, these can get quite expensive. Soil injection at this scale are used primarily by professional arborists or landscapers. 
Foliar
It is important to note that Mycorrhizae is not effective as a foliar spray. Mycorrhizal Fungi colonizes plant roots. On the other hand, Plant Biostimulants such as Humic Acid, Sea Kelp, L-Amino Acids, and others have massive benefits when used as a foliar spray. Plant leaves and stems can easily take up nutrients and beneficials directly. Check out our Biostimulant 101 pages for more knowledge on how this works.
Best Practices When Using Mycorrhizal Fungi
- Direct root contact
- Keep out of direct sunlight; In a cool, dark place
- Use non-chlorinated water
- Follow product instructions for awesome results
Mycorrhizae and Beneficial Bacteria: Working Together for Your Plants Success
GreenEden’s Biostimulants take advantage of the natural relationship that occurs in healthy and productive soil ecosystems. Beneficial Bacteria and Mycorrhizae form an essential component of living soils. They work in combination to build soils and give plants the conditions they need to give you professional results; without synthetic chemicals or pesticides.
Simplify the Science
The takeaway when you are using Mycorrhizal Fungi in your grow is this: Keep it simple, get to the roots, let nature do the work, and…
Boost your grow the natural way!
Note: Make sure to always use non-chlorinated water when using any Mycorrhizal or Plant Biostimulants. It is best to use a HIGH QUALITY FILTER to remove the chlorine/chloramine. You can allow your water to sit and vent off (evaporate) the chlorine. This is not nearly as effective, however, as many municipal water sources now use chloramine. Chloramine is not as volatile as chlorine. Which means it will not evaporate as quickly or completely as chlorine. RO water is a great option. Know your water…