One factor that can reduce fungi in soil is the application of soluble phosphate. When soluble phosphate is applied to the soil, plants can directly absorb the phosphorus they need from the soil solution, eliminating the need for them to rely on mycorrhizal fungi for phosphate uptake. As a result, the plants no longer form a symbiotic relationship with the fungi, leading to a decline in the population of mycorrhizal fungi in the soil.
Ploughing or tilling the soil is another factor that can reduce fungi in the soil. When the soil is ploughed, it breaks up the hyphae of the mycorrhizal fungi, disrupting their network and reducing their ability to colonize plant roots. This disturbance can have a negative impact on the population and diversity of mycorrhizal fungi in the soil.
In my own gardening experiences, I have observed the effects of both soluble phosphate application and ploughing on mycorrhizal fungi. When I used to regularly apply soluble phosphate fertilizers to my vegetable garden, I noticed a decline in the presence of mycorrhizal fungi. The plants seemed to grow well initially, but over time, I noticed a decrease in overall plant health and vigor. This made me realize the importance of maintaining a healthy population of mycorrhizal fungi in the soil.
Similarly, when I decided to experiment with no-till gardening, I observed a significant increase in mycorrhizal fungi in the soil. By avoiding ploughing or tilling, the hyphae of the fungi remained intact, allowing them to continue forming beneficial relationships with plant roots. This led to healthier and more resilient plants in my garden, as the mycorrhizal fungi enhanced nutrient uptake and provided other benefits such as disease resistance.
It’s important to note that while soluble phosphate and ploughing can reduce mycorrhizal fungi, they are not the only factors that can affect the fungal population in the soil. Other practices such as excessive use of chemical fertilizers, the use of fungicides, and soil compaction can also have detrimental effects on mycorrhizal fungi.
To summarize, the application of soluble phosphate and ploughing are two common practices that can reduce mycorrhizal fungi in the soil. Soluble phosphate eliminates the need for plants to rely on the fungi for phosphate uptake, while ploughing disrupts the fungi’s hyphal network. However, it’s important to consider the overall health and diversity of the soil ecosystem when making decisions about fertilizer use and soil management practices.
