Once a mycorrhizal fungi spore germinates, it connects with plant roots and forms specialized exchange structures. It will then grow out in the surrounding soil to create an extensive network of filament-like extensions (reminiscent of a neural network). This network increases the plant’s capacity to absorb nutrients in the environment by 100-1000x. Mycorrhizae will then drive nutrients, such as phosphate, nitrogen, potassium, micro elements and water to the plant in exchange for sugars. Not only does this relationship promote bigger yields, plant health and nutrition, it also increases resistance to stresses. Mycorrhizae have also been shown to activate the beneficial soil microbial activity associated with plant roots (i.e. rhizosphere), increasing soil fertility and structure.
