V.A.M

Biotech solutions to Organic Agriculture
Vesicular Arbuscular Micorrhizae { V.A.M }

Introduction: The symbiotic association between plant roots and fungal mycelia is termed as mycorrhizae. It acts as extension of root absorbing surface. The P ions are readily absorbed by the plants on clay soil complexes and diffuse slowly in the soil so that a depletion zone quickly develops around the actively absorbing rootlets.

By applying VAM, the external mycelium extends several centimeters from the root surface and it then passes the depletion zone surrounding the root and exploits soil microhabitats beyond the nutrient depleted area where the small rootlets or root hairs cannot thrive. The Phosphate is translocated into the mycelium in the root and is released for use by plants.

Dosage : VAM should be applied 2 – 3 cm below the soil at the time sowing. Before application crack the topsoil and maintain organic matter and moisture content. For existing Horticulture crops 20gm - 200 grams inoculation is required depending on the plant size.

For better results apply VAM along with Azosphyrillum and PSB (Phosphobacterium).
Benefits:

i. VAM plays a significant role in nutrient cycling in ecosystem and has the ability to absorb nutrients from the soil, particularly Phosphorus, Sulphur, Calcium and Zinc and they are translocated into the mycelium in the root and is released for use by plants.

ii. VAM are known to enhance resistance to diseases and help the host plant to take up water better under moisture stress conditions.

iii. Inoculation of VAM in combination with Azosphyrillum results in the later influences VAM infection on the plant roots resulting in increase in the shoot and root length, number of leaves and the growth of plants.

IV. Inoculation of VAM in combination with PSB (Phosphorus Solubilising Bacteria) or Phosphobacterium results in the later renders more phosphorus soluble, while VAM enhances its uptake.