Mycorrhizae: A Natural Secret for Healthy Indoor Plants

At Studio Plantes , we know that having thriving indoor plants is a real satisfaction for greenery lovers. In addition to water, light and fertilization, an often overlooked factor can greatly improve the health of your plants: mycorrhizae . These microscopic fungi, very present in natural soils, can also be integrated into the substrate of your indoor plants to promote their growth. In this short article, we will discover what mycorrhizae are, their benefits for indoor plants and how to use them to get the most out of your indoor jungle.

What are mycorrhizae?

Mycorrhizae refer to a natural symbiosis between fungi and plant roots. In nature, these fungi live in association with plant roots, forming a dense network around them. This mycorrhizal network acts as an extension of the roots, increasing their ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. In return, the plant provides the fungi with the sugars and amino acids they need to survive.

This relationship is mutually beneficial: the fungi help the plant to feed itself and defend itself against certain pathogens, while the plant supports their development by providing them with nutrients.

The benefits of mycorrhizae for indoor plants

Even though houseplants are growing in a controlled environment, they can benefit from mycorrhizae for several reasons:

1. Improved nutrient uptake : Mycorrhizae increase the surface area of ​​the roots in contact with the substrate, which improves the uptake of essential nutrients such as phosphorus, zinc and copper. This is particularly useful in pots, where nutrients can be quickly depleted.

2. Increased drought resistance : Mycorrhizal fungi enable plants to better retain water, which can be beneficial for plants that are often subject to water stress. n

3. Improved root growth : Mycorrhizae stimulate root growth by making them stronger and promoting their development. Stronger roots contribute to a more vigorous plant, able to better withstand variations in its environment.

4. Growth and vitality : By facilitating access to a greater quantity of nutrients and strengthening the roots, mycorrhizae contribute to better general health of the plant, promoting faster growth.

How to use mycorrhizae for your indoor plants?

Introducing mycorrhizae into your houseplants' substrate is simple. Here are some steps to maximize their effectiveness:

1. Choosing the right mycorrhizal product : You can find mycorrhizae in powder form, granules or in some specific substrate mixes. It is important to choose quality mycorrhizae that are specific to the plants you are growing, as some mycorrhizae are more suited to tropical plants, while others are better suited to succulents, for example.

2. Application at repotting : If you are repotting a plant, this is a great time to add mycorrhizae. Sprinkle the powder around the roots, or mix it into the substrate before planting. The fungi will quickly come into contact with the roots and begin to grow.

3. Application for plants already in pots : If your plants are already in pots, you can add mycorrhizae by diluting them with irrigation water (if the product allows it) or by lightly sprinkling the surface of the soil and watering afterwards.

4. Watering and maintenance : For mycorrhizae to develop properly, make sure the soil remains moderately moist, especially at the beginning, but without excess water. Mycorrhizae need a well-drained substrate to develop optimally.

5. For life : one inoculation is enough, the mycorrhizae, once in symbiosis with the roots, remain for life and will follow your plants during the next repottings

Tips for optimizing the use of mycorrhizae

• Use organic products as much as possible : Chemicals, especially mineral fertilizers, can sometimes harm mycorrhizae. Favor organic fertilizers and natural treatments to promote a sustainable symbiosis.

• Don't over-fertilize : Thanks to mycorrhizae, your plants will make better use of the available nutrients, so excessive fertilizer is not necessary. Limit the use of fertilizer or opt for a lower dosage to avoid any imbalance in the soil.

• Patience and observation : The effects of mycorrhizae are not instantaneous. It often takes a few weeks to observe the first signs of improvement in the plant. Observe your plants and adjust your watering and fertilizer intake if necessary.

Conclusion

Still little known to the general public, mycorrhizae are a natural asset to strengthen the health, growth and resilience of indoor plants. By imitating the natural processes of the soil, you create a more balanced environment for your plants, even indoors. At Studio Plantes , you can find mycorrhizae for purchase in store or for delivery: your plants will thank you with greener leaves, robust roots and, for some, even more beautiful flowers.