VAM Fertilizer: Enhancing Soil Health and Plant Nutrient Absorption

Introduction to VAM Fertilizer

VAM fertilizer refers to a type of fertilizer that harnesses the power of Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi to enhance soil health and improve nutrient absorption in plants. These fungi, particularly effective in facilitating the absorption of phosphorus, play a crucial role in agricultural practices, especially in nutrient-poor conditions.

VAM Fungi and Their Benefits

VAM fungi are known for their ability to colonize plant roots, extending their hyphae into the soil to enhance nutrient and water access. This symbiotic relationship leads to improved plant growth, increased crop yields, and enhanced soil health.

Introducing VAM fungi into the soil as part of organic fertilizers or as standalone inoculants can boost plant health and productivity. One popular example is SUN BIO VAM, a biological fertilizer based on spores and fragments of mycorrhizal fungal filaments and infected root bits, making it an effective soil inoculant.

Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizae (VAM)

These fungi are eco-friendly biofertilizers that have the ability to dissolve phosphates found in the soil. Apart from increasing the availability of phosphorus, VAM fungi also provide plants with necessary strength to resist diseases and unfavorable weather conditions. They are obligate fungi, meaning they require a living host for survival.

Mechanisms and Benefits of VAM Fungi

VAM fungi are among the most common mycorrhizal fungi, predominating in the roots and soil. They enhance plant resistance against pathogens and increase the surface area of the root system, facilitating better nutrient absorption from the soil. As a result, they can be used as both biofertilizers and biocontrol agents.

Specifically, VAM fungi help in the uptake of nutrients that are diffusion-limited or insoluble, such as phosphorus, iron, and zinc. Moreover, they can mitigate moisture stress to some extent by increasing the foraging area of plant roots, thereby helping plants access water more efficiently.

Conclusion

VAM fertilizer is an innovative and eco-friendly solution for agricultural practices. By harnessing the power of VAM fungi, growers can enhance soil health, boost plant growth, and increase crop yields in nutrient-poor conditions. As awareness about sustainable agricultural practices grows, VAM fertilizers are becoming an increasingly popular choice for farmers.