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have conducted extensive studies on fungi.
They have achieved astonishing results by infesting the soil in tree nurseries with a friendly fungus called “Pisolithus tinctorius.” In some instances, the speed of growth of pine seedlings has more than doubled over normal plantings.
The fungus also protects seedlings’ roots against disease and environmental extremes like drought, abnormal temperatures, and bad soil conditions.
“These consistently positive results have generated considerable interest,” says Dr. Donald H. Marx, who pioneered work in the Mycorrhizal Institute. “Many foresters have come to realize that mycorrhizal manipulation can be an important tool in silviculture.”
Abbott Laboratories, a pharmaceutical company, is already researching ways to produce P. tinctorius so it can be easily incorporated into the soil for tree seedling production.
Before this product is commercialized, however, the Mycorrhizal Institute will launch a pilot test program in a number of tree nurseries throughout the United States to ensure that the commercial fungus works as well as the one produced in the Institute’s laboratory.
The commercial production and application of a single helpful fungus is just a first step. The Institute will continue to identify other promising fungus species that might increase tree production.
P. tinctorius may be in commercial use in the next two or three years, aiding nursery production and helping to guarantee survival of seedlings in the field. The fungus and others like it show great promise for the reclamation of strip-mined lands, reduced dependence on fertilizers, and healthier forests in general.
(Editor’s note—Rappahannock Forester Lyt Wood reports that the Virginia Division of Forestry is researching the possibility of innoculating seedlings to be planted on private lands and strip mined sites with the fungus.)
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