2024, Vol. 7, Issue 12, Part F

The demand for ornamental plants is rising due to urban greening and rural development, while the quality of the soil environment is deteriorating. To address this, sustainable cultivation practices need to be developed for cultivating ornamental plants. One eco-friendly solution is the use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). These fungi establish symbiotic relationships with plant roots, creating a network of mycelium in the rhizosphere that enhances nutrient and water absorption. Numerous studies have shown that AMF improves the quality of ornamental plants by boosting factors such as fruit yield, plant height, biomass, seed quality, and the size and number of flowers, leaves, and roots. Additionally, AMF enhances nutrient uptake and regulates the hormone balance in plants, while also helping plants respond to various stresses like drought, temperature changes, heavy metals, and pests.

Research has explored the potential of combining AMF with water-absorbing gels (hydrogels) for pot-grown ornamental plants experiencing periodic drought stress. Studies suggest that these treatments can promote plant growth and flowering under water-deficient conditions. AMF inoculation has been shown to offer significant benefits to plants, translating into economic advantages for flower growers. Both greenhouse and field-grown ornamental plants that can form mycorrhizal symbiosis are suitable for AMF inoculation. The aim of this study is to review existing AMF applications in ornamental plant cultivation. Currently on the market can be found a variety of mycorrhizal products: gel, powder, granules and pellets with spores as well as fertilizer with low dose of spores. Confirmation of successful AM colonization could be conducted on farm by trained employees using cheap staining methods.