Vesicular-Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM) as Biofertilizer for Horticultural Plants in Developing Countries & The Role of VAM Fungi in Agriculture

Stanislav M.
Oct 30
2 min read

By Msturmel - MS Turmel, University of Manitoba, Plant Science Department, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7553044

Introduction

In developing countries, horticultural crops often suffer from poor soil fertility, limited access to chemical fertilizers, and environmental degradation. Vesicular arbuscular mycorrhiza (VAM) offers a sustainable source of phosphorus in plants and other essential nutrients through a natural symbiosis that reduces costs and enhances productivity. This blog explores VAM as a biofertilizer, examines criteria for selecting effective fungal inoculants, and highlights the broader role of mycorrhizal fungi in agriculture.

1. VAM as a Biofertilizer in Horticulture

Horticultural plants—vegetables, fruits, ornamentals—require high phosphorus levels for flowering, fruit set, and root vigor. VAM biofertilizers harness organic mycorrhizae to deliver P efficiently, particularly in P-fixing soils common in tropical and subtropical regions. Field studies in tomato, pepper, and eggplant show 20–40% yield increases and 30–50% reduction in phosphate fertilizer use when inoculated with VAM strains.

1.1 Mechanisms of Growth Promotion

Arbuscule Formation: Sites of intense P transfer from hyphae to root cortical cells.
Improved Root Morphology: Increased lateral roots and root hair density for nutrient absorption.
Stress Alleviation: Enhanced drought and salinity tolerance through improved water uptake and osmolyte regulation.

2. Selection of VAM Fungi for Inoculation

Not all VAM strains perform equally. Selection criteria include:

Host Specificity: Compatibility with local horticultural species.
Soil Adaptation: Tolerance to pH extremes, temperature, and salinity.
Colonization Efficiency: Rapid root infection and extensive hyphal network development.
Nutrient Mobilization: Ability to solubilize and translocate sparingly soluble phosphates.

2.1 Commercial Mycorrhiza Products

A range of mycorrhiza products is available, containing single or mixed VAM species. Mixed inoculants often enhance colonization across diverse hosts but require proper storage to maintain spore viability.

3. The Role of VAM in Sustainable Agriculture

3.1 Nutrient Cycling and Soil Health

VAM fungi drive long-term soil fertility by cycling phosphorus and micronutrients. The exudation of glomalin by VAM hyphae cements soil aggregates, increasing porosity and water infiltration.

3.2 Reducing Chemical Inputs

Incorporating VAM biofertilizers into integrated nutrient management lowers reliance on synthetic P fertilizers, mitigating runoff and eutrophication risks.

3.3 Enhancing Crop Quality

VAM-colonized plants often exhibit higher antioxidant levels, improved fruit quality, and better shelf life, adding value in both domestic and export markets.

4. Implementing VAM Technology in Developing Regions

Local Production: Establishing small-scale VAM inoculum units using native strains adapted to regional soils.
Farmer Training: Workshops on inoculation techniques, seed coating, and soil management to maximize VAM benefits.
Policy Support: Incentives for adopting biofertilizers and integrating VAM into national agricultural programs.

Conclusion

Vesicular arbuscular mycorrhiza represents a cornerstone of sustainable horticultural practices and modern agriculture. As a natural source of phosphorus in plants, VAM biofertilizer improves crop productivity, soil health, and environmental resilience—especially in developing countries. Selecting the right VAM inoculant and adopting proper application methods can unlock the full potential of this remarkable symbiosis.

For comprehensive details on our VAM products and application guidelines, visit our Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza page.