Introduction of Mycorrhizal Fungi into Soil by Spore Inoculation of Seed

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Abstract
Inoculation of seed of radiata pine (P. radiata D.Don) with spores of Rhizopogon luteolus was effective in producing mycorrhizas in glasshouse and field experiments. Greater mycorrhizal formation occurred in fumigated than unfumigated soil. Soil fumigation increased the height of 7 months' old radiata pine by 74 per cent and inoculation further enhanced this by 48 per cent. Inoculation increased growth by 36 per cent in unfumigated soil. Colonisation of soil by rhizomorphs of R. luteolus was significantly greater in fumigated soil. The effect of soil sterilisation on mycorrhiza formation by the introduced fungus and on the growth of the seedlings is discussed.