The Effects of Simazine, Applied for Weed Control, on the Mycorrhizal Development of Pinus Seedlings

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Abstract
The herbicide Simazine is widely used in forestry nurseries. Its effect on the incidence of ectomycorrhizae on pine seedling root systems was investigated. Under field (nursery) conditions, at routine rates of application, Simazine does not inhibit mycorrhizal development in Pinus sylvestris and P. nigra, and it may, under some conditions, actually enhance mycorrhizal formation. Such a stimulatory effect was also obtained with pot-grown seedlings treated with the herbicide. It is suggested that soil type and climatic factors might be involved in determining the response to Simazine. The mode of stimulation of mycorrhizal development by this herbicide is not understood, but it is not via suppression of weed growth.