Four Benefits of Trichoderma Fungus in Agriculture
Something went wrong. Please try again later...
Trichoderma is a helpful agricultural fungus you’ll want to get to know. It can become your ally in getting the most out of your crops, especially horticultural ones, because Trichoderma helps increase plant vigor and support yield. Let’s look at how it works, and how one specific strain could be most useful to your crops.
What is the Trichoderma fungus?
Trichoderma is a beneficial fungus and one of the most common microorganisms found in the soil, specifically in the rhizosphere — the area closest to plant roots — where it interacts with them. This fungus is known for its remarkable adaptability and rapid growth, both of which benefit the plant.
Here are some of the ways Trichoderma can help plants:
- Enhances nutrient and water uptake
The soil contains a vast number of microorganisms that adhere to plant roots, creating mutually beneficial relationships. Microorganisms like Trichoderma help plants to take up more nutrients by producing organic substances that support the solubilization of insoluble phosphates, iron and other nutrients. - Supports root system development
The more organic matter available in the rhizosphere, the more microorganisms are present. More microorganisms mean more interactions, organic substances and nutrients for the plant, which leads to greater root development. Trichoderma further supports this process by stimulating the secretion of phytohormones, enzymes and metabolites, which are key to promoting root growth. In turn, these help improve the plant’s ability to access and absorb the nutrients and water in the rhizosphere. - Increases plant resistance to abiotic stress
Through various processes, mechanisms and interactions with the plant, Trichoderma can help plants withstand extreme weather, drought, salinity and poor soil conditions. - Improves soil properties
Trichoderma helps improve the physical and chemical properties of soils by breaking down plant debris into more complex organic substances that form stable aggregates in the soil. Better soil conditions lead to more microbial activity and diversity, resulting in a more balanced and biodiverse rhizosphere.
Trichoderma harzianum in biological solutions
Thanks to research, we now know that Trichoderma can be used to develop solutions that help farmers increase crop yields. But not all strains have the same results.
Corteva Biologicals offers a biostimulant built on the T-78 strain of Trichoderma harzianum, available under the brand name TrichoSym Bio®. The T-78 strain was selected for this product because of its exceptional ability to thrive in varied soil conditions and stimulate plant growth. Farmers using TrichoSym Bio biostimulant have seen improved root development, better nutrient absorption and increased resilience to environmental stress.
Ready to boost your crop performance?
Contact your local agronomist or distributor today to learn how TrichoSym Bio can fit into your growing strategy.
Many factors contribute to crop performance and return on investment. Products are intended to complement sound agronomic practices. Results may vary.