In Part 2 we talked about how we measure bacteria and what some of their useful effects may be. Let’s now have a look at a more complex organism that many growers are on the quest to elevate the numbers of…..
Fungi has a key role in retaining and transporting nutrients around the soil and has an intrinsic relationship to the pH. It is also an excellent creator of soil structure – proliferating when the conditions are favourable, with long strands of hyphae being visible a bit like plant roots. However, it can also be incredibly fragile and is very easy to damage when performing certain tasks such as ploughing or treating for certain diseases.
To measure the level of fungi in a sample, we start by measuring the length and width of the hyphae. This is expressed as biomass (see Part 2 description of dry weight) and therefore it becomes possible to compare the fungi and bacteria levels. When determining values there are three primary characteristics that we are concerned with: 1) total population 2) activity level (as with bacteria) and, 3) the average diameter – providing an indication of the maturity of the ecosystem. Monitoring as these develop over time with an appropriate system is an excellent way to make sure that you capture the full benefit from the actions of fungi. If you’re stuck for ideas ask MBS about their Soil Surveillance System and if you need reminding why it is a good idea to measure soil life, look back here at our previous article.
When we start to put the laboratory measurements for this organism in to context, the plant history is the first area that we need to understand, especially when considering the particular steps that can be taken to enhance and improve a growing environment. Be wary though – if not thought through, a disjointed crop and biological programme can create much more work for a grower looking at new techniques to save on input costs. So be diligent and speak to experts like SoilBioLab to learn more about this, as when optimising soil organisms as part of a larger management programme, meticulous planning and good record keeping become increasingly important in realising the full potential.
Fungi are great at enhancing soil quality by decomposing the more difficult to digest carbon compounds such as wood chips as well as other complex materials and certain pollutants. The natural action of these microscopic cells make them ideal at holding on to nutrients, preventing leaching, whilst at the same time binding soil particles in to aggregates. Anything you can do to promote their development in a balanced manner, such as with a compost tea or microbial stimulant is going to make your life much easier.
Simon runs Mind, Body & Soil and is Cofounder of SoilBioLab. He specialises in services and solutions for soil fertility management. You can follow him on twitter @peat_free or email him at simon@mindbodysoil.co.uk