ARS | Publication request: On-farm AM fungus inoculum production: a complete how-to on-farm am fungus inoculum production

Submitted to: Review Article
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: January 15, 2011
Publication Date: February 17, 2011
Citation: Lohman, M., Ziegler, C., Douds, D.D. 2011. On-farm AM fungus inoculum production: a complete how-to on-farm am fungus inoculum production. Review Article. Available: http://www.rodaleinstitute.org/20101206.

Technical Abstract: Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are beneficial soil fungi that form a symbiosis with the majority of crop plants. The benefits to the plant include increased nutrient uptake and disease and drought resistance. This makes utilization of the symbiosis a potentially important part in ensuring the sustainability of US agriculture. For the last 8 years, The Rodale Institute has partnered with the USDA-ARS to pioneer an On-Farm AM Fungus Inoculum Production System; a system which would make the economic and environmental benefits of mycorrhizae available to more farmers. Over the years, research has focused on developing a low-cost procedure and identifying features to maximize inoculum production. Here we summarize what we've learned from those years and share everything you need to know to start your own on-farm system.