Fungi have an interesting relationship with a lot of things. However, it’s the connection between certain species of fungi and plants like cannabis that is particularly special. By incorporating specific species of fungi with your hydro system, living soil, or germinated cannabis seeds, home growers can reap the many rewards of this unique and symbiotic relationship throughout the entire cannabis grow cycle.

What Are Mycorrhizae?

Aliens and fungi have always gotten along, going way back to the early days of the cosmos. Humanoids can, of course, thank us for bringing certain varieties of fungi here for your enjoyment as well! In terms of specific types of fungi, some also get along very well with my favorite plant—cannabis. We call this mutually beneficial relationship between fungi and plants mycorrhizae.

More specifically, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) are a specific type of Plant Growth-Promoting Microorganisms (PGPMs) that live symbiotically with plant roots of the majority of plant species here on your spinning blue ball called planet Earth. PGPMs and AMF improve plant nutrition and affect the release of biologically active substances such as phytohormones, vitamins, and enzymes.

Four Developmental Features Of AMF

• Arbuscules – AMF feature areas where fungi and plants exchange nutrients. These sites are known as arbuscules and are found as tree-like structures within the cellular structure of the host plant’s roots.
  
• Vesicles – Root tissue and surrounding areas in the soil feature vesicles, which are storage structures that are developed by the AMF within tissue found in the plant’s roots or the immediate soil area. The fungi nourish themselves from nutrients and lipids within these structures.
  
• Hyphae – Hyphae are thin threads of filament that develop down into the soil or hydroponic system. These structures are important for several developmental roles with plants—particularly in how they increase the surface area where roots absorb nutrients. They also provide increased access to nutrients beyond just the root zone.
  
• Spores – Not just found on that loaf of moldy potato bread on top of your refrigerator, fungi spores are what AMF and all fungi use to reproduce. In ideal environments, spores germinate, colonize, and extend their fungal networks, known as mycelium.
  

Best Mycorrhizae For Cannabis Seedlings And Plants

Researchers and growers have honed in on a few specific types of fungi that are most beneficial to cannabis seedlings and many plants in general—Rhizophagus Prolifer and Rhizophagus Aggregatus. Both species of AMF are in the Glomeraceae family and are known to growers far and wide as great fungi to use for mycorrhizae during cannabis cultivation.

These strains have shown excellent results not just in cannabis cultivation but also in crops like legumes, artichokes, and soybeans.

However, the AMF species known as Rhizophagus Irregularis is another standout. According to researchers, it has demonstrated a tremendous ability to benefit cannabis seedlings in particular.

Benefits Of AMF For Cannabis Seedlings

Significant factors like bigger plants with more overall biomass, root length, and nutrient uptake were observed after several trials using AMF. In addition, the accumulation of key cannabis nutrients like phosphorus was noted.

Enhanced Root Growth

Researchers observed a 35% increase in root length in cannabis seedlings treated with AMF. This improved root colonization contributes directly to optimal root development and plant biomass, a must-have for healthy cannabis plants.

Increased Photosynthesis And Hormones

Mycorrhizae not only support underground development but also boost above-ground growth. More biomass, cannabinoids, and proteins were observed—leading to stronger and more vigorous cannabis plants. Even THC and CBD levels increased in cannabis seedlings treated with Rhizophagus Irregularis.

This species also showed a higher colonization rate compared to others, which means better support for cannabis plant health.

More Nutrient Uptake

AMF supports nutrient uptake by helping dissolve minerals and stabilize nitrogen. Rhizophagus Irregularis, in particular, aids the uptake of Magnesium, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus—three essential nutrients for potent cannabis strains and maximum yield.

They are also helpful in drought-prone environments, enhancing water retention and nutrient availability in dry grow climates.

Mycorrhizae Reduce Transplant Shock In Cannabis Seedlings

Rhizophagus Irregularis provides amazing stress resistance to cannabis seedlings, reducing transplant shock and improving plant resilience. Strong roots give plants the ability to cope with stressors while maintaining water and nutrient absorption.

How To Use AMF With Cannabis Seedlings

Watching this symbiotic relationship unfold is amazing whether you’re a soil grower or into hydroponic cannabis setups. Introduce mycorrhizal fungi into the soil or nutrient solution before or during cannabis cultivation for best results.

Look for products like Recharge, Great White, Mycos, Harrell’s, or Trifecta—especially those containing Rhizophagus Irregularis.

For hydroponic cannabis growers, AMF can be added to nutrient solutions (unless already included) to support cannabis seedlings throughout their grow cycle.

Start Your Cannabis Seedlings With Mycorrhizae For Best Results

For soil growers, sowing directly into living soil with AMF at the germination hole can kickstart that beneficial bond right from the beginning. Keep the soil moist and let nature take over.

Some growers like to pre-colonize their soil with AMF weeks in advance, or before flowering, to maximize the availability of nutrients—especially phosphorus, a crucial element for cannabis flowering.

How To Use Mycorrhizae During Cannabis Transplanting

To reduce transplant shock in cannabis, sprinkle powdered mycorrhizae around the root ball and into the transplant hole. This ensures contact with the roots and maximizes the fungi’s benefits.

Take Your Relationship To The Next Level

Humanoid researchers have shown that Rhizophagus Irregularis prepares cannabis seedlings for success. But don’t sleep on Rhizophagus Aggregatus or Rhizophagus Prolifer either—they’re excellent for promoting healthy cannabis growth, higher yields, and stronger resistance to stress.

When you’re starting with cannabis seeds, adding mycorrhizal fungi sets you up for healthier growth, optimized root systems, and ultimately, premium flower production. Whether it’s germination, transplanting, or flowering, let fungi elevate your grow.

Contact Multiverse Beans

Curious about which mycorrhizal fungi strains are best for your setup or need help incorporating AMF into your cannabis grow? The team at Multiverse Beans is here to guide you—from seedling support to flowering finesse. Whether you’re growing in living soil or hydro, we’ll help you pair the right cannabis seeds with proven microbial allies for a thriving, resilient grow. Reach out today and let us help you take your grow to the next level—naturally.

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