Backyard Gardener: Microbial activity in soil is beneficial
Mycorrhizal fungus growing on pine roots. The fungus interacts with plant roots in a beneficial relationship where the fungus “expands” the nutrient gathering ability of the plant and receives sugars in return. Extent of fungal mycelium is visible on pine seedling shown in the inset photo. (Robert L. Anderson, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org, and inset from California State University, Chico)