Mycorrhizal fungi

Tomatoes primarily form arbuscular mycorrhizae with certain fungi. Mycelial hyphae can increase the range of water and nutrient uptake—especially phosphorus—and improve the plants’ tolerance to certain stresses. However, the extent of these benefits depends on the fungal species, the growing medium, fertilization, and the presence of native microbiota. High phosphorus availability may limit root colonization, which is why the application of an inoculum does not always provide an additional benefit.