Effect of fertilization on seedling growth, ectomycorrhizal symbiosis, and nutrient uptake in Larixlaricina

Abstract

Container-grown Larixlaricina (Du Roi) K. Koch seedlings were inoculated with the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccarialaccata (Scop, ex Fr.) Berk and Br. and grown under two levels of slow-release fertilizer (Osmocote) or two levels of soluble fertilizer (N–P–K). Nonmycorrhizal seedlings grew better under high fertility regimes, whereas no significant differences were observed between low and high fertility levels for the mycorrhizal seedlings. Mycorrhizal seedlings had significantly greater root length, total biomass, and a lower shoot:root ratio under all fertility treatments. Ectomycorrhizal development was excellent regardless of fertilizer treatment. Nitrogen, P, K, Ca, and Mg concentrations were significantly higher in the mycorrhizal seedlings than in the nonmycorrhizal seedlings under all fertility regimes.