Trees and woody plants have evolved over millions of years in partnership with beneficial soil fungi called mycorrhizal fungi. These fungi form a symbiotic relationship with tree roots, expanding their ability to absorb water and nutrients. This relationship is essential for tree health, stress tolerance, and long-term vitality, especially in urban environments where soil conditions are often poor or depleted.

What Are Mycorrhizae?

Mycorrhizae are beneficial fungi that attach to plant roots and extend microscopic filaments (hyphae) into the soil, dramatically increasing the tree’s ability to access water and nutrients.

Key benefits include:

• Increased nutrient absorption (especially phosphorus, nitrogen, and micronutrients)
• Improved water uptake
• Enhanced drought resistance
• Better soil structure
• Increased disease tolerance

In return, trees supply the fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.

Types of Mycorrhizae: Key Differences

Endomycorrhizae (Arbuscular Mycorrhizae)

• Penetrate root cells and form internal structures called arbuscules
• Found in 80–90% of plants, including many deciduous trees such as maples and fruit trees
• Highly efficient at nutrient exchange, especially phosphorus

Ectomycorrhizae

• Form a protective sheath around root tips
• Common in conifers (pines, spruces) and some hardwoods (oaks, beeches)
• Perform well in nutrient-poor soils and provide added root protection

Both types improve root efficiency but are suited to different tree species and soil conditions.

Why Urban Trees Lose Mycorrhizal Support

Urban environments often disrupt natural fungal networks, leading to weaker tree performance.

Common causes include:

• Fungicide use (can harm beneficial fungi along with harmful ones)
• Soil compaction (limits oxygen and fungal growth)
• Drought conditions (reduces fungal survival)
• Excessive high-nitrogen fertilizers (reduces reliance on fungi)
• Soil disturbance (construction and landscaping damage fungal networks)

As a result, many urban trees lack the natural support system they depend on.

Why Mycorrhizal Treatments Are Effective

Mycorrhizal treatments reintroduce beneficial fungi into the soil, helping restore natural root function.

Benefits of treatments:

• Improved nutrient and water uptake
• Stronger, more extensive root systems
• Increased drought tolerance
• Better performance in compacted or poor soils
• Enhanced overall tree resilience

TreeHelp Mycorrhizal Solutions

TreeHelp offers targeted products designed to restore and support tree health in urban conditions:

• TreeHelp Mycorrhizal Treatment
  • Concentrated formula with live beneficial fungi
  • Promotes rapid root colonization
  • Suitable for both new and established trees
• TreeHelp Mycorrhizal Treatments for Specific Tree Types
  • Formulated for different species (conifers vs. deciduous trees)
  • Ensures optimal compatibility and effectiveness
• TreeHelp Annual Care Kit
  • Combines mycorrhizae with nutrients and biostimulants
  • Supports year-round root development and tree health

A Smarter, Science-Based Approach to Tree Care

Mycorrhizal treatments are grounded in proven science, not trends. Trees naturally rely on fungal partnerships to thrive.

In urban settings where these natural systems are disrupted, reintroducing mycorrhizae is one of the most effective ways to:

• Strengthen tree health
• Improve resilience to stress
• Extend tree lifespan
• Support healthier landscapes

By incorporating mycorrhizal treatments into your tree care routine, you help trees grow stronger and live longer, even in challenging environments.