Independent trials have shown that mycorrhizae-treated plants can take up more nutrients and keep their growth rolling through stress — when you inoculate at the right moment. The trick is simple: time it for the plant’s natural “handshake” phase, when roots are ready to partner with fungi. Miss that window and most of the benefits are left on the table. In this guide you’ll learn exactly when to inoculate seedlings and established plants, the easiest ways to apply, and a few pro tips to lock the partnership in.
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The Two Critical Windows (Do This, Get Results)
🌱 Seedlings — one week after germination
When: As the first true leaves appear (cotyledons are the “training wheels”).
Why now: Young roots are exploring and most receptive to colonisation.
How: Dust or dip the plug/root zone with mycorrhizae and water in (methods below).
🌱 Established plants — during transplanting
When: As you move up a pot or into beds.
Why now: Roots are vulnerable; a fresh colony cushions shock and accelerates establishment.
How: Sprinkle granules in the hole, dust bare roots, or use a quick slurry dip.
Remember: Miss the seedling or transplant window and you’ll likely miss most of the payoff. Set a reminder in your calendar.
What Mycorrhizae Actually Do (Plain English)
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Extend root reach with a web of hyphae — like giving roots a natural exo-skeleton for water and nutrients.
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Scavenge hard-to-grab minerals (especially phosphorus and micros) and help stabilise uptake during heat, cold or dry spells.
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Soil health bonus: Hyphae help with structure and microbe habitat, supporting long-term resilience.
How to Apply (Pick Your Method)
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Tap a small pinch of powder around the root ball or plug.
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Seat the plant, backfill, and water thoroughly.
2) Dust Or Slurry dip (maximum contact)
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Mix a spoon of inoculant with clean water to a thin paste.
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Dip bare roots or plugs before planting; plant immediately.
3) Planting-hole granules (beds & big pots)
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Scatter granules into the hole, set the plant so roots touch the product, backfill, water in.
4) Water-in (for existing containers)
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Use a water-soluble inoculant and drench the root zone.
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Repeat lightly at the next transplant or after heavy root pruning.
Pro Tips for a Strong Partnership
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Water in well after application to help fungi contact roots.
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Go easy on early phosphorus — heavy P feeds can blunt colonisation in the first fortnight.
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Skip harsh drenches (e.g., peroxide) right before or after inoculation.
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If you’ve recently used a systemic fungicide, allow a buffer period before inoculating (check your product guidance).
Timing Cheatsheet (Bookmark This)
| Situation | Best moment to inoculate | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Seed trays / modules | ~Day 7–10, first true leaves | Dust plug or dip slurry |
| Pot-up (indoors) | At transplant | Dust root ball / granules in hole |
| Into beds/veggie patch | At planting | Granules in hole + water-in |
| Perennials/fruit trees | At planting or root pruning | Slurry dip + hole granules |
| Lawn repair/oversow | When seed contacts soil | Blend granules with seed/topdress |
Troubleshooting (If You Don’t See a Lift)
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No change after two weeks? Check you hit the window and that roots actually contacted the inoculant.
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Plants still sluggish? Review watering and Phosphorus levels; heavy early Phosphorus can mask benefits.
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Transplant shock? Next time, dip roots in a slurry and plant straight away.
Learn how to keep your Mycorrhizae thriving and the importance oh pH with your living soil
Recommended Mycorrhizae (Curated)
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Endo mycorrhizae for annuals/veg — ideal for most edibles & ornamentals.
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Endo/Ecto blend for trees & shrubs — broader species coverage for woody plants.
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Water-soluble inoculant — easy drench for existing pots.
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Root dip/gel kit — best contact at transplant time.
FAQs
Can I inoculate seeds?
You’ll get more reliable results at the seedling and transplant stages, when roots are present and receptive.
How often do I reapply?
Hit the transplant window and you’re covered. For long seasons or heavy root pruning, a light re-application at the next transplant is smart.
Is it safe for indoor plants?
Absolutely. Keep it tidy (dust or slurry), water in, and avoid harsh sterilants around application time.
Do I still fertilise?
Yes — mycorrhizae are partners, not substitutes. Feed sensibly and avoid heavy early phosphorus.
Give your roots the right partner at the right time : Shop Mycorrhizae Now
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