Use of Mycorrhizae in Reforestation - On degraded lands, that suffer with drought, poor nutrient supply and other abiotic stresses, there is usually only a brief period which is favourable for growth.

If tree seedlings do not get established during the window period, they are unlikely to survive.

Mycorrhizae can improve seedling survival and growth by enhancing uptake of nutrients (particularly phosphorus) and water, by lengthening root life anti by providing protection against pathogens.

Mycorrhizae are symbiotic non pathogenic associations between plant roots and fungi.

Trees in temperate regions form ecto mycorrhizae (eM) and 70% plant species including most of the commercial crops, growing in the tropical region, also always have mycorrhizae.

Ectomycorrhizae are generally crucial for acceptable growth and of particular interest are vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizae (VAM), which are very useful for desired growth of many species including those predominant in tropical forests.

The mycorrhizae formation depends on several factors including environmental factors, host ,physiology, soil, micro flora and,  microfauna and finally on the inoculum, Therefore, these factors can be monitored effectively to enhance the formation of mycorrhizae on plantations made on any degraded land region.

Inoculation of hardwood and conifer seedlings with specific fungi in a nurseries and glasshouse has shown dramatic improvement in growth and survival following transplantation in routine and adverse afforestation sites in Canada.