In other words, a tree that disappeared from your yard years ago may still be influencing what happens beneath your grass today.
- Your Soil Is Home to an Active Fungal Community
Soil isn’t just dirt.
It contains
an enormous community of microorganisms, including bacteria and
fungi, along with plant roots, insects, worms, and other organisms.
Fungi are particularly important because they help break down complex organic materials.
Some fungi form extensive networks of thread-like structures called hyphae, which collectively form a structure known as mycelium.
Much of a fungus can exist in this hidden form without producing mushrooms.
When conditions become favorable, however, the familiar mushroom caps may appear.
- Some Fungi Help Plants Access Nutrients
Not all fungi simply feed on dead material.
Some fungi form relationships with living plants, particularly through associations with plant roots.
