Interactions between mycorrhizae and diseases caused by soil‐borne fungi

Abstract

Abstract . There are many records of mycorrhizae, particularly ectomycorrhizae, protecting roots against soil‐borne plant pathogens, though fungal or viral diseases of the green parts are usually more severe in mycorrhizal plants. There are various mechanisms by which mycorrhizae protect themselves against soil‐borne diseases. The occurrence and ecological significance of these mechanisms are discussed in relation to environmental factors. Mycorrhizae will probably become a very effective means of biological control once we have learned how to manage them.