Microbiological systems for phosphate extraction and distribution to

Abstract

A package and method of its production, providing a means for transferring soluble phosphorus from a source supply to plant root systems without loss of phosphorus to surrounding soil structure by use of microorganisms. A source of soluble phosphorus is supported along with a plant seed and dormant, plant-beneficial microorganisms within the cell matrix of a cellulosic support device which may be formed into a configuration such as a capsule or ribbon. The cellulosic support device may also contain nutrients for encouraging plant growth upon germination of the plant seed. The fungal inoculum is obtained by propagation of the microorganism in symbiotic association with the root systems of host plants either hydroponically, or in soil, depending upon the microorganism species used. Spores, cryoprotected hyphae and the seed of a vector plant are combined at low temperature with a cellulosic material which is used to form the packages. The formed packages are rapidly freeze-dried, and stored. The carrier system is inoculated into soil and, under proper environmental conditions, the plant seed germinates and the microorganisms become active and develop a symbiotic relationship with the growing plant. Growth of the fungus in association with the roots of the vector plant distributes the microorganisms within the soil and serves to introduce them to other plants, allowing the microorganisms to recover phosphorus and other constituents from the soil and to deliver them to their host plant by a process of translocation. The growing plant provides a vehicle for inoculating other nearby plant roots with the microorganisms.