Nursery Papers – Management of contaminant fungi in growing media

Fungi are highly diverse organisms that readily colonise both growing media and soil.

Some fungi, like mycorrhizae and Trichoderma, are beneficial to plant growth, aiding in nutrient uptake. Others, however, are plant pathogens that can damage ant tissues, while a third group, saprophytes, thrive by feeding on dead and decaying organic matter.

At low levels, saprophytic fungi may have minor benefits for plants by filling growing media with mycelium, which can help reduce colonisation by plant pathogens. They may also aid in the decomposition of organic matter and enhance nutrient uptake.

These benefits, however, are only observed when the fungi are present at relatively low levels. When their populations become excessive, they are considered contaminants that can inhibit plant growth by altering growing media properties. Once established, they can spread rapidly throughout nursery growing areas and are often challenging to eradicate.

This Nursery Paper will discuss how contaminant fungi enter the nursery environment, how to recognise them, and how they affect the properties of growing edia. It will also provide guidelines on preventative measures to minimise the risk of contamination, as well as remedial actions to address infestations when they occur.

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