Effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on quality of strawberry fruit in soilless growing system

Summary

This 2013 study investigated the application of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to strawberries cultivated in soilless systems, a practice potentially relevant to intensive horticulture where soil-based mycorrhizal associations are absent. The research suggests that AMF inoculation may enhance fruit quality in hydroponic or substrate-based strawberry production, though the specific mechanisms and magnitude of benefit would require access to the full text. The findings contribute to understanding how beneficial soil microbiota can be functionally restored in non-soil growing environments.

Regional applicability

Soilless strawberry production is widely practised in the United Kingdom, particularly under protected cultivation. If the study demonstrates robust quality improvements with AMF, the findings could inform UK horticultural practice, though transferability would depend on the specific cultivars, substrate types, and environmental conditions tested and how these align with UK production systems.

Key measures

Strawberry fruit quality metrics (likely including yield, fruit size, soluble solids, acidity, and potentially nutrient content) under AMF inoculation versus control in soilless growing conditions

Outcomes reported

The study examined how inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) affects fruit quality characteristics in strawberries grown using soilless cultivation methods. Measurements likely included yield, fruit size, nutritional composition, and other quality parameters.

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