Investigators are studying the effects of chitosan powder with mycorrhiza. It shows the good effects on mycorrhizal and root systems of related plants can lead a healthier crop growth and fruiting. Plants can produce enzyme-resistant enzymes(chitinase) which is particularly effective against the phytopathogenic fungi cell wall, however, it can't against the cell wall of mycorrhiza.
No harmful increase was observed in soil mycorrhiza and chitinase after chitosan treatment. Increased lignification of plant cell walls after chitosan treatment can protect the root canal layer and ectoderm of mycorrhizal fungi, as they both contact the lateral roots of the plant near the root crown, while the rhizomes have been completed and formed root hairs.
As for the root, the mycorrhiza can bind unhindered with the root layer of the crops because the ectoderm has not been lignified.
Two patents are created, a solution on adding water soluble chitosan into fertilizer to enhance the plant and promote mycorrhiza.
The aim of chitosan fertilizer is to improve the soil living conditions against soil-borne pathogens. Mycorrhiza could live better under the good conditions created by chitosan. The study shows that chitinases could not affect the growth of mycorrhizal fungi.
Compared with the traditional fungicide, chitosan can not only help crops defend the late blight, but also promote the growth of the mycorrhiza at the same time. Moreover, studies also show that chitosan can increase the yield of crops.