Arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculation of micropropagated persimmon plantlets

Growth, development and nutrient status of micropropagated persimmon (Diospyros kaki) 'Rojo Brillante' in response to inoculation with two species of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi were studied under nursery conditions. The species of AM fungi were Glomus intraradices and G. mosseae. Shoot growth depression and low root colonization percentage were.. observed to G. mosseae inoculation. Shoot and root growth enhancements were observed for plants colonised by G. intraradices. Inoculated plantlets with G. intraradices and high level of controlled-release fertilizer significantly decreased shoot height in relation to treatment with low fertilization level. Furthermore, G. intraradices had unique effects on the mineral status of the persimmon plantlets. N and Ca were significantly increased and decreased; respectively, within the shoot tissue of plants colonised by G. intraradices. Early inoculation with G. intraradices appears to favour growth of micropropagated persimmon plantlets.