The effect of Biobarrier® on mycorrhizae in oak and sweetgum

Abstract

The effect of Biobarrier® herbicide-impregnated barrier fabric (Reemay, Inc., P.O. Box 511, Old Hickory, TN 37138-3651) on mycorrhizae occurrence was assessed on established pin oak (Quercus palustris) and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) trees. Trenches were dug through 24 tree root systems, and in 12 of the root systems, trenches were lined with Biobarrier. Seventeen months later roots were collected from within and adjacent to the trenches. Microscopic examination revealed that ectomycorrhizae occurred on roots of all 12 oak trees, regardless of the presence or absence of the barrier fabric. Similarly, roots from all sweetgum trees, except for 1 control tree (no barrier fabric), had vesicular endomycorrhizae.