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Lexington, Ky

One of my boys wants to conduct a mycorrhizae science fair project using field pumpkin seeds in sterile potting mix. The control would be sterile potting mix/seed with no mycorrhizae. His planting containers would be clear 16 oz plastic cups. He will use a lamp with a 35 watt bulb placed in an oven for controlled heat (75 degrees F). We'll have 30 days to conduct the experiment.

First question is....will we be able to see or prove colonization (microscope and/or lab testing) in that short amount of time?

Do different forms or brands of mycorrhizae work faster?

Should he use giant pumpkin or some other type seed?

Any thoughts on different variables that he can use?

Answers/advice extremely appreciated.

10/20/2014 11:45:54 AM

Lexington, Ky

I left out an important question...he will prepare his samples separately to avoid cross contamination however, is spore cross contamination a possibility once the samples are placed together in the oven? He will water in all samples equally, will that be enough to avoid this potential problem?

10/20/2014 11:54:20 AM

Seattle, WA

Send an email to Tim Wilson at thegoodjob@hotmail.com. He should be able to help you out.

10/20/2014 1:36:25 PM

Eugene,OR

My son did the same test for a science project last year. He grew his seedlings for 10 days and you could not tell any difference. We spoke with Neil at RTI & he said 10 days was not long enough to colonize the roots.

10/20/2014 11:33:15 PM

Netherlands

I'm not sure how old or interested your son is, but it would be interesting to see what myco does in different soils.

I'd use field pumpkin or even bean seeds. Something that germinates fast and easy.

10/21/2014 3:15:24 AM

Lexington, Ky

Thanks Tad.

Vineman, what growing media did your son use?

DB...good point, makes me wonder if mycorrhizae can do it's magic in sterile potting mix....might actually have to use soil....

Thank you all.

10/21/2014 11:09:34 AM