Dr. James White of Rutgers University joins the EarthWorks Podcast to discuss the fascinating world of rhizophagy, a process in which plants actively farm, consume, and extract nutrients from soil bacteria and fungi. His groundbreaking research has helped identify and explain this remarkable relationship between plants and soil microbes, changing the way we think about plant nutrition and Biological Soil Management.
Throughout the conversation, Dr. White walks through the entire rhizophagy cycle, explaining how plants bring microbes into their root cells, extract nutrients, and then release them back into the soil to continue the cycle. This process not only feeds the plant but also stimulates the formation of root hairs, allowing roots to explore more soil for water and nutrients.
The discussion also explores the surprising role that some disease-causing organisms can play within a healthy biological system and why maintaining an active, diverse soil microbiome is essential for long-term plant health.
Whether you manage golf course turf, sports fields, landscapes, or any other plants, this episode provides remarkable insight into one of the most important discoveries in modern plant science. It offers a deeper understanding of why soil biology matters and why Biological Soil Management continues to transform the way we grow healthier, more resilient plants.
