Encourage Root Growth with Bio-Tone

We all know that proper planting techniques and root establishment are two very important keys in creating a healthy and drought tolerant garden. Proper planting techniques is a topic that we have covered in previous newsletter articles. Root establishment is primarily left up to the plant itself, but there are a couple things that we can do ourselves to encourage root growth. One is breaking up the root system of plants at the time of planting. Disturbing the root system of a plant grown in a pot will influence new root growth when the plant is in the ground. The other thing we can do to encourage new root growth is applying Bio-tone to our plants at the time of planting.

Bio-tone is a “starter” type of product that is applied to the root system at the time of planting in a liquid or granular form. Its ingredients make it different from other products. Bio-tone is not a true fertilizer. In fact, too much nutrition from fertilizers at the time of planting can hinder root growth by influencing new foliar growth. Remember, when we plant new trees, shrubs, or perennials, we are looking to establish a healthy root system for the longevity of the plant, not force a ton of new leaves or stem growth. Bio-tone contains a small percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It also contains mycorrhizae (plural form of mycorrhiza) and beneficial bacteria. What exactly is mycorrhiza? It is a beneficial fungus that can attach into, or near the roots of plants. The mycorrhizae and plant form a symbiotic relationship that is beneficial to plant, and the fungus itself. This is kind of similar to the relationship between clown fish (Nemo) and sea anemones. The fungus benefits from the food produced by the plants through photosynthesis, and the plants benefit because of the ability of the fungus to efficiently obtain nutrients and micronutrients from the surrounding soil.

What does all of this mean for the garden? It means healthier roots, soil, and ultimately healthier plants. Who could go wrong with that? At Fairview, we sell a 4 lb. granular form for $9.99 and a 25 lb. granular form for $44.99. Bio-tone is an excellent product that we recommend for all new shrubs, trees, perennials, and annuals. Give it a shot, you will be happy with the results!


Happy Planting!
Brad Rollins
Fairview Greenhouses & Garden Center