Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
Fall 11-7-2024
College
Sciences and Mathematics, College of
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Dr. Darlene Panvini
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
As used by Indigenous tribes throughout the Great Plains, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) can be used for herbal remedies, ritualistic ceremonies, and culinary dishes. Studies show arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi improve nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, root growth, and disease resistance in their symbiotic plant relationships. From September to November 2024, 12 lemon balm plants were planted on the green roof at Belmont University. Half of them were treated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi; half of them were a control group. The control group grew more leaves than the fungi group. However, the fungi group grew taller than the control group. The inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and its expansion via mycelium symbiotic connections to the soil around the root systems of planted lemon balm may have contributed to the increase of biomass regarding the variables of plant height and number of leaves.
Recommended Citation
Fulton, Alissia D.; Banks, Oliver M.; Fortney, Tatum P.; and Panvini, Darlene PhD, "Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi’s Effect on Lemon Balm Growth" (2024). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 222.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/222
