Welcome back to the Porpo's Almanac.

Again, my name is Andy, your host, and today we're joined by Dr. Liz Kozial, an assistant

research professor at the Kansas Biological Survey and Center for Ecological Research at the

University of Kansas. Dr. Koziel's work is at the forefront of understanding plant

microbe interactions with a particular focus on arbuscular microisal fungi and their

application in grassland restoration. Her research includes comprehensive assessments of

commercial microbial inoculance, which has garnered attention from NPR and recent memory.

In a recent study examining 23 products, Dr. Koziol's work has highlighted issues with product

label inaccuracies and low viability in commercial products. Beyond commercial products,

Dr. Kozial is a pioneer in using native microizal fungi to improve ecological outcomes.

Her studies show that introducing native fungi can significantly enhance

native grass on diversity and suppress weeds, with the benefits persisting for several years,

as we'll discuss. This approach is crucial for advancing native plant restoration,

improving the establishment of desirable species and accelerating plant succession.

Her research has also demonstrated

the practical benefits of native fungi in agriculture,

showing positive effects on crops like tomato and pepper varieties

in organically farmed soils.

So with all that said, we had to talk,

and her research is illuminating.

So take a listen.

Let us know what you think.

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