Silicon in a sustainable cropping system
Olle, M., Estonian Crop Research Inst., Jõgeva, Jõgeva County (Estonia)
The purpose of this review was to show the importance of silicon (Si) in agricultural production. Si is a second most abundant element both on the surface of the earth and in the soil. Si in plants leads to an increase in horticulture production. It has been demonstrated to have multiple direct and indirect beneficial effects on growth and development of many plants. The beneficial effects of Si are especially pronounced in the plants exposed to abiotic and biotic stresses. Si enhances tolerance of plants to metal toxicity. Si uptake by plants improves agricultural crop quality and yield. Si application could therefore improve crop production under adverse climate and soil conditions. Si can positively influence plant growth and yield, in particular, under stress conditions. Si may increase the uptake and translocation of mineral elements in plants. The application of stabilised silicic acid is called the ‘silicic acid agro technology’ (SAAT). SAAT increases root system size, length of stem/tillers, leaf area, chlorophyll content and nutrient uptake, resulting in higher yield and improved. SAAT decreases effect of biotic and abiotic stresses. Therefore, SAAT is proposed as an element in sustainable cropping strategies.
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