Silicon Nutrition in Rice
Durga C.
Dept. of Agronomy, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala (680 656), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Abiotic stress, Biotic stress, Monosilicic acid, Silicon
Abstract
Silicon is the second most abundant element with a concentration of 27.6% both on earth crust and in the soil. Even though it is not categorized as essential element it plays a good role in stimulating the growth and development of many plant species. Beneficial role of Si is able to mitigate both biotic and abiotic stresses. It is well known that silicon (Si) is present in primary silicate minerals, secondary alumino silicates and various forms of SiO2. Si is not found in Free State. It is a tetravalent (Si4+) element. It occurs as the oxide silica, SiO2 in various forms like quartz, agate and flint. Monosilicic acid Si(OH)4, is the prevailing form in soil solution and it’s concentrations in the soil solution are usually ranging from 14 to 20 mg/l of Si. Silicon reduces leaching of phosphorous (P), potassium (K) and it improves soil physical, chemical and biological properties, improved water holding capacity, improved soil texture and increased cationic exchange capacity.
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Reference
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