Silicon Application Methods Influence the Nutrient Uptake of Maize Plants in Tropical Soil

Abstract

Purpose: The benefits of applying silicon to plants under stressful conditions are recognized. However, few studies have shown the effect of supply and form of application of silicon on the nutrition of plants grown under ideal conditions. This study aimed to verify the effects of different methods of silicon application on the nutrient uptake of maize in two tropical soils. Methods: Silicon was supplied in three application methods (in the planting furrow, in the total pot area, and spraying) at two rates (30 and 120 mg Si kg−1 in soil; 2.56 and 7.68 mg Si pot−1 in leaf spraying) in maize plants in two tropical soil types (loamy sand textured soil and sandy clay loam textured soil). Thirty days after emergence, the concentrations of macronutrients, micronutrients, and silicon were evaluated. Results: In sandy soil, potassium silicate application contributed to an increase in N, P, K, Mg, Si, and Cu concentrations, whereas in clay soil, there was an increase in the plant concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Si, and Mg. Conclusion: It was concluded that silicon application contributed to greater nutrient uptake in maize plants. Our study suggests that silicon application could be an important tool for increasing mineral fertilization in tropical soil conditions.