The Effects of Foliar Sprays with Different Silicon Compounds

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Physiology
• Nanotechnology in Agriculture

Background:

• Foliar application of silicon compounds is a recent agricultural innovation.
• Early methods involved silicates (1990), followed by stabilized silicic acid (2003), and silica nanoparticles more recently.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution and applications of foliar silicon sprays.
• To summarize the effects of different silicon formulations on plant health and productivity.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical data and recent studies on foliar silicon spray applications.
• Analysis of reported outcomes for silicates, silicic acid, and silica nanoparticles.

Main Results:

• Foliar silicates demonstrate efficacy as pesticides.
• Stabilized silicic acid sprays promote increased plant growth and yield, while reducing biotic and abiotic stresses.
• Preliminary data suggest foliar silica nanoparticles may reduce biotic stress and slightly enhance growth and yield.

Conclusions:

• Foliar silicon sprays represent a versatile tool in agriculture with distinct benefits depending on the compound used.
• Silicic acid and silica nanoparticles show promise for improving crop resilience and productivity.