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How silicon fertilizer improves nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient availability in paddy soil?
Yuqi Liang1,2, Min Liao1,2, Zhiping Fang1,2
1College of Environmental and Resource Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B
|July 16, 2021
Summary
Silicon fertilizer enhances nitrogen and phosphorus availability in paddy soil by boosting microbial activity and community diversity. Optimal application rates improve nutrient cycling and soil health.
Area of Science:
- Soil Science
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P) are crucial macronutrients for plant growth, and their availability in paddy soils can be limiting.
- Silicon (Si) fertilizer is increasingly recognized for its potential to improve soil properties and nutrient dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the mechanism by which silicon fertilizer enhances nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient availability in paddy soil.
- To determine the optimal concentration of silicon fertilizer for maximizing soil microbial activity and nutrient cycling.
Main Methods:
- Soil culture experiments were conducted with varying silicon fertilizer concentrations (0, 5.2, 10.4, 15.6, and 20.8 μg/kg) and fixed N and P levels.
- Soil N and P availability, microbial activity, abundance of ammonia-oxidizing and P-decomposing bacteria, and enzyme activities (urease, phosphatase) were measured.
- Soil microbial community structure and diversity were analyzed using sequencing techniques and diversity indices (Chao1, ACE, Shannon, Simpson).
Main Results:
- Soil N and P availability, microbial activity, and enzyme activities initially increased with Si application, peaking at 15.6 μg/kg, with significant improvements compared to controls.
- Optimal Si application (10.4–15.6 μg/kg) significantly enhanced the richness and diversity of the soil microbial community involved in N and P cycling.
- High correlations were observed between N and P mineralization indicators and microbial community parameters, highlighting the role of microbial enhancement.
Conclusions:
- The application of silicon fertilizer, particularly at rates between 10.4 and 15.6 μg/kg, effectively improves nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient availability in paddy soils.
- The primary mechanism involves the enhancement of soil microbial community structure diversity and overall microbial activity, which facilitates nutrient cycling.
- Silicon fertilizer represents a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture, promoting soil health and nutrient use efficiency in rice cultivation.
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