Vol. 11, Special Issue 5 (2022)

Author(s):
Mallu Parimala and Jatinder Singh

Abstract:
Silicon (Si) is the second most common element on earth's crust. It comprises approximately 28% of the earth crust and supposed to be beneficial element to improve plant growth, development and productivity. Besides this, silicon is also helpful in promoting mechanical strength, light interception and resistance to various biotic and abiotic stresses, improving both quantity and quality of production. Although Si is universal in nature, evidence of its essence for higher plants is still lacking. According to scientific literature, however, Si is conducive to the healthy growth of plants directly or indirectly. Si may be applied through soil as well as foliar application. Under stressful conditions, it acts as a bio stimulant and exhibits optimistic results. Solubilization of silicon in situ in soil by silicate-solubilizing bacteria is also being attempted, and some bacterium is used as a biofertilizer to solubilize silicon and potassium bound in silicates. The use of silicon fertilizers provides rigidity and reverses the succulence induced by high nitrogen, paving the way for a higher crop yield. This review paper compiles till date available references and their importance for yield and quality of the most important horticultural crops, including recent developments and concentrated developments in the same field.