Symposium--Silicon Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management

Oral Session

S08 Nutrient Management & Soil & Plant Analysis

Silicon has not been given the same level of attention as a limiting factor in soil fertility and crop production as other nutrients. This view is changing as agronomists become more aware of the valuable function of silicon nutrition in crops and soils and even animal life. Research conducted on many soils worldwide has shown that supplying crops with plant available silicon can suppress disease, reduce insect attack, improve environmental stress tolerance and increase crop productivity. Silicon is now officially designated as a plant beneficial substance by the Association of American Plant Food Control Officials (AAPFCO). Plant available silicon may now be listed on fertilizer labels.