Silicon as vital element in flower crop production
Poonam Kumari, Rishu Sharma, Sapna Panwar, Surinder Paul, Namita Banyal
Abstract
With the recognition of the beneficial effects of silicon (Si) on plant growth and development, research interests have focused toward utilizing this abundantly present element in the agricultural sector. Silicon plays a role in the alleviation of plant stress caused by abiotic factors, imparts disease and pest resistance, and improves plant vigor. As this element has become an agriculturally important addition in fertility regimes, floriculturists are also looking at ways to use this beneficial element for improvement of flower crops. Research findings have shown that silicon supplementation in flower crops can impact the growth, visual quality, and longevity of the cut flowers. Through this review, highlighting the potential applications of Si in different aspects of flower crop production including abiotic stress response, disease and pest resistance, toxicity alleviation, role in plant tissue culture, etc. This beneficial nutrient holds great promise to aid the floriculture industry in sustaining production and quality.