Forms of application of silicon in quinoa and benefits involved in the association between productivity with grain biofortification

Abstract

Multiple aspects of the physiological and nutritional mechanisms involved with silicon (Si) absorption by quinoa plants remain poorly investigated, as well as the best way of supplying this element to crops. Thus, this study aimed at evaluating whether the application of Si increases its uptake by quinoa plants and consequently the use efficiency of N and P, as well as the levels of phenolic compounds in the leaves, crop productivity and the biofortification of grains. For this purpose, the concentration of 3 mmol L−1 of Si was tested, according to the following procedures: foliar application (F), root application in the nutrient solution (R), combined Si application via nutrient solution and foliar spraying (F + R), and no Si application (0). The provision of Si through the leaves and roots promoted the highest uptake of the element by the plant, which resulted in an increased use efficiency of N and P. Consequently, such a higher uptake favored the productivity of grains. The optimal adoption of the application of Si through leaves and roots promoted the highest Si concentration and ascorbic acid content in quinoa grains.

Silicon Application Methods Influence the Nutrient Uptake of Maize Plants in Tropical Soil

“…However, due the limited diffusion of P in the soil and low use-e ciency in tropical soils (~ 10-20%), it is possible that Si application increases the physiological traits of crops. According to Lata-Tenesaca et al [42], Si plays an important role in photosynthesis and transpiration, increasing the expression of the gene responsible for plant nutrient uptake. In addition, higher P concentrations using the planting furrow and total area methods compared to spraying provide evidence that uptake of Si by roots can be linked with transport from the root to plant shoots.…”

Silicon in the form of nanosilica mitigates P toxicity in scarlet eggplant

“…Therefore, Si nanoparticles have been identified as an alternative source to make Si available to plants because of its size (less than 100 nm), which may increase Si absorption 25 – 29 and improve the beneficial effects of these elements to plants. One of the known mechanisms of Si in mitigating different stresses is the improvement of the antioxidant defence system of plants, which may vary according to enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanisms 30 – 36 . However, there is a lack of research specifically studying Si mechanisms involving the mitigation of P toxicity stress in scarlet eggplant plants.…”