Assessing the effect of silicon fertilization on the productivity of maize (Zea mays L.)‎ grown in a clay sodic soil

Abstract EN

Silicon (Si.) has an important role as a nutrient element to many plants belongs to the poaceae family such as maize.

To assess the effect of silicon fertilizer on maize production, a field experiment was carried out in the Faculty of Technology and Development Farm, Ghazala El-Khis Village Zagazig, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt during two summer seasons of ٢٠١٣ and ٢٠١٤.

Plants were sprayed with Si solution of ٠, ١٤٠, ٢٨٠, ٤٢٠, and ٥٦٠ mg Si l-١ applied as potassium silicate.

The foliar spray on maize leaves was done ٣٠ days after planting and repeated ١٠ days after the first dose for ٤ times.

Increasing the level of Si increased the biomass yield, grain yield, ١٠٠-grain weight and grain protein content.

Contents of N, P and K in leaves increased by increasing the application level of silicon, whereas, Na content decreased.

The study demonstrates that addition of silicon may ameliorate the hazard effects of sodium ion in clayey sodic soils.