Silicon's effect on sunflowers studied(mproved as a result of silicon supplemen...)

Date:5/7/2008

mproved as a result of silicon supplementation. "We observed thick, straight stems, increased flower and stem diameters, and increased height in some of the treatments, upgrading sunflower quality compared with untreated controls. However, growth abnormalities were observed when concentrations of silicon at 100 and 200 mg per liter were supplied as potassium silicate substrate drenches. In these treatments, plants appeared stunted with deformed flowers and were delayed in flowering. Consequently, the effects of silicon supplementation on greenhouse-produced sunflowers can vary from beneficial to detrimental depending on the applied source and concentration.", stated Cavins.

Summarizing the study outcomes, Cavins said, "Silicon is a key component in mineral soil, but it has been overlooked for years since it is not considered an essential element for plant growth and development. Sunflowers are capable of accumulating silicon from multiple sources and we found major benefits to some silicon supplements, such as increased stem diameter and improved quality."

'/>"/>

Contact: Michael W. Neff mwneff@ashs.org 703-836-4606 American Society for Horticultural Science Source:Eurekalert

0 GOOD

Page: 1 2
Related biology news :

1. Gamma globulin effective in treating eye infections caused by adenoviruses
2. UC health news: molecular pathway may predict chemotherapy effectiveness
3. Socioeconomic position associated with effectiveness of HIV drugs
4. New nanoparticle vaccine is more effective but less expensive
5. MIT model could improve some drugs effectiveness
6. New paper examines dams effects on California salmon
7. University and state agencies to forecast local health effects of climate change
8. New study shows Concord grape juice has a heart-healthy effect not yet reported with red wine
9. Trial seeks genetic fingerprint for predicting drug effectiveness
10. New hope for horse lovers as effective control for killer ragwort is proposed
11. X-effect: female chromosome confirmed a prime driver of speciation