Silicon Supplementation Affects Greenhouse Produced Cut Flowers

Abstract

Ours study objective was the evaluation of silicon (Si) supplements to enhance cut flower production quality. This was achieved by determination of optimum application methods, sources, and Si rates for improving crop quality of cut flowers. Effects of Si supplementation on transpiration and management of Botrytis cinerea in cut flowers greenhouse production was also investigated. Depending on Si source and rate, several horticultural traits of selected cut flowers were improved. Thick straight stems, increased flower diameter, and early flowering upgraded cut flower quality of Si-treated flowers. Silicon concentration and deposition in plant tissue varied among different species. A positive correlation between leaf Si concentration and SME soilless substrate samples existed (r = 0.75). Silicon foliar application acted as a film-forming antitranspirant. Decreased disease incidence of B.cinerea on stem and leaves of Si treated plants was observed.