Silicon Improves Chilling Tolerance During Early Growth of Maize by Effects on Micronutrient Homeostasis and Hormonal Balances.

ABSTRACT: Low soil temperature in spring is a major constraint for the cultivation of tropical and subtropical crops in temperate climates, associated with inhibition of root growth and activity, affecting early growth and frequently plant performance and final yield. This study was initiated to investigate the physiological base of cold-protective effects induced by supplementation with silicon (Si), widely recommended as a stress-protective mineral nutrient. Maize was used as a cold-sensitive model plant, exposed to chilling stress and low root-zone temperature (RZT) during early growth in a lab to field approach. In a pot experiment, 2-weeks exposure of maize seedlings to low RZT of 12-14°C, induced leaf chlorosis and necrosis, inhibition of shoot and root growth and micronutrient limitation (par

SUBMITTER: Moradtalab N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5935009 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature