The Role of Silicon in Strawberry Production

Abstract

Silicon (Si) is among the most abundant elements in the Earth’s crust, although most of it is in an insoluble form. Si is regarded as a beneficial nutrient for its ability to alleviate abiotic and biotic stress. Soluble Si plays a role in improving strawberry ( Fragaria x ananassa) water use efficiency, activating defense enzymes, releasing volatile compounds, and developing resistance to powdery mildew and mite feeding. Si has also been implicated in the regulation of stomata closure, enhancement of drought tolerance, and mitigation of harmful reactive oxygen species produced under stress. Si fertilization has resulted in higher yield and fruit quality. Despite the documented role of Si in plant functioning defense and the existence of several genes involved in uptake and efflux, Si is not considered an essential element. However, as growers attempt to better control the growing environment through hydroponics, greenhouses, and enclosed structures, increased attention to this element is warranted.