Effect of Silicon on Plant Nutrition and Signiicance of Silicon Mobilizing Bacteria in Agronomic Practices

Abstract

Silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element in the earth's crust and plays a significant
role in plant nutrition. It has been shown to improve plant growth and yield by increasing
resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, such as drought, heat, cold, and pests. Si also
improves nutrient uptake and assimilation, particularly for macro and micronutrients such as
phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and iron. Si mobilizing bacteria (SMB) have been reported
to enhance Si availability in the soil and facilitate Si uptake by plants. This review paper
summarizes the recent research on the impact of Si on plant nutrition, including its role in
improving nutrient uptake and plant growth, and the significance of SMB in agronomic
practices. The paper also discusses the potential of using SMB as a sustainable strategy for Si
biofortification and for mitigating the effects of abiotic and biotic stresses on crops.