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Rice fertilization also pays attention to silicon and zinc
In the optimized fertilization of rice, there is often a strong emphasis on the combined use of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, but the importance of silicon and zinc is frequently overlooked. However, these micronutrients play a crucial role in ensuring high yields and quality. Rice, in particular, is known to absorb large amounts of silicon, with silica content in its stems and leaves ranging from 10% to 20%. The concentration of silicic acid in rice is approximately ten times that of nitrogen and twenty times that of phosphorus. A deficiency in silicon can lead to weak stalks, increased lodging, and greater susceptibility to diseases. Early-stage silicon deficiency reduces the number of panicles, while late-stage deficiency affects the number of spikelets, ultimately compromising both yield and grain quality. Applying silicon fertilizer enhances disease resistance, improves plant structure, increases light interception, reduces transpiration, and boosts water-use efficiency, resulting in an average yield increase of over 10%.
Zinc, though a trace element, has a significant impact on crops like rice and corn. It plays a vital role in enzyme function, chlorophyll synthesis, and carbohydrate metabolism, thereby improving photosynthetic efficiency. Rice is highly sensitive to zinc deficiency, which can cause slow leaf growth, narrow and short new leaves, and lighter green coloration, especially with yellowing along the veins near the midrib. Severe cases result in stunted growth, reduced tillering, and uneven field appearance. Root discoloration and "flower not setting" at the heading stage are also common, leading to yield losses of up to 3% or more in extreme cases. Field trials have shown that proper zinc application significantly increases plant height, effective tillers, grains per panicle, and 1000-grain weight, reducing empty-heading rates by up to 15%. This effect is particularly noticeable in acidic, calcareous, and cold paddy soils.
For silicon fertilizer application, materials containing calcium and magnesium silicates are commonly used. When applied as a base fertilizer, it should be mixed with other nutrients. The recommended rate is about 1 kg of available silicon per mu (approximately 667 square meters). For zinc, it is typically applied as a basal fertilizer at 1 kg of zinc sulfate per acre, mixed with other fertilizers. It can also be used for foliar applications, soil drenches, or seed treatments during the mid to later growth stages. A 0.3% zinc sulfate solution is commonly used as a top-dressing, with about 500 grams per acre. If zinc deficiency symptoms appear or during the late tillering stage, seeds can be soaked in a 0.1% zinc sulfate solution for 24 hours to enhance uptake and promote healthy growth.
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