Journal of Environmental Biology

Effect of silicon application on soil physical and chemical properties under drought stress

A.A.M. Al-Ghamdi* and A.M. Ashram

Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah-21488, Saudi Arabia

*Corresponding Author Email : amalalgamdi@gmail.com

Received: 27.07.2020                                                                     Revised: 01.12.2020                                                 Accepted: 29.12.2020

Abstract

Aim: To study the effect of silicon application on soil properties under normal conditions and different levels of drought stress (75%, 50% and 25% field capacity).

Methodology: Nigella sativa seeds were sown in pots filled with 5 kg of homogeneously mixed 2:1 ratio of sand to clay soil. Two set of plants were grown-one set was grown in soil without silicon treatment, and the other was treated with silicic acid (120 g kg-1 soil). For drought stress conditions, each set was subdivided into four sets, which were irrigated at 100% (control), 75%, 50%, and 25% field capacity. Dry soil samples were used to determine the inorganic content, including phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron.   

Results: The results showed that the concentration of soil minerals (phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron) increased due to silicon treatment. However, this increase in mineral concentration was more pronounced at higher water levels (100%, 75% field capacity) in the case of potassium, calcium, and iron. Of note, the increase in phosphorus and magnesium concentration after silicon treatment was remarkable under higher stress conditions (50%, 25% field capacity).                         

Interpretation: Overall, silicon application increased soil minerals and alleviated drought stress.        

Key words: Drought stress, Mineral ions, Nigella sativa, Silicic acid

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