Potassium silicate applications in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Monech) cultivation: A comprehensive review on mitigating abiotic and biotic stresses

Context: In agriculture, potassium silicate (K2SiO3) shows promise for mitigating biotic and abiotic stressors in crops like okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). This analysis explores its interactions with soil health, plant physiology, and insect control. Objective: This review aims to assess potassium silicate's effectiveness as a mineral fertilizer and biocontrol agent in improving plant health and promoting sustainable farming by managing biotic and abiotic stressors. Methods: This study reviews recent findings on potassium silicate in agriculture, focusing on its impact on plant resistance, nutrient uptake, and insect control. It also examines its effectiveness against abiotic stresses like salt and drought, biotic stressors such as Meloidogyne incognita and Fusarium oxysporum, and its effects on non-target organisms like earthworms and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacterium (PGPR). Results and conclusions: Potassium silicate enhances nutrient uptake, strengthens plant resistance to adverse conditions, and promotes overall plant health and growth. It effectively mitigates abiotic stressors, stabilizing agricultural output. As a biocontrol agent, it targets nematodes and fungi, serving as a sustainable alternative to synthetic pesticides, with minimal negative effects on non-target organisms. This review underscores its potential in integrated pest management systems, highlighting potassium silicate's promise for improving crop resilience, productivity, and environmental sustainability in okra and other crops. Significance: This study highlights how potassium silicate can improve crop resilience to biotic and abiotic challenges, encourage nutrient uptake, and provide environmentally acceptable pest management options to improve agricultural sustainability. The information offered may help direct future studies and real-world applications in sustainable agriculture.