Effects of Nanoparticulate Delivery of Silicon on the Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Silicon is a quasi-essential element despite of its critical role in growth and productivity of plants. Herein, we intend to assess the effects of nanoscale silica particles (foliar application) on the growth and productivity of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Nanoscale silica was prepared using chemical method and was characterized for detailing the size, structure and surface morphology. Foliar spray of different concentrations (50, 100, 200, 400, 600 800 and 1000 ppm) of nanoscale silica significantly influenced on growth and yield attributes of rice. Significant grain yield (22.57 g plant-1) and straw yields (30.47 g plant-1) were recorded (28.60% and 19.16% higher respectively) with SiNPs @ 200 ppm compared to silicic acid @ 4 ml L-1 (17.55 and 25.5 g plant-1). Silicon content in straw (3.19%), grain (1.33%) and protein content (8.49%) were significantly higher @200 ppm SiNPs compared to silicic acid @ 4 ml L-1 (2.65%, 1.10% and 7.78% respectively). Significantly enhanced antioxidant enzymatic activities @ 800 ppm SiNPs over silicic acid @ 4 ml L-1. Thus, SiNPs have significant promontory effects on the overall growth and yield of rice.