Silicon, the unknown nutrient
Perhaps one of the most important discoveries in cannabis growing has been the importance of silicon as an essential nutrient. Scientists have realized the enormous influence it has in its growth and health.
Silicon is the second most common element in the Earth’s crust. It is the major component of every soil on the planet in the form of sand or quartz crystals. This does not mean it is immediately available to the plant. Firstly, silicon is absorbed as silicic acid, H4SiO4, by the roots and after it is transported through the xylem to stems and leaves.
The way silicon works in plants is not completely understood. We know silica polymers are deposited in xylem vessels, epidermal cell walls and the base of leaf hairs that is where the water naturally exits the plant. This helps the plant the plants immune system against insects, pathogens and various environmental stresses.
Stronger cell walls make plant more resistant to pests because it is much more difficult for insects to penetrate and therefore to suck and feed. Stronger plant cells are a “wall” that avoids water loss through transpiration and fungal penetration. Because of this, those plants treated with silicon supplements are less prone to mildew and are also less susceptible to drought stress. Plants treated with silicon are more resistant to cold and heat. To receive the greatest benefit from silicon, the product must be applied from the beginning. This way silicon is absorbed and is set in place in the new tissues the plant develops. It will not translocate like other nutrients, nitrogen for example, if is needed somewhere else.
The benefits of silicon in cannabis are unquestionable. When given early to seedlings or clones, the root system becomes much more resistant to diseases like fusarium. It builds inside the plant cell walls and produces remarkable structural strength and a better capacity to produce much better buds. The leave will be greener due to the increased ability of producing chlorophyll.
The best way to add silicon to a feeding protocol is to apply a supplement that has soluble silicate. Potassium silicate must be applied to the growing medium in order to get the best results. Because it has the benefit of being a source of additional potassium. It is very alkaline. Therefore, one must refer to the manufacturer recommendation as to pH adjustments needed and tank mix compatibility. Foliar applications can be applied too but it is not as efficient as adding the product to the soil.