Effect of silicon and humic substances on the productivity and absorption of minerals in cucumber

Abstract

O Objective: To evaluate the effect of potassium silicate and humic substances in the mitigation of salt stress in cucumber grown in a greenhouse. Design/Methodology/Approach: A completely randomized design with factorial arrangement was used. The first factor was the cucumber varieties (Var): Induran (I) and SV2516 (SV). The second factor was potassium silicate (Si), with doses of 0, 10, and 20 mL·L-1. The third factor was humic substances (SH), with doses of 0, 10, and 20 kg/ha. Results: The best interaction for the NFP and Y variables was SV*SH20. The N and Ca content in the fruit was I*SH10, while the K and P content was SV*Si20. Meanwhile, Mg, Fe, and Cu interactions stood out with SV*Si10, SV*Si20, and I*Si10, respectively. The best interaction in leaf mineral content was I*SH20 (N), SV*SH10 (P and K), and SV*Si20 (Cu). Study Limitations/Implications: There was no significant difference in Ca, Mg, and Fe in leaf. Findings/Conclusions: At least one of the interactions between cultivars and bio stimulant doses favored agronomic traits, quality, and mineral absorption in fruit.