The effect of potassium silicate on pest resistance and postharvest longevity in chrysanthemum plants

Abstract

Chrysanthemum is one of the most beautiful flowers and probably the oldest plant grown commercially in different parts of the world. Chrysanthemum, like all other plants, is susceptible to attack by various pests and diseases. The use of silicon has been shown to minimize damage caused by insect and also increase shelf life. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of potassium silicate in pest resistance and postharvest longevity of chrysanthemum. The experiment was carried out in the experimental area of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Espírito Santo - Itapina Campus, the treatments consisted of four doses of potassium silicate - Sifol® (2, 4, 6 and 8 mL L−1) and a control treatment without foliar application of potassium silicate applied to chrysanthemum cv. Zembla. Leaf application of potassium silicate reduced the incidence of cercosporiosis and thrips in chrysanthemum leaves. Chrysanthemum leaf and flower longevity increased when potassium silicate doses were applied. It is recommended for chrysanthemum cv. Zembla applications of 0.6 and 0.8 mL L−1 potassium silicate.