Editorial: Silicon: A “Quasi-Essential” element’s role in plant physiology and development

Abstract

Silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element present in the Earth’s crust after oxygen, i.e., 28.8% in dry weight basis. Plants absorb Si in the form of orthosilicic acid [Si(OH)4]. Supplementation of Si has showed various beneficial effects on plants such as improved growth, yield, and tolerance against abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Owing to its benefits for plants, Si has been declared as a “Quasi-Essential” element. Accumulation of Si varies between plant species. Monocots such as rice accumulate approximately 10% of its dry weight, which is higher than essential elements such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Application of Si has a remarkable impact against pathogens, pests, and insects invasion in several plant species (Song et al., 2021). Similarly, Si combats against various abiotic stresses such as drought, cold, salinity, UV-B, and heavy metals (Mir et al., 2022).