What difference Si can make in sugarcane?

Question

And how should we apply it organically?

Answer 1

Silica is not one of the required elements needed for plants with the exception of Scouring Rush. That was one of those old world plants we looked at in one of the many labs, and it was brought up as an exception to the rule, plants don't use silica. It is found in small amounts in soil that has sand or has a quartz base to it and is so insoluble that the thought of diatoms finding enough silica for their shells is really an amazing feat. We use a soluble form of it when adding minerals to sea water, to promote the growth of a quality shell in clam seed. So a soluble form is available, but don't spend the money, it would not be a wise expense.

Answer 2

what does Si have to do with sugarcanes

Answer 3

Not much.

Just apply more N and more P (if needed).

Answer 4

The answer to your question would depend entirely where you are farming and the soil type you have.  While in most situations Si content is not a problem there are some soils where it is a nutrient that sugarcane responds well to Si added to the soil.

Si, supplied as silicic acid significantly increased cane yields of two sugarcane varieties growing in pure nutrient solution and the sucrose yield of one variety. Leaf freckling symptoms only developed on those plants not receiving Si.

     Silica (Si) is abundant in mineral soils, averaging 32% Si by weight. However, Si contents within soils like the black organic muck soils where sugarcane  is grown, Si content is quite low, often less than 4%. Sugarcane production response data have not yet been specifically calibrated for Si application. The collective experience within the sugarcane grower community suggests that for soils testing low in Si  broadcast applications of Si-slag up to 3 tons acre at planting could be beneficial.