Application of Zhenghe Silica Sol: Foliar Silicon Fertilizer
Release date:
2026-01-19
Silica sol, as a new type of foliar silicon fertilizer, boasts promising application prospects in modern precision agriculture thanks to its high absorption efficiency, multi-functional benefits, and eco-friendly characteristics. Currently, certain models from our company’s JN alkaline, ZS neutral, and SW acidic silica sol series have been successfully applied in liquid silicon fertilizers. For more details, please feel free to call us for further information.
The application of silica sol as a foliar silicon fertilizer holds significant potential in agriculture. Its unique physicochemical properties enable it to excel in promoting plant growth and enhancing stress resistance.
I. Mechanism of Action of Silica Sol as a Foliar Silicon Fertilizer
1. Direct absorption and transport
Nanoscale silica particles in silica sol (typically with particle sizes <20 nm) can be rapidly absorbed by plants through leaf stomata or intercellular spaces of epidermal cells and transported via transpiration to parts such as stems and roots. These particles then deposit in cell walls, forming a silicified layer that enhances mechanical strength.
2. Enhance stress resistance
Physical barrier: The silicified layer can reduce infestations by pests and diseases (such as aphids and powdery mildew) as well as damage from ultraviolet radiation.
Physiological Regulation: Silicon induces plants to produce resistance enzymes (such as peroxidase and chitinase), enhancing their tolerance to drought, salinity, and heavy-metal stress.
3. Promote photosynthesis and nutrient absorption
Silicon can optimize leaf angles, reduce shading, and enhance the utilization of light energy; at the same time, it promotes the absorption and translocation of elements such as phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
II. Core Advantages of Silica Sol Foliar Fertilizer
1. High absorption efficiency
Nanoscale particles are more readily absorbed by leaves than conventional silicates (such as potassium silicate), and they can quickly replenish silicon, especially during periods when plants have high silicon demands—such as the tillering stage and fruit-setting stage.
2. Environmental friendliness
Neutral or slightly acidic (pH 5–7), posing no risk of leaf burn.
No heavy metal residues, compliant with green agriculture standards.
3. High compatibility
It can be mixed with most pesticides and chelated trace elements to reduce the number of spray applications.
III. Application Methods and Key Technical Points
1. Applicable crops
Silicon-loving crops: rice, sugarcane, corn, wheat, cucumber, tomato, and others.
Economic crops: strawberries, grapes, citrus fruits (to prevent fruit cracking), and flowers (to extend flowering period).
2. Concentration and Frequency of Use
Dilution concentration: Recommended range is 50–200 ppm (calculated as SiO₂), with specific adjustments made according to crop type. For example:
Rice tillering stage: 100–150 ppm, spray 2–3 times.
Fruit tree fruit enlargement stage: 200 ppm, applied every 10–15 days.
Spraying time: Early morning or late evening, avoiding high temperatures and strong sunlight that could cause evaporation.
3. Synergistic Pairing
When compounded with humic acid and alginic acid, it enhances silicon’s permeability and adhesion to leaves.
When used in combination with calcium fertilizers, it enhances fruit firmness (e.g., grapes, apples).
IV. Precautions
1. Avoid mixing with strongly alkaline substances.
Silica sol tends to gel easily when exposed to high pH values (>8), so it should be avoided from being mixed with Bordeaux mixture, lime sulfur, and other similar formulations.
2. Impact on water quality
Hard water (containing Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺) may cause flocculation; it is recommended to dilute it with softened water.
3. Storage conditions
Store at low temperature (5–25℃) away from light to prevent a decline in colloidal stability.
V. Real-world Application Cases
Rice trial: Foliar application of silica sol (150 ppm) reduced the incidence of blast disease by 30% and increased yield by 8-12%.
Strawberry cultivation: After foliar spray during the flowering period, fruit firmness increases by 20%, and the incidence of gray mold decreases by 40%.
Citrus crack prevention: Applying the treatment three times consecutively during the young fruit stage reduced the fruit-cracking rate from 15% to below 5%.
VI. Comparison with Traditional Silicon Fertilizers
Silica sol, as a new type of foliar silicon fertilizer, boasts promising application prospects in modern precision agriculture thanks to its high absorption efficiency, multi-functional benefits, and eco-friendly characteristics. Currently, certain models from our company’s JN alkaline, ZS neutral, and SW acidic silica sol series have been successfully applied in liquid silicon fertilizers. For more details, please feel free to call us for further information.
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