Date of Award
2-8-2022
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Agriculture, MSA
First Advisor
Jianfeng Xu
Committee Members
Edward Brown; J. Kim Pittcock
Call Number
LD 251 .A566t 2021 L69
Abstract
Silicon (Si), the second most abundant element on earth, has many unique qualities that have led to advances in medicine, computer technology, mechanics, and cosmetics. Awareness of Si deficiency in soil has recently become recognized as being a limiting factor for crop production; particularly in Si-accumulating plants and in soils that are low or limited in its availability. Increasing interest in the effects of differing nanoparticles on plant growth and yield has led to the production of Si nanoparticle (Si-NP) fertilizers. This research attempted to compare the effects of different Si-NP fertilizers on the growth, development, and yield of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) and spicy globe basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) when applied at certain stages of growth and among different treatment groups. The results of this study indicated that application of certain Si-NP fertilizers led to an increase in germination rate and overall plant size; while others resulted in overall inhibition of plant tissue growth and, in rare cases, necrosis. These effects varied depending upon the fertilizer and plant species in question. Effects of Si-NP fertilizers on cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentrations were also tested. However, due to the lighting problem in the greenhouse, the hemp plants did not mature normally, which led to inconclusive results.
Rights Management
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Lowe, Morgan Brittany, "Effects of Silica Nanoparticle Liquid Fertilizer on Germination and Yield in Various Plant Species" (2022). Student Theses and Dissertations. 279.
https://arch.astate.edu/all-etd/279
