Influence of Nano-silica foliar application on growth and yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) under drought stress condition

Abstract

Nano-silica and micro silica powders were tested on maize plants. Silicate nanoparticles (SNPs) were applied by foliar application at different concentrations under field conditions. The basic parameters such as stem height, stem width, grain yield, and grain nutrient content were determined. SNPs enhanced all aspects. Since SNPs achieved significant values of morphological, grain yield and grain component higher than other treatments especially low levels of foliar application of SNPs. Different plant characteristics measured wasn't affected by the ration of irrigation water when treated with foliar application of SNPs. We recommend to useing foliar application of SNPs especially when plant was suffering from stress condition of drought.