Influence of silicon on grain discoloration and upland rice grown on four savanna soils of Brazil

In silicon (Si)-deficient soils, calcium silicate fertilization can reduce rice diseases and increase yields. Experiments were conducted in the greenhouse to investigate the effects of Si on rice yield and grain discoloration in four different savanna soils from Brazil, Typic Acrustox-isohyperthermic (LEa), Typic Acrustox-isohyperthermic (LVa), Rhodic Acrustox-isohyperthermic (LRd), and Ustoxic Quartzipsammentic-isohyperthermic (AQa). Five Si rates (0, 120, 240, 480, and 960 kg ha(-1)) were applied to each soil. Silicon applications increased total grain weights and dramatically reduced grain discoloration independent of soil type. In addition, Si concentration increased in the leaves.