Effective administration of silicon in tomato

Potassium silicate is a fertilizer that has been successfully applied for decades, by cucumber growers amongst others. Positive results have also been validated by PPO / WUR . The fertilizer is pulsed from the storage tank into the container with a pump. The high pH of Potassium silicate is then compensated by additional acid in the B - tray. This sometimes gives startup problems with pH control, but after a proper alignment / adjustment we see in practice that the dosing of Potassium silicate is generally successful. In order to reduce the pH effects, researchers are engaged in a trial to increase acid levels in the Potassium silicate. There are already some good results with a tomato grower diluting Potassium silicate in advance and adding a small amount of nitric acid. It is important that the pH remains high in this solution. Based on years of experience, Potassium silicate remains a grower’s best option. 

In recent years, a new type of silicon fertilizer is emerging, namely silicic acid. We carry the Siliforce brand name, which is known for its excellent (pharmaceutical) qualities. The product is suitable for human use and has now reached the horticulture by remarkably good results. After a dose of Siliforce, there is a relatively small amount of silicon left in the irrigation water. However, the silicon which is present, is 100% digestible. 

With tomatoes, we have limited experience with the effects of Siliforce. However, with apples, pears, ornamental plants and cut gerbera, we have had very positive experiences. Here, Siliforce is almost always used in combination with amino acids and calcium fertilization and is dosed weekly. PH problems with the unit are not an issue.