Why is it interesting to associate Bacillus with a supply of Silicon for cultivated plants?
The association between bacteria of the genus Bacillus and a supply of silicon can be beneficial for cultivated plants for several reasons.
First of all, silicon is an important element for the growth of plants, as it strengthens their immune system and improves their resistance to diseases and environmental stresses such as drought, heat and cold. Indeed, silicon can strengthen the cellular structure of plants and stimulate the production of phytohormones, which help regulate their growth and development.
In addition, bacteria of the Bacillus genus have the ability to colonize plant roots and form beneficial associations with them. These bacteria can also produce bioactive compounds that stimulate plant growth and improve their resistance to disease. They also help increase nutrient availability to plants by producing enzymes that break down soil organic matter and fixing atmospheric nitrogen.
To respond to the global intensification of crops, the extraction of silicon from the soil is faster than what the soil system, however well endowed, is capable of releasing.
Increase the amount of Silicon
Increasing the amount of Silicon available to plants is based on 2 strategies:
- Stimulate and/or increase the activity of PGPR bacteria (and in particular that of Bacillus) in order to increase the solubilization of biogenic phytoliths contained in the soil.
- Provide an exogenous source of assimilable silicon to avoid any induced deficiency.
These exogenous inputs are generally applied to the soil or directly to the leaves in the form of a spray.
These 2 strategies lead to a significant accumulation in plant tissues and make it possible to better counter abiotic and biotic stresses and thus contribute to the improvement of plant health.
By combining bacteria of the Bacillus genus with a supply of silicon, it is therefore possible to improve the growth and resistance of plants grown in a sustainable manner. Additionally, this approach can reduce farmers’ dependence on chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers, which can have positive effects on the environment and human health.