Aplicação foliar de boro com silício aumenta a produtividade e a qualidade da fibra do algodoeiro

Abstract

In the development of cotton and production of fiber with quality, adequate plant nutrition is important, with emphasis on the nutrient boron (B) and the beneficial element silicon (Si). However, information about the foliar application of B and Si associated in the same spray solution is still incipient in the literature. Thus, it is important to test the hypothesis that the use of B associated with Si can promote an increase in cotton quality and productivity in relation to the isolated use of both elements. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the foliar application of B, Si and B associated with Si and to verify the effects on cotton yield and fiber quality. The experiment was designed in randomized blocks with four treatments: water (control); leaf boron (1.5 g L-1 of B); leaf silicon (1.15 g L-1 of Si); and boron + leaf silicon (1.5 g L-1 of B + 1.15 g L-1 of Si), in six replications. Four foliar applications were carried out, starting in B1 with intervals of 7 to 11 days. Sampling of 10 leaves per plot was performed to evaluate leaf B and Si content, cotton yield and fiber quality (fiber length and strength). Application of B, Si and B+Si improved plant nutrition, resulting in increased productivity and fiber quality, providing greater strength and length of cotton fibers.