Dear Spencer,
As I said in my message above there is not a lot known about Si in
ferns. I searched high and low recently, but found only a few relevant
articles, mostly just giving Si content. There is almost nothing known
on the effects of Si on the growth of ferns and allies, with the major
exception being Equisetum.
There are unlikely to be major risks in applying Si (provided you
apply in a sensible manner), as it is impossible to make a solution
that is concentrated enough to cause damage. There may be some
benefits, particularly with control of fungal diseases. I have worked
on Si in plants since 1980, and more details of my research can be
found on my web site below. Do feel free to contact me for further
advice.
Best Wishes,
Martin

Dr Martin J. Hodson,
Principal Lecturer in Environmental Biology,
School of Biological and Molecular Sciences,
Oxford Brookes University,
Gipsy Lane, Headington,
Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK

Tel.: ++44 (0)1865 483954
Fax: ++44 (0)1865 483242
Email:
Web: http://www.hodsons.org/MartinHodson/



goodfern wrote in message ...
I am a commercial fern grower in Costa Rica and am interested in any
information about the benefits or risks of applying silicon to my
ferneries. I grow Leatherleaf Fern (rumohra Adiantiformis). If there
is anyone who would be interested in doing research on my farms in
sunny Costa Rica, I will entertain offers.

Spencer Manners

www.tropicfern.com


--
goodfern
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