Silicon location in strawberry plants to improve resistance to powdery mildew (Podosphaera aphanis)

In this study, the effects of 0.25% Sirus solution (silicon concentration 135 mg L^-1) root treatment on strawberry plant silicon absorption were researched. Strawberry plants were treated once every week with silicon solution. After ten applications the localization of silicon in strawberry leaves, petioles and roots were confirmed using confocal microscopy staining with Tracker Yellow HCK-123. The concentration of silicon in strawberry leaves, petioles, roots and fruits were also measured by a colorimetric method. The results showed that silicon treatment increased the concentration of the element in strawberry leaves and petioles and increased the location in epidermis of strawberry root, petioles. This accumulation in the epidermis correlates with the reduced susceptibility to strawberry powdery mildew (P. aphanis) shown in other work.