Effect of silica and magnesium on yield of upland rice in the humid tropics

Grain yield, dry-matter production, and susceptibility to grain discoloration syndrome of upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) in relation to nutrient supplies were studied in Ultisols in Nigeria's humid tropics. Nutrients identified as necessary to produce high dry matter were N, K, Mg, and Si. Among these nutrients, Mg and Si were found to be involved in the protection of rice plants against grain discoloration and their application increased the grain yield of 3 varieties by an average of 34%.