| Potato crops are susceptible to various insect pests including the aphid Myzus persicae (Hemiptera, Aphididae) and the beetle Diabrotica speciosa (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae). Induced resistance through silicon treatment of plants represents a potential strategy in pest management. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of silicic acid on the development, productivity and level of infestation by beetles and aphids following foliar application to potato plants cultivated in the presence of organic compost or chemical fertiliser. Four experimental groups were studied, namely, plants cultivated in soil supplied with organic compost (30 t/ha) and either treated or non-treated with 0.5% silicic acid, and plants cultivated in soil supplied... |
