Effect of blast furnace slag on root growth and yield of rice

Abstract

Agricultural use of industrial residues as fertilizers is due to the need of reducing nutrient accumulation in centers of production. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of blast furnace slag on root growth and productivity of highland rice irrigated by sprinkler. The experiment was carried out on field conditions. The experimental design was a randomized block, with five rates of blast furnace (0, 2,550, 5,100, 10,200, and 15,300 kg ha^-1) and four replications. Use of the slag improved chemical attributes of the soil, increased root growth and surface and reduced root diameter. It increased the silicon content in the soil and in the plant, resulting in higher yield.