Silicon alters early development of bean seedlings from seeds infected by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum

Silicon (Si) is a mineral element that confers numerous benefits to crops. Thus, seed coating with Si can be potentially beneficial for seedling performance and development, as well as strengthening plant defense against pathogen attack in the early stages. In order to evaluate the effect of Si in response to infection by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum during early bean development, seeds of two cultivars, resistant (BRS Esplendor) and susceptible (IPR Tuíiú) to the fungus, were inoculated through the contact method by water restriction and coated (+ Si) or not (-Si) with silicate. The source used was calcium and magnesium silicate at a dose of 90 g.100 kg-1 seeds (10.28% Si), plus polymer and water totaling 1L syrup volume to 100 kg-1 seeds. Tests were performed to evaluate the physiological quality, sanitary, damage of the disease in seedlings and nutrient accumulation in aerial part. Seed coating with Si decreases the incidence and severity of C. lindemuthianum and provides greater growth of bean seedlings.