What effect does Selenium (Se) have on plants?

Selenium (Se) plays a crucial role in plant health, primarily as a micronutrient that can enhance overall growth. It is known to help mitigate oxidative stress in plants by functioning as an antioxidant, which improves the plant's ability to tolerate environmental stressors such as drought, salinity, and heavy metal toxicity. By aiding in the reduction of oxidative damage, Selenium can facilitate better growth and development processes. This improvement in overall growth encompasses various physiological functions, including enhancing photosynthetic activity and nutrient uptake.

While other effects might be observed in the presence of Selenium, such as potential influences on fruit size, root health, or chlorophyll content, these are not its primary or most consistent outcomes in a broad context. The most notable and frequently discussed benefit of Selenium in plants is its contribution to overall growth improvements, which solidifies it as a vital micronutrient in promoting healthy plant development.