Impact of Green Synthesized Metal Oxide Nanoparticles on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Vigna radiata (Mung Bean) and Cajanus cajan (Red Gram)

Abstract

The present study emphasis on the synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) and magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles (NPs) via a simple, eco-friendly and low-cost approach. The Aloe barbadensis Mill (Aloe-Vera) leaf extract was employed as a source of capping and reducing agents for the synthesis of ZnO and MgO NPs. The synthesized ZnO and MgO NPs were confirmed by various techniques such as UV–Visible, scanning electron microscopy, tunneling electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. TG/DTA analysis deciphers the thermal decomposition and weight loss of synthesized metal oxides NPs. Further, the influence of as-synthesized NPs on seed germination, root, and shoot, fresh and dry biomass parameters of Vigna radiata (mung bean) and Cajanus cajan (red gram) seeds was assessed. A significant increment in the germination rate of MgO and ZnO NPs treated seeds was observed relative to water treated seeds (control). Moreover, chlorophyll content was also examined to validate the seed germination potential of synthesized NPs. Therefore, this study provides a positive step towards the development of inorganic nanomaterials via the green approach and their applications as green agrochemicals.