Nano-fertilizers and Nano-pesticides as Promoters of Plant Growth in Agriculture

Abstract

A significant shift towards sustainable agriculture has been observed in the past decade in order to address the nutritional security of global population along with a focus on minimizing environmental impact as much as possible. This can be achieved by using nanotechnology in agriculture field mainly in the form of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs)-based nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides. This is due to the fact that very small amount of conventional fertilizers actually reach the targeted site, which can be due to leaching of chemicals, microbial degradation, run-off, evaporation or hydrolysis. These fertilizers in excess amount severely affect the nutrient equilibrium of the soil. Unlike conventional agrochemicals, ENPs-based nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides have increased selectivity, gradual release dynamics and resistance to physiochemical degradation. This reduces the environmental accumulation and thus, ill effects on the agro-ecosystem. The use of these nano-agrochemicals also improves the crop productivity by increasing the availability of nutrients in soil and their uptake by plants. These nano-materials can reduce the occurrence of crop diseases by acting upon pathogens directly, through several mechanisms. This chapter elaborates on the role of ENPs-based nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides in the growth of plants. It also elucidates various types, mechanisms, benefits and potential applications of such novel nano-agrochemicals, which are necessary to attain more sustainable agriculture practices.