Conventional Fertilization Research Articles

Appraisal of Mica-Based Potassium Mobilizing Bacterial Biofertilizers: Revolutionizing Soil Fertility and Plant Growth Employing Multi-Machine Learning Models

ABSTRACT Muscovite and biotite are two forms of mica, potassium (K)-bearing minerals, that are waste products of the mica industry. This study aims to evaluate the pattern of K release from muscovite and biotite inoculated with K-mobilizing bacterial (KMB) strains such as Bacillus cereus K5B, Bacillus cereus K6, Bacillus sp. GG6 (2015) K12 and Bacillus cereus K15, as well as their effectiveness as K fertilizers using tomato plants (Solanum Lycopersicum) grown in Giridih soil (Alfisol). Applying muscovite and biotite (at 200 mg kg−1 of soil) combined with Bacillus cereus K5B notably enhanced tomato plant biomass, boosted fruit quality and yield, and improved potassium availability in the soil. This approach also helped maintain soil quality, outperforming soils treated with synthetic potassium fertilizers and untreated soils in potassium availability. Statistical algorithms predict the free ion activity (FIAM) model to transport bioavailable forms of soil K to plant parts, forecasting KMBs’ effects on water-soluble K (WK) and exchangeable K (EK) mobilization from non-exchangeable K (NEK) form and uptake by soil-plant systems, enhancing plant growth, health, and yield. Multimodal machine learning techniques, such as Fuzzy-TOPSIS, Monte Carlo simulations and Sobol sensitivity analysis, have demonstrated the effectiveness of KMB fertilizers for K5B isolates. The Taylor diagram further aids in selecting the most accurate method for predicting outcomes within the dataset. The findings of this study suggest that bio-interventions using KMB with muscovite and biotite hold significant potential as a sustainable alternative to conventional potassium fertilizers. Machine learning and statistical modeling confirm the effectiveness of KMB strains, opening new pathways for advancing biofertilizer use in agriculture to boost soil health and crop productivity. In modern agriculture, these tools enable data-driven, precise, and sustainable farming practices that enhance yields reduce environmental impact, and help farmers adapt to changing conditions.

The Use of Polymer-Coated Urea in North Florida Field Corn Production

Field corn is an important crop grown in the Suwannee Valley region of North Florida. Field corn requires high nitrogen inputs to obtain optimal yields compared to other row crops commonly grown in the region, such as peanuts and cotton. Basin management action plans (BMAPs) have been implemented in this region to reduce the leaching and runoff of nutrients, such as nitrogen, into local bodies of water. In this experiment, an on-farm trial was conducted comparing the use of polymer-coated urea as a controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) to split applications of conventional fertilizer. Plant tissue and soil samples, collected at 0–15, 15–30, 30–60, and 60–90 cm depths, were sampled approximately every two weeks throughout the growing season. The study found that CRF treatment had no significant impact on corn yield, moisture content, soil nitrate concentrations below the root zone, or plant tissue nitrogen concentrations in both the 2021 and 2022 seasons. However, contrast results did reveal significant differences between treatments at specific depths and sampling dates. The conclusion of this study is that CRF treatment did not improve yield or tissue nitrogen content compared to split applications of conventional fertilizers. The maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais), a major corn insect pest, likely contributed to the observed lower yields.

Evaluation of urea loaded nano clay biopolymer composites and nitrification inhibitors on nitrogen use efficiency under maize-wheat cropping system

Across the globe, cereal crops have only < 30% nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) due to significant loss of N.During previous decade nitrification inhibitors (NI) were promoted for better N management and utilization. However, recentresearch had been focused on developing nanoclay polymer composite based (NCPC)slow-release fertilizer for better nutrient delivery and efficient use.This study aims to synthesize a novel nano clay biopolymer composite (NCBPC) product to replace conventional fertilizers to enhance NUE. Nanoclay biopolymer composite was synthesized using different polymers such as acrylic acid and maize flour as a starch source at a 20% replacement level with acrylamide monomers via free radical polymerization and N,N,-methylene bisacrylamide as crosslinkers, nano-bentonite as diffusion barrier and ammonium persulfate as initiator. The concentration of nitrification inhibitors (DCD and 4-Fluoro-3-nitrobenzaldehyde, Schiff bases) was 1% and 3% of the N dose. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were employed for characterization of NCBPCs and a laboratory incubation study conducted to monitor N release pattern. Field evaluation of prepared product carried out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in maize and wheat crops. The recommended amount of N was 150 kg ha−1and applied at the rates of 0, 50, 75, and 100% by using urea and NCBPC (loaded with urea and nitrification inhibitors) in the three equal split doses at 45, 60, and 90 DAS (days after sowing). Our results highlightthat, NCBPC loaded with 75%N + NI maintains higher ammoniacal N and lower nitrate N in soil leaching studies and promotes better or comparable leaf chlorophyll content, root growth (length, volume and surface area), grain and straw yield as obtained under 100% N through conventional prilled urea fertilization in both the crops. NCBPC loaded with 75% N and 3% dicyandiamide (DCD) (T3) emerged as the best combination inboth the crops. It had greater apparent N recovery (40.43% and 40.60%) and agronomic NUE (36.20% and 37.10%) than conventional fertilizer in both crops, respectively. Therefore, combined application of NCBPC loaded with urea and NIs offer 25% cutdown of total N requirement and same time may be focused for better yield and N use efficiency in maize and wheat crops.

Effects of Bacillus subtilis N24 combined with liquid water-soluble carbon fertilizer on soil chemical properties and microbial community of fresh maize

Recent years have witnessed increasingly extensive application of microbial fertilizers in agriculture. However, the effectiveness of microbial fertilizers remains inconsistent because of the significant effects of soil’s physical and chemical properties on microbial colonization. Therefore, exploring the scientific application of microbial fertilizers is of great significance for improving their application effect on crops. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Bacillus subtilis combined with liquid water-soluble carbon fertilizer on soil chemical properties and the rhizosphere microbial community of fresh maize. It employed a pot experiment design, incorporating five distinct treatments: T1 (liquid water-soluble carbon fertilizer), T2 (B. subtilis N24 fermentation solution), T3 (B. subtilis + liquid water-soluble carbon fertilizer), CK0 (clean water), and CK1 (conventional fertilization). Illumina high-throughput sequencing was used to analyze corn potting soil. The results indicated that the fertilization treatments influenced the chemical properties of the rhizosphere soil of fresh maize in the following order: T3 > CK1 > T2 > T1 > CK0. The T3 treatment significantly increased the contents of total nitrogen, available nitrogen, total phosphorus, available phosphorus, potassium, and organic matter (P < 0.05). It enhanced nitrogen availability and effectively preserved phosphorus and organic matter within the soil. Furthermore, the treatment enriched the microbial community diversity in the corn rhizosphere, thereby significantly increasing the abundance of Firmicutes, Acidobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Mortierellomycota, and Basidiomycota (P < 0.05), demonstrating superior effects compared with the individual applications. The soil properties were strongly linked to microbial composition, as shown by the redundancy analysis (P < 0.05). In summary, the combined application of B. subtilis N24 and liquid water-soluble carbon fertilizer enhanced the chemical properties and fertility of the soil for fresh maize while also positively influencing the structure of the microbial community. This study provides a theoretical foundation for developing novel fertilizer application models for corn cultivation.

Teosinte-derived SynCom and precision biofertilization modulate the maize microbiome, enhancing growth, yield, and soil functionality in a Mexican field

Modern agriculture faces the challenge of optimizing fertilization practices while maintaining soil resilience and microbial diversity, both critical for sustainable crop production. We evaluated the effects of multiple fertilization strategies on soil microbial communities and plant performance, comparing conventional methods (urea-based and phosphorus fertilizers applied manually or via drone-assisted precision delivery) with biofertilization using a synthetic microbial consortium (SynCom) derived from teosinte-associated microbes. This SynCom consisted of seven bacterial strains: Serratia nematodiphila EDR2, Klebsiella variicola EChLG19, Bacillus thuringiensis EML22, Pantoea agglomerans EMH25, Bacillus thuringiensis EBG39, Serratia marcescens EPLG52, and Bacillus tropicus EPP72. High-throughput sequencing revealed significant shifts in bacterial and fungal communities across treatments. Untreated soils showed limited diversity, dominated by Enterobacteriaceae (&amp;gt;70%). Conventional fertilization gradually reduced Enterobacteriaceae while increasing Pseudomonas and Lysinibacillus populations. Drone-assisted conventional fertilization notably enhanced Acinetobacter and Rhizobiales growth. Biofertilization treatments produced the most pronounced shifts, reducing Enterobacteriaceae below 50% while significantly increasing beneficial taxa like Bacillus, Pantoea, and Serratia. Network analysis demonstrated that microbial interaction complexity increased across treatments, with Bacillus emerging as a keystone species. Drone-assisted biofertilization fostered particularly intricate microbial networks, enhancing synergistic relationships involved in nutrient cycling and biocontrol, though maintaining the stability of these complex interactions requires careful monitoring. Our findings provide key insights into how precision biofertilization with teosinte-derived microbial consortia can sustainably reshape the maize microbiome, improving crop performance and soil resilience.

Preparation and Application of Core-Shell Nanocarbon-Based Slow-Release Foliar Fertilizer.

The application of nanotechnology offers a promising solution to improve fertilizer utilization efficiency by mitigating the losses and volatilization of conventional fertilizers, contributing to sustainable agriculture. In this study, a core-shell nanocarbon-based slow-release foliar fertilizer (CN@mSiO2-NH2@Urea@PDA) was synthesized using nanocarbon (CN) as the core, amino-functionalized mesoporous silica (mSiO2-NH2) as the shell, and polydopamine (PDA) as the coating layer. BET analysis revealed a 3.5-fold and 1.9-fold reduction in material porosity after PDA encapsulation, confirming successful synthesis. The controlled-release performance was enhanced, with a 24% decrease in the release rate and a prolonged nutrient delivery duration. Hydrophobicity tests demonstrated a 20° increase in the contact angle, indicating improved adhesion. Seed germination assays validated biosafety, while field trials showed a 69.94% increase in the choy sum (Brassica rapa) yield, 21.64% higher nitrogen utilization efficiency, and 22.21% reduced nitrogen loss. The foliar application increased the plant nitrogen use efficiency by 18.37%. These findings highlight the potential of CN@mSiO2-NH2@Urea@PDA as an advanced foliar fertilizer, providing a strategic approach to promote nanomaterial applications in agriculture and enhance the acceptance of functional fertilizers among farmers.

The Effect of Complexed, Nanosized, and Conventional Zinc Sources Applied at Varying Rates to an Acidic Mediterranean Soil on Two Successive Lettuce Crops

This study investigates the current application and ageing effects of various Zn sources on acidic Mediterranean soil. Two successive lettuce crops were grown in soil fertilised with 0, 15, 30, 60, and 140 mg Zn kg−1 using commercial ZnO nanoparticles, Zn complex, and Zn sulphate. Plant growth, Zn biofortification, dietary implications, human health, and the soil Zn status were evaluated. Zinc bioavailability was influenced by the source, application rate, and chemical ageing. The bioavailability of Zn in the soil increased from 4.60 to 66.7 compared to the control treatment. Zinc applied in the form of ZnSO4 was the most bioavailable form in the first year of cultivation. Advanced specialty fertilisers such as ZnO nanoparticles and Zn-lignosulfonate, along with the conventional fertiliser ZnSO4, demonstrated a residual effect allowing effective Zn uptake by plants in the second crop. Zn concentrations in lettuce leaves were 3.33–34.6 times higher than the control treatment. Application of 30 mg Zn kg−1 and higher of commercial ZnO nanoparticles, Zn complex, and Zn sulphate heptahydrate resulted in some toxicity. Higher application rates of these sources may pose a potential risk to the population, as indicated by the health risk index. These Zn sources represent a promising alternative for enhancing plant growth and providing a sustained release of Zn in several successive crops, making them a potential alternative to conventional fertilisers. Their unique properties can optimise nutrient management strategies and promote sustainable crop production.

Application of Sargassum muticum as a nature-based fertilizer to enhance the growth of Capsicum annuum L. plants

Macroalgae, based on their content in bioactive molecules, are solicited for sustainable crop production. This study explores the use of Sargassum muticum from Moroccan coasts, as a biofertilizer for Capsicum annuum L. The biochemicals and mineralogical characterization of S. muticum confirmed its richness in protein, sugar, nitrogen, macro- and micro-elements. Thus, biomass analysis revealed the presence of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at 0.14 mg. g−1. C. annuum were exposed to 5, 20, and 30 g. kg−1 of S. muticum and were compared to controls. Results showed improvements in plant growth parameters. Photosynthetic activity, minerals, protein, and total sugar content, were also enhanced mainly with 20 g. kg−1. The fruits nutritional yield was significantly improved. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents were of 95.2, 136.8, and 639.2 mg·g−1 dry weight. The obtained results encourage the application of S. muticum as an environmentally friendly biofertilizer for promoting sustainable crops, and reducing the adverse effects of conventional chemical fertilizers.

Effects of biochar produced from rice straw and oil cake on soil nutrients, growth, yield and nutrient content of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

A pot experiment was conducted to assess the comparative effects of biochar and conventional inorganic NPK fertilizers on wheat growth and nutrient content as well as certain soil chemical and nutritional properties. Biochar produced from oil cake and rice straw were mixed with soils at rates of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5% (w/w) and inorganic NPK fertilizer was also mixed separately with soils at rates of 0, ¼, ½, ¾ and 1 of the recommended rate. Biochar increased the fresh weight and dry weight of wheat plant parts significantly. The root biomass and grain yield with oil cake biochar (OCB) were relatively higher than with rice straw biochar (RSB). Biochar application at a 4-5% rate produced maximum wheat root, straw and grain yield which were comparable to the recommended inorganic 1 NPK rate. The study revealed that oil cake biochar (OCB) was more effective in increasing soil organic carbon (OC), whereas rice straw biochar (RSB) was found to be more effective in raising soil pH, soil electrical conductivity (EC) and decreasing soil exchangeable acidity. A similar effect on soil cation exchange capacity (CEC) was also observed with both types of biochar. The soil available ammonium N (NH4 +-N), Olsen P and K content increased with increasing rates of both biochar and inorganic NPK in soils after the harvest of plants. Applying biochar at a rate of 5% resulted in the highest effect on the soil’s chemical and nutritional properties. Maximum N, P and K concentrations in wheat root, straw and grain were found at 4-5% biochar rates, which were significantly higher than inorganic NPK fertilizer rates.

Harnessing Vitamin C Industrial Byproducts for Sustainable Agriculture: Improved Soil Quality and Maize Production in Degraded Semi-Arid Farmlands

Vitamin C industrial residue after evaporation (RAE) acts as both a rapid-release carbon source and a microbial activity promoter. A two-year maize field experiment assessed the effectiveness of RAE in improving soil quality in degraded semi-arid regions. The RAE formulation was applied via drip irrigation during the sixth true leaf unfolded (BBCH 24), fourteenth true leaf unfolded (BBCH 38), and middle of grain filling (BBCH 66) stages, which consisted of three treatments: (1) untreated control (CK), (2) low RAE rate (LR: 150 L/ha), and (3) high RAE rate (HR: 300 L/ha). Soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, maize nutrient accumulations, and yields were comprehensively analyzed at the maize maturity stage. RAE application significantly improved the following soil nutrients: dissolved organic carbon (10.40–25.92%), ammonium nitrogen (14.04–70.67%), nitrate nitrogen (14.80–78.63%), and available phosphorus (11.79–42.55%). Soil enzyme activities also increased: sucrase (12.38–30.25%), amidase (1.95–25.69%), peptidase (0.56–48.79%), β-1,4-N-acetylglucosaminidase (3.11–9.48%), protease (17.41–226.29%), and acid phosphatase (8.73–60.04%). These changes enhanced maize nitrogen (17.63–40.73%) and phosphorus (20.09–42.11%) uptake, increasing yield by 7.12–13.46%. Statistical analysis showed strong correlations between yields and nutrient accumulations (r = 0.82, p &lt; 0.01), particularly phosphorus (r = 0.91, p &lt; 0.001). RAE enhances crop productivity in degraded agricultural systems by improving soil nutrient availability and plant assimilation, making it a viable alternative to conventional fertilizers.

Integration of metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses reveals the effects of nano-selenium on pak choi

Selenium is an indispensable nutrient for plants, and optimizing selenium levels can enhance plant growth and metabolism, leading to improved yield and quality. In comparison to conventional inorganic or organic selenium fertilizers, nano-selenium demonstrates superior safety and enhanced biological activity, making it more suitable for crop production. Although nano-selenium fertilizer is extensively used in various crops, its application in pak choi remains limited. As a vital source of selenium, previous research on pak choi (Brassica chinensis var. pekinensis cv. 'Suzhouqing') has primarily focused on investigating physiological effects with limited exploration of the molecular mechanism. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of nano-selenium on pak choi through an integrated analysis of transcriptome and metabolome. Specifically, we examined the effects of different concentrations of nano-selenium (0, 5, 10 and 20 mg L−1) on the growth and nutritional quality of Suzhouqing. The findings revealed that a low concentration (5 mg L−1) of nano-selenium significantly increased leaf weight and total selenium content, while modulating primary metabolites such as soluble amino acids, proteins, sugars and ascorbic acid. Additionally, it influenced secondary metabolites including glucosinolates, phenolic acids and flavonoids. Consequently, this enhancement in growth performance and nutritional quality was attributed to the regulation of pathways involved in selenocompound metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and flavonoid biosynthesis by key enzymes such as methionine S-methyltransferase, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase, kynurenine-oxoglutarate transaminase, thioredoxin reductase, phenylalanine ammonian-lyase, 4-coumarate-CoA ligase, flavonoid 3’, 5'-hydroxylase, naringenin 3-dioxygenase, flavonol synthase and bifunctional dihydroflavonol 4-reductase. These results provide comprehensive insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the influence of nano-selenium on plant growth and nutritional quality. Therefore, they offer a solid theoretical basis and technical support for breeding and cultivation strategies aimed at producing selenium-rich pak choi.

Fertigation potentiality applying treated wastewater by partially saturated vertical flow wetland.

Fertigation potentiality applying treated wastewater by partially saturated vertical flow wetland.

Integrated enzyme activities and untargeted metabolome to reveal the mechanism that allow long-term biochar-based fertilizer substitution improves soil quality and maize yield.

Integrated enzyme activities and untargeted metabolome to reveal the mechanism that allow long-term biochar-based fertilizer substitution improves soil quality and maize yield.

Application of a practical methodology for the selection of suitable value chains to produce circular fertilisers from secondary raw materials.

The growing demand for food products, driven by a growing world population, has increased Europe's dependence on conventional fertilisers, which have a high impact on the environment. In the last decade, new circular fertiliser value chains have appeared as promising alternatives to conventional fertilisers. Because of the huge number of alternatives, this study aimed to develop a practical methodology that facilitates the analysis of data related to each value chain to identify and select the most promising circular fertiliser value chains to promote their wide-scale production and use in agriculture, replacing the dependence on conventional fertilisers in Europe. This methodology is based on two stages (funnelling process and scoring system) and considers the 16 criteria (e.g. technical viability, nutrient content, among others) defined in the study. The methodology was tested for 48 value chains identified during the mapping of secondary raw materials in Europe with the potential to be used as circular fertilisers, classifying them into seven different raw materials: urban wastewater (UWW), industrial wastewater (IWW), sewage sludge (SS), biowaste (BW), biological by-products (BBP), treated manure (TM), and digestate (DIG). The funnelling process is based on a GO/NO-GO approach that meets six criteria and allows the discarding of 18 value chains, from 30 to the second stage. The scoring system was a more complete analysis, including ten new scoring criteria. This system allowed the identification of the potential of the value chains analysed, concluding that struvite from UWW, struvite from IWW, stabilized sludge from SS, composted biowaste from BW, feather meal from BBP, solid fraction from DIG, and spent mushroom substrate from TM are the most promising options for agriculture. The develop methodology was used to evaluate 48 different value chains with the potential to generate promising circular fertlizers. Seven value chains were finally selected.

Effect of Foliar Application of Nano DAP on Yield and N, P and K Uptakes and Post Harvest Soil Nutrient Status of Finger Millet

The present study aimed to determine the effect of foliar application of Nano DAP on yield and N, P and K uptakes and post-harvest soil nutrient status of finger millet. Finger millet is mostly grown in poor and marginal soils under low to no input supply conditions. Adequate plant nutrient supply is required to explore the full yield potential of improved varieties. Nano DAP application through seedling treatment followed by foliar sprays efficiently meets the crop's need for phosphorus and nitrogen. A field experiment was carried out during rabi, 2023-24 at Agricultural Research Station, Vizianagaram. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with ten treatments viz., T1 : 100 % NPK , T2 : 100 % NPK + foliar spray of nano DAP at Tillering stage, T3 : 100 % NPK + foliar spray of nano DAP at PI stage, T4 : 100 % NPK + foliar spray of nano DAP each at Tillering and PI stage, T5 : 100 % NK only, T6 : T 5 + foliar spray of nano DAP each at Tillering and PI stage, T7 : T 5 + 50 % P + foliar spray of nano DAP each at Tillering and PI stage, T 8 : T 5 + 75 % P + foliar spray of nano DAP each at Tillering and PI stage, T9 : T5 + 75 % P + foliar spray of nano DAP at Tillering stage and T10 : T5 + 75 % P + foliar spray of nano DAP at PI stage. Results revealed that 100 % NPK + foliar spray of nano DAP @ 2.5 ml L-1 at Tillering and PI stage (T4) significantly enhanced the grain and straw yield, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents and uptakes of both grain and straw, post-harvest soil available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, however, this treatment remained at par with 100 % NK + 75 % P + foliar spray of nano DAP each at Tillering and PI stage (T8). Hence, 100 % NK + 75 % P + foliar spray of nano DAP each at the Tillering and PI stage (T8) can be regarded as the best treatment as it saves 25 % of conventional phosphorus fertilizers in addition to environmental safety.

Investigation of the Magnesium Content and Productivity of Wheat Genotypes Under Organic and Conventional Inorganic Fertilizer Application

This study investigates Mg concentrations and productivity in seven spring wheat genotypes (YR, Local, Sids 12, P3, P5, IC8, and IC17) by evaluating their nutritional content and their responses to organic and conventional fertilization methods. We employed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and observed that conventional fertilization resulted in higher Mg levels than organic fertilization (2.12 vs. 1.54 g kg−1). The application of conventional fertilizers also resulted in a higher shoot dry weight compared with the application of organic fertilizers (4.6 vs. 1.88 g), with Sids 12 recording the highest shoot dry weight (4.79 g), followed by YR (3.39 g). Furthermore, conventional fertilization consistently yielded a higher grain output than that of organic fertilization across both seasons. P5 and IC17 had superior grain yield and Mg content in grains, respectively. Wheat yields were lower under organic fertilization than under conventional practices. Some genotypes, such as YR and IC17, experienced significant yield reductions under organic conditions, whereas others, such as P5, displayed resilience or even enhanced yields. The IC17 genotype demonstrated minimal variation in Mg content in grains between conventional and organic fertilization, highlighting genotype-specific responses to fertilization methods. Thus, selecting and cultivating the appropriate genotype can facilitate achieving nutritionally adequate wheat production under organic farming conditions in Saudi Arabia.

Developing a Sustainable Business Model For Bio-Nano Fertilizers to Enhance Peatland Agriculture and Environmental Sustainability

Background: The utilization of bio-nano fertilizers derived from oil palm waste presents an innovative approach to sustainable agriculture, addressing both environmental concerns and soil fertility enhancement. Conventional fertilizers often contribute to soil degradation and pollution, highlighting the need for eco-friendly alternatives.Purpose: This study aims to develop a sustainable business model for bio-nano fertilizers by integrating economic feasibility, stakeholder perspectives, and nanotechnology applications.Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative research approach was employed, combining literature reviews and stakeholder interviews with representatives from government, academia, industry, and farming communities. A total of 12 key respondents were interviewed for this study. The Business Model Canvas (BMC) approach and framework were used to analyze key elements, such as mission, value propositions, key activities, key partnerships, key resources, channels, customer segments, customer relationships, cost structures, revenue streams, impact, and measurements.Findings/results: The results of this study indicate that bio-nano fertilizers made from micro-cellulose and micro-carbon provide potential benefits, such as increasing soil nutrients, controlling nutrient release, and reducing waste. The business model developed emphasizes cooperation strategies, a variety of distribution channels, and revenue streams, including product sales, licensing, and training services. Policy and regulatory support, research investment, and digital marketing integration are important to strengthen and expand the adoption of this bio-nano fertilizer innovation.Conclusion: Bio-nano fertilizers have a strong potential for commercialization, benefiting both agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. This study primarily focuses on business modeling and does not address scalability, long-term impacts, or policy interventions, as these require extensive field trials, multi-year assessments, and policy framework development. Future research should explore these aspects to facilitate broader adoption and sustainable implementation.Originality/value (state of the art): This study presents a novel business model integrating waste utilization, nanotechnology, and agribusiness sustainability, contributing to the discourse on green innovation and circular economy practices in agriculture. Keywords: bio-nano fertilizers, business model, nanotechnology, sustainable agriculture, oil palm waste

Aqueous compost extracts with stabilized biofertilizing microbiota promote plant root growth and drought resilience.

Aqueous compost extracts with stabilized biofertilizing microbiota promote plant root growth and drought resilience.

Magnetic Nanoparticles in Agriculture: Unraveling the Impact of Nickel Ferrite Nanoparticles on Peanut Growth and Seed Nutritional Quality.

Nanotechnology has been a source of innovation in various fields in recent years, and its application in agriculture has attracted much attention, particularly for its potential to enhance crop growth and optimize nutritional quality. This study systematically investigated the effects of nickel ferrite nanoparticles (NiFe2O4 NPs) on peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) growth, nutrient dynamics, and biochemical responses, highlighting their potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional fertilizers. The results showed that an optimum concentration of 50 mg/kg soil significantly improved photosynthetic efficiency, biomass accumulation, seed yield, and nutritional quality, with 1000 seed weight and total yield increasing by 12.3% and 15.6%, respectively. In addition, we hypothesized that NiFe2O4 NPs would activate the antioxidant system and increase plant resistance. According to the risk assessment, the target hazard quotient (THQ = 0.081) is well below the safety threshold of 1. These findings provide strong evidence for the application of NiFe2O4 NPs as next-generation nano-fertilizers, offering a dual advantage of improved agronomic performance and biosafety. However, further research is needed to optimize their application strategies and assess potential long-term environmental impacts.

Applying chemical and bio-mediated synthesis of manganese oxide nanoparticles for enhancing growth and nutrient fluxes in Arka anamika plants under saline conditions

The increasing demand for sustainable agriculture practices has led to advanced research on nano-biofertilizers, due to concerns regarding the detrimental effects of conventional fertilizers. Nanoscale delivery of nutrient flux enhances nutrient uptake and efficiency, fostering healthier plant growth. This study aims to synthesize bio-mediated manganese (III) oxide nano-fertilizers (BNPs) using a green method involving Phragmites karka extract and chemical synthesis of manganese (III) oxide nano-fertilizers (CNPs) to compare their impact on the growth performance of Arka anamika plants under 60 and 120 mM saline conditions. BNPs and CNPs were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) Spectrophotometry followed by eco-physiological analysis on nano-fertilizer treated A. anamika plant. BNPs demonstrated notable enhancements in root mass by 22.2% at 60 mM salt stress, leaf mass by 3.75-fold and shoot mass by 42% at 120 mM salinity. Plants treated with CNPs showed a substantial increase in plant height of 55% under 120 mM salinity stress. Chlorophyll levels increased by 18% in plants treated with BNPs under 120 mM salt stress, compared to a 16% increase observed with CNPs. Most chlorophyll fluorescence parameters were enhanced with biosynthesized nano-fertilizer compared to chemically synthesized. Bio-mediated nano-fertilizers demonstrated superior efficacy in enhancing the growth of A. anamika under saline conditions, aiming to improve food security and agricultural resilience to salinity.