The synthesized graphene quantum dots (GQDs) by liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) method using sonication were structurally characterized by XRD, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fast Fourier transform (FFT). The quantum dots were characterized optically by UV–vis spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. TEM analysis indicated size, shape, and crystalline nature. The optical properties reveal the light blue luminescent nature of GQDs and an energy gap of approximately 3.086 eV, confirmed by the Effective Mass Approximation (EMA) model. The prepared GQDs featuring hydrophobicity may be the amide groups are evenly functionalized with graphene quantum dots which significantly enhances moisture stability. Sustainable agriculture is an important concept to address the increased need for adequate and safe food and the ongoing environmental degradation associated with conventional farming practices. Nanomaterials are being developed in agriculture to improve the growth rate and protect plants. Here we report the studies to increase the growth rate of seeds used in our daily nutrition by treating that with 0.1 mg/ml and 0.2 mg/ml of GQDs for 3 h before planting. The GQDs-treated seeds were observed to increase the growth rate in these plants including leaves, and roots which opens up the possibility of using GQDs as a plant growth regulator that can be used in a variety of other food crops for high yields.