Nanofertilizers: application, uptake, positive and negative impact on plant growth and yield

Abstract

Nanotechnology has been used in different areas such as health and agriculture depending on nanotechnology production with increasing demands. With this technology, nanoparticles (NPs) have been developed and gradually started to play important roles in agriculture and plant nutrition under controlled conditions. These NPs have many advantages compared to traditional fertilizers. So, nanofertilizers increase crop productivity, improve nutrient uptake, and reduce the use of agrochemicals besides applications of the novel, bio-compatibles, relatively low toxic/nontoxic conjugates, eco-friendly and more effective solutions. In this chapter, the properties of NPs, applications in agriculture as nanofertilizers, the uses forms of plants, and positive and negative impacts on plant growth parameters and yield properties were discussed. Generally, NPs such as TiO2, FeO, Ag, and Ni showed positive or negative effects on the quantitative and quality properties of different plant species in agriculture. In addition, combinations of nanofertilizers with chemical fertilizers showed positive effects on plant growth properties. In conclusion, it was deduced that the development and adoption of NPs can contribute to more sustainable and efficient farming practices, leading to increased food security and environmental sustainability. © 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.