Boosting Agronomic Yields with Metallic Nano-Fertilizers: An Effective Approach for Sustainable Agricultural Development

Agronomy stands as one of the most substantial and vital industries in the world, hence taking measures to increase production levels of crops is pivotal for human health of a country's population and economy. To provide a sufficient and consistent food supply, it is necessitated to use productive and efficient agriculture practices. Nanotechnology dispensed a revolutionary approach to agronomy by enhancing the accessibility of metal ions to the plants. The high surface area-to-volume ratio and compact size of nanoparticles allow them to efficiently improve the nutrient uptake by plants. Micronutrient salts used in conventional fertilizers generally disrupt soil pH balance, a nutrient availability that potentially harms plant health. Also, overutilization of these salts leads to nutrient imbalances or antagonistic interactions with other nutrients and harms the surrounding ecosystems. Interestingly, bio-extract-based metal nanoparticles are intended to support sustainable agricultural practices. Plant, fungal, and bacterial extracts, which are utilized in nano-fertilizers, contain active substances, including phytochemicals, aromatic compounds, vitamins, and minerals. These compounds aid in promoting growth which could benefit the wellbeing and output of plants. Further, nanoparticles can also help to improve soil fertility and slowdown soil deterioration by retaining nutrients, water, and soil structure. This review examines the potential of nanoparticles as an alternative micronutrient source, exploring on several metallic nano-fertilizers and advocating their eco-friendly approach to enhance agricultural practices on food crops.