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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 12 No. sp4 (2025): Recent Advances in Agriculture by Young Minds - III

Nano-powered maize revolution: enhancing yield and sustainability through synergistic application of nano-fertilizers for food security

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.9355
Submitted
7 May 2025
Published
04-12-2025

Abstract

The global agricultural sector faces mounting challenges from climate change, population growth and resource depletion. This study explores the potential of nano-fertilizers to improve maize productivity in India. Field experiments were conducted during the Kharif seasons of 2021-22 in Karnataka. The study compared various combinations of conventional fertilizers with foliar applications of nano-nitrogen and nano-phosphorus. Results revealed significant improvements in maize yield and yield components following nano-fertilizer treatments. The highest yield (6612 kg/ha) was achieved with 75 % of the Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF) plus two foliar sprays of nano-nitrogen and nano-phosphorus, surpassing conventional fertilizer application (5741 kg/ha). Nano-fertilizer treatments enhanced growth parameters, including plant height, leaf area and dry matter accumulation. Yield components such as cob length, grain weight and kernel number per cob showed notable improvements. The synergistic application of nano-fertilizers with conventional fertilizers shows promising for optimizing nutrient use efficiency and reducing environmental impact. This study underscores the promise of nano-fertilizers in transforming maize cultivation, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices by minimizing pollution and resource depletion. The findings suggest that integrating nano-fertilizers into mainstream agricultural practices could significantly contribute to food security and environmental sustainability in India. 

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