Unlocking higher productivity and nutrient use efficiency in cereals through nano-fertilizers

The rapid increase in global demand for cereals has led to excessive use of conventional fertilizers. While these fertilizers enhance crop yields, they are also associated with environmental degradation, soil and water pollution, and health concerns. In response to these issues, nanotechnology has been introduced as a revolutionary approach in agriculture, offering improvements through advanced practices. Nano-fertilizers, including nano NPK, nano iron, HAP-modified urea nanoparticles, and nano zeolite composite fertilizers, have been studied for their potential benefits. This review examines the application of these nano-fertilizers in three major cereal crops—wheat, maize, and rice. The comparative studies reveal that the biological yield of wheat can be increased by 20–55 ​%, maize by 20–40 ​%, and rice by 13–25 ​% with the use of nano-fertilizers. Furthermore, the overall grain yield of wheat has been found to increase by 20–55 ​%, maize by 22–50 ​%, and rice by 30–40 ​%. It is emphasized that careful management of nano-fertilizer concentrations is essential to avoid any adverse effects on plant health. The review highlights the significant improvements in cereal productivity and nutrient use efficiency offered by nano-fertilizers as a sustainable alternative to conventional methods along with limitations and way forward.