Nanotechnology-based approaches for promoting horticulture crop growth, antioxidant response and abiotic stresses tolerance

Nanotechnology offers promising applications in agriculture and horticulture. Specifically, nanofertilizers (NFs) have been investigated for enhancing growth, antioxidant defense, and productivity in fruit-bearing plants. These crops are vital for supplying essential nutrients and minerals to humans. However, their production and quality often face challenges from various stresses. Using nanoparticles (NPs) can potentially mitigate these challenges, thereby improving the productivity and quality of horticulture crops. NPs possess unique chemical and physical properties that benefit plant growth, development, and stress tolerance, making them valuable for fruit crop enhancement. This review highlights recent advancements in employing nanoparticles to bolster fruit crop growth. Various nanoparticle types, such as metal oxide, metallic, carbon-based, and organic NPs have been demonstrated positive effects on plant abiotic stress tolerance growth and fruit quality. They have been found to boost nutrient absorption, neutralize free radicals, and activate plant stress response pathways, leading to enhanced quality and yield of fruit. This review aims to elucidate significant insights into the utilization of nanoparticles as a promising strategy for bolstering the resilience of horticultural plants and safeguarding food security in the face of environmental alterations. Notwithstanding the favorable outcomes observed in ameliorating plant performance under abiotic stresses, the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of NPs remain a subject of ongoing investigation. Further research is imperative to delve into the enduring implications, safety considerations, and optimal techniques for the application of NPs in horticultural plants.