Summary
This narrative review examines the multifaceted mechanisms by which nanoparticles influence plant growth, nutrient uptake, and soil functioning. The authors synthesise evidence on direct nanoparticle–plant interactions alongside indirect effects on soil properties and microbial communities in the rhizosphere, aiming to provide a comprehensive reference for the agricultural application of functionalized nanoparticles. The review acknowledges diverse and sometimes distinct mechanisms of action across different nanoparticle types and soil–plant systems.
UK applicability
The findings have potential relevance to UK agriculture as climate-driven resource scarcity and sustainability pressures increase, though applicability would depend on field validation under UK soil and climatic conditions. Current UK organic standards and environmental regulations would require careful assessment of nanoparticle safety and persistence before agricultural adoption.
Key measures
Plant growth responses; nutrient absorption rates; soil physicochemical property changes; rhizosphere microbial community composition and structure
Outcomes reported
This review synthesises evidence on how nanoparticles modulate plant growth through direct plant interactions and indirect effects on soil physicochemical properties and rhizosphere microbial community structure. The paper examines mechanisms by which functionalized nanoparticles influence nutrient absorption in plants and alter soil–microbe interactions.
Topic tags
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