Role of agrochemical-based nanomaterials in plants: biotic and abiotic stress with germination improvement of seeds

Nanotechnology has provided advancement opportunities in different fields of sciences related to plants such as agriculture. Plants are one of the most critical components of the ecosystem. Therefore, the perception of the behavior of plants in the presence of nanomaterials (NMs) plays an important role in achieving the goals of sustainable agriculture. NMs depending on physicochemical and structural properties show positive or negative effects on plants exposed to them. Additionally, plant effects can be affected differently from species to species. The interaction of the plant with NMs leads to an effect on the morphology and physiology of plant organs. Some NMs play a significant role in improving stresses. The concept of engineered nano-carriers may be a promising route to address difficult challenges in agriculture that could perhaps lead to an increase in crop production while reducing the environmental impact associated with crop protection and food production. Herein we comprehensively review the application ability of different NMs in the enhancement of seed germination and plant growth, as well as the role of NMs in combating plant biotic and abiotic stresses such as drought, salt, temperature, metal, UV–B radiation, and flooding. Furthermore, suitable strategies adopted by plants in presence of NMs under challenging environments are also being presented. Also, the efficiency of NMs in the seed priming approach to enhance seed germination was evaluated. In the last section of this review, the phytotoxicity of NMs is discussed. The details provided herein provide a step forward for the practical use of nanoparticles in agriculture. Ultimately, this leads nanotechnology to design inputs based on agricultural needs.