Abstract

The application of nanotechnology in agriculture has introduced nano-fertilizers as sustainable and efficient alternatives to conventional chemical inputs. Among these, nano-structured plant growth regulators (PGRs) have shown great promise due to their enhanced bioavailability, targeted delivery, and reduced environmental toxicity. These nanomaterials not only improve soil nutrient dynamics but also significantly influence plant physiology, leading to improved growth, stress resistance, and enhanced phytochemical profiles. Specifically, nano-enabled PGRs have improved the yield and composition of essential oils in the cultivation of aromatic and therapeutic plants like Ocimum basilicum (basil). Basil is widely valued for its therapeutic properties and is a key species in the essential oil industry. The effects of several nano-structured PGRs on basil development have been studied using randomized complete block design (RCBD), with essential oil profiling conducted using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Significant differences between treatments have been confirmed by statistical techniques such as ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test. This review synthesizes current research on the use of nano-PGRs in basil, emphasizing their potential to enhance both agronomic performance and secondary metabolite production. The findings support the integration of nanotechnology into sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in high-value crops where essential oil quality and yield are critical.

Keywords

Nano fertilizers, Plant growth regulators, Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Essential oil yield, Nanocarriers, Sustainable agriculture, GC-MS analysis,

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References

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