Unveiling the combined effect of nano fertilizers and conventional fertilizers on crop productivity, profitability, and soil well-being

It is widely accepted that deficiency of macro (nitrogen) and micronutrients (zinc, copper etc.) affects the plant growth development which cause a significant threat to crop production food security. The Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative (IFFCO) developed nano-urea (nano-N), nano-zinc (nano-Zn), nano-copper (nano-Cu) liquid fertilizer formulations enhance yields, simultaneously addressing nutrient deficiency, without causing toxicity. Therefore, this study was formulated evaluate effectiveness nano-N (nano-urea), nano-Zn, nano-Cu at varying N levels [0, 50, 75, 100% recommended rates nitrogen (RRN)] on maize-wheat pearl millet-mustard systems during 2019–20 2020–21. results exhibited application + nano-Zn with RRN significantly higher grain yields in maize (66.2–68.8%), wheat (62.6–61.9%), millet (57.1–65.4%), mustard (47.2–69.0%), respectively, over absolute control plots combinations three nano-fertilizers like applied plots. This mainly attributed Zn uptake by crops. However, 75% also produced comparable yields. Thus, applying via foliar applications, conjunction conventional urea, has potential reduce required amount up 25%, while maintaining equivalent yield levels. Similarly, registered profitability, soil mineral N, dehydrogenase activity (DHA), microbial biomass carbon (SMBC), both years. further research field trials nano fertilizers alone or combination are essential fully unlock its benefits ascertain long-term effects may offer pathway more efficient eco-friendly nourishment.