Sustainable nano-interventions to enhance crop yield, anthocyanin content, and marketability of onion (Allium cepa)

Abstract

Our reliance on synthetic agrochemicals has detrimental effects on the environment and living species. To restore the ecological balance, we need to explore strategies to minimize agrochemicals’ use without compromising agricultural production. Nano-formulations help lower dosages of agrochemicals, leading to the emergence of nano-agriculture. Judicious use of nanomaterials for enhancing plant metabolic performance and yield remains a challenge. Here, we have achieved the same by root treatment of the onion crop with nanopyrite (FeS2) and further organic goat manure fertilizer application. We report an increase in yield through root treatment with nano-pyrite plus soil application of goat dropping (Test) as compared to the use of goat dropping alone (Control). The total biomass of the test sample was 4.75 kg (n=86), while control samples weighed 3.5 kg (n=86). The total bulb weight for the control and test was 2.6 kg and 3.6 kg, respectively. We observed a yield-boosting effect of root treatment with nanopyrite in onion. There is a significant increase in the anthocyanin content in test bulbs and flavonol content in test leaves. We have integrated two types of farming systems: organic and nano-agriculture to bolster the metabolic fitness of the onion (Allium cepa) and achieve sustainable food production.

Nano‐pyrite as a plant hormone regulator: Emulating seed hormopriming

“…Nano FeS 2 preparation utilises the poly‐sulphide method described in our previous studies 25–27 . Briefly, 100 mL of 0.8 M NaOH solution was divided into two equal parts.…”

“…Further, the oil bath temperature was raised to 180°C for another 2 h. Then, the nanoparticle suspension was allowed to settle down and was sequentially washed with hydrochloric acid, toluene, and acetone. The nanomaterial was stored in a desiccator until used 8–16,25–27 …”

“…Notably, nano pyrite also positively impact root nodule formation in chickpeas, thereby enhancing the plant's inherent nitrogen‐fixing capability by emulating nitrogenase enzyme 13 . Interestingly, treating seedling with nano pyrite at the root level has been shown to increase yields in vegetables (chili, cabbage, cauliflower, tomato, onion) and flowers (marigold) 15,25–27 …”