INFLUENCE OF EXOGENOUS IRON AND ZINC NANOPARTICLES ON SUGARCANE (SACCHARUM OFFICINARUM L.) BUD NODE GERMINATION AND GROWTH

Abstract

Nanoparticles (NPs) are characterized by their unique shape, size, reactivity, and surface area, offering significant benefits to agriculture as nano-fertilizers, nano-insecticides, and nano-herbicides. This experiment investigated the potential of Iron and Zinc nanoparticles to promote the sprouting and growth of sugarcane budnodes. Conducted in March 2022 at the University of Sargodha's College of Agriculture, Pakistan, the study employed a completely randomized design with three replications. Sugarcane budnodes were treated with control, Iron NPs, and Zinc NPs at concentrations of 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg L⁻¹. Results indicated that the tallest shoots emerged at 100 mg L⁻¹ of Iron NPs and 50 mg L⁻¹ of Zinc NPs. Maximum plant height was observed first at 50 mg L⁻¹ of Iron NPs, then at 100 mg L⁻¹, and at 50 mg L⁻¹ of Zinc NPs. High Zinc concentrations (75 and 100 mg L⁻¹) in NPs were associated with minimum shoot length and plant height. Enhanced root fresh weight was noted with 75 mg L⁻¹ Iron NPs and 25 mg L⁻¹ Zinc NPs. Nanoparticle addition resulted in a heavier root system. Fresh and dry shoot weights were highest with 100 mg L⁻¹ of Iron NPs. However, increasing Zinc NP content to 100 mg L⁻¹ decreased both wet and dry weights of sugarcane buds and root length. The highest root-to-shoot ratio was achieved with 50 mg L⁻¹ Zinc NPs and the standard protocol. In conclusion, exogenous application of Zinc and Iron NPs at 50 to 100 mg L⁻¹ enhanced sugarcane budnode germination, growth, and development.