Effect of nano-urea and nano-DAP on growth and yield of mustard (Brassica juncea): A review

Abstract

In rainfed and resource-constrained environments, mustard (Brassica juncea), a crucial oilseed crop in South Asia, frequently has inadequate nitrogen availability and ineffective fertilizer application. The development of nano fertilizers, particularly nano-urea and nano-diammonium phosphate (nano-DAP), provides a revolutionary solution to these problems. In contrast to traditional fertilizers, nano-formulations increase the efficiency of nutrient utilization, lower environmental losses, and encourage sustainable crop production intensification. Research on the impacts of nano-urea and nano-DAP on mustard development, physiological characteristics, yield attributes, and nutrient dynamics, conducted between 2010 and 2024, is critically examined in this study. Even at lower nitrogen dosages, nano-urea has demonstrated a steady improvement in vegetative growth, chlorophyll content, nitrogen assimilation, and seed output while reducing nitrous oxide emissions and nitrate leaching. Despite being less researched, nano-DAP has shown promise in enhancing seed quality, siliqua formation, and phosphorus uptake. The effectiveness and soil health of nano-fertilizers are further improved by combining them with micronutrients and biofertilizers. Research gaps concerning long-term effects, microbial interactions, dose optimization, and field-level scalability are also identified in the report. All things considered, nano-fertilizers are a potential new development in sustainable mustard farming that calls for more field testing, legislative backing, and farmer-centered extension initiatives.