Abstract
Nanoparticles are seeing increased use within the agricultural sector in areas such as fertilizers, pesticides, biosensors, and soil amendments. There are many advantages to using nanomaterials in agriculture, including the ability to achieve targeted delivery of nutrients or pesticides, which can reduce application rates. This has benefits in terms of efficacy and cost. However, the longer-term effects of nanoparticles in the environment are only just being explored. In this regard, the challenge arises from the diversity of nanoparticles available and the massive variation in their properties that depend not only on their composition but also on their size, shape, porosity, and functionalization. Understanding how nanomaterials interact with plants and soils is imperative to increasing their efficacy and minimizing their environmental impact. Determining the fate of nanoparticles in the agricultural environment must also be considered for their safe and effective use. This review focuses on the application of nanoparticles to crops and horticulture.