Impact of Nano-Fertilizers and Modified Indigenous Minerals on Biomass Accumulation, Root Growth, and Soil Parameters in Wheat

Preparation and utilization of modified indigenous mineral product (MIMP) in tandem with nano fertilizers as an alternative to the recommended practices. The study involved three sources of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in horizontal factors and four sources of nitrogen (N) in vertical factors including control, organized in strip plot. MIMP is a multinutrient source. Dry matter accumulation was comparable for three horizontal factors; for basal + 2 sprays of nano urea (NU) and recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN). Root length density, surface area density and dry weight were 20-21%, 14-19% and 25-29% higher, respectively with application of MIMP along with nano diammonium phosphate (nano DAP) or nano potassium (nano K) as compared to the recommended P & K. Significant population of bacteria (73-74 ×10⁵ CFU g^-1 soil), and actinomycetes (49.7-49.8 ×10⁵ CFU g^-1 soil); dehydrogenase, alkaline and acid phosphatase activity were reported with MIMP + nanofertilizers. Comparable values of microbial population, and enzymatic activities were reported with basal application + 2 sprays of NU and RDN. Available N, sulphur and Silicon (Si) were significantly higher with application of MIMP, whereas P and K were higher with application of respective nano formulations. Except Si, available nutrients were significantly more with basal + 2 sprays of NU and RDN over other treatments. The findings provide an insight into use of indigenous minerals and nano fertilizers as an alternative to the existing nutrient management for better soil health, nutrient availability and yield paving way for sustainable agriculture practices.