Nanotechnology in Ornamentals: Current Trends and Future Aspects

Nanotechnology uses atomic-scale particles with a diameter of 1–100 nm. This technology is frequently employed in agriculture due to its ability to penetrate and move throughout plant cells. The floriculture industry is economically governed by the postharvest life of the floriculture plants. The postharvest life is greatly hampered by the petal abscission and senescence which primarily result from microbial growth in the xylem vessels of the flower stem and high ethylene production in the floral organs. To mitigate postharvest losses, various strategies have been employed, like using chemicals against microbes and pests. In recent years, the floriculture sector has witnessed revolution in the implementation of nanotechnology because of its capacity to augment floriculture output and mitigate postharvest wastage. Owing to the antibacterial properties of nanoparticles, they are of great importance for postharvest management of many cut flowers for extending the vase life of cut flowers. Nanopesticides improve pest control efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Nanofertilizers, on the other hand, use nanomaterials to improve nutrient delivery, increase nutrient absorption by plants, and promote more sustainable and efficient crop production. These technologies have the potential to transform agriculture by delivering inputs in a targeted and regulated manner, hence improving resource efficiency.