Teosinte crop growth, productivity and nutritive value as affected by NPK nano-fertilizers compared to conventional fertilizers

Abstract

NPK Nano fertilizers have the best effects of promoting nutrient absorption, so it has the potential to produce excellent fertilizers. (NPK.) The current study assessed the effects of fertilizer compositions, nano and conventional NPK, on the forage quality, and growth of two teosinte varieties, (Gemmeiza 3, and Gemmeiza 4) aiming to identify sustainable options that enhance agricultural performance while reducing environmental impact. A split-plot design with three replicates was used in the field trial. The main plots representing varieties and sub-plots included five fertilizers treatments, i.e., F1: 100% conventional fertilizers, F2: 75% conventional fertilizers + 25% Nano particle fertilizers; F3: 50% conventional fertilizers + 50% Nano particle fertilizers; F4: 25% conventional fertilizers + 75% Nano particle fertilizers and F5: 100% Nano particle fertilizers during 2022 and 2023 seasons. Results revealed that Gemmeiza 4 variety exhibited superior growth performance and nutritional composition compared to Gemmeiza 3. Furthermore, F3 treatment resulted in improved plant height (112.9,126.2 and 103.2 cm across the three cuts), stem diameter, dry matter accumulation, and leaf area. The F3 treatment also enhanced fiber digestibility, while F1 fertilizer produced high protein (69.1 and 68.7) in the first and second seasons respectively. Plants treated with nanoparticles showed 100% genomic template stability (GTS), indicating the crucial role in maintaining genetic stability. These findings suggest that combining nano-fertilizers with conventional fertilizers, as in the F3 mixture, can enhance teosinte growth and forage quality. This highlights the importance of both nano and conventional NPK fertilizers in achieving sustainable agricultural outcomes