Nanofertilizers in Vermicompost: Revolutionizing Plant Productivity in Nutrient-Depleted Soils

Abstract

Soil nutrient deficiency is a major barrier to sustainable agriculture, affecting crop quality and yield. Conventional fertilizers have limitations in terms of nutrient uptake efficacy and environmental sustainability. On the other hand, recent advances in nanotechnology have opened exciting possibilities for overcoming these drawbacks. Nanofertilizers have distinct properties, such as controlled release processes and increased nutrient availability, which can significantly improve plant nutrient uptake. This chapter delves into the intriguing topic of nanofertilizers and their applications in vermicomposting systems. In this chapter, we discuss the synthesis of nanofertilizers, the characterization process, and mechanisms of action, with an emphasis on the potential to overcome the limitations of traditional fertilizers. Additionally, we investigate their impact on the soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and plant growth, with a particular emphasis on their efficacy in nutrient-depleted soils. Overall, this chapter aims to understand the role of nanofertilizer's in increasing the productivity of plants in nutrient-depleted soils. © 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.