A Review on Nano Herbicides: The Future of Weed Management

Weeds pose significant challenges to global agricultural productivity, with India alone experiencing annual losses of $11 billion due to weed infestations, despite the extensive use of herbicides. The drawbacks of conventional herbicide formulations contribute to their suboptimal performance. Rotating herbicides and use of appropriate mixtures are two key approaches to suppress the weed floral shift and resistance development to herbicide in weeds. Doubts persist regarding the effectiveness of these herbicides, prompting the exploration of more efficient control methods. Using lower amounts of herbicides is preferred because it decreases the lasting impact of herbicide residues in agricultural regions and their environmental toxicity. Nano herbicides can facilitate the efficient transport of herbicides to weed plants, thereby minimizing the buildup of residues in the soil. Nanotechnology emerges as a promising avenue for herbicide development, offering 'Smart herbicides' with heightened effectiveness and reduced application volumes. Nano herbicides employ innovative mechanisms, effectively depleting weed seed banks, degrading germination inhibitors, and facilitating gradual herbicide release. Techniques like damaging weed pollen grains and utilising carbon nanotubes demonstrate inventive approaches to seed bank depletion. Controlled release formulations ensure prolonged and efficient weed suppression while minimising environmental impact. Moreover, incorporating metal ions accelerates herbicide residue degradation, mitigating environmental persistence. Enhanced plant growth with nano herbicide application emphasizes their potential as sustainable weed control solutions. However, further research is essential to ensure their safety and efficacy before widespread adoption in commercial agriculture, addressing potential risks associated with their application. Introducing nano herbicides signifies a significant advancement in sustainable weed management practices, promising a future where agricultural productivity can be safeguarded against weed infestations.