Review of research and innovation on novel fertilizers for crop nutrition
Abstract Responsible plant nutrition requires innovation to improve nutrient use efficiency across diverse agricultural systems. This review highlights nanofertilizers, biofertilizers, and next-generation enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, examining nutrient-release mechanisms, yield impacts, environmental outcomes, and commercialization challenges. However, limited field data and standardized testing hinder progress. To advance fertilizer research, investments in shared protocols, global research networks, and pre-competitive studies are essential to close knowledge gaps, ensure food security, and reduce environmental harm.
Authors
- Achim Dobermann (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5728-5594)
- Tai McClellan Maaz (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4776-1769)
- Allison M. Thomson (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5326-1755)
- Sarah E. Lyons (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5091-8926)
Institutions
- University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (US)
- The Fertilizer Institute (US)
- National Institute of Food and Agriculture (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- npj Sustainable Agriculture
- Published
- 2025-05-10
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1038/s44264-025-00066-0
- Citations
- 20
- Primary Topic
- Plant Growth Enhancement Techniques
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 35.00
Funders
- Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research