Effect of Mimosa pigra conjugated zinc nanoparticles on seed germination and seedlings growth of Solanum lycopersicum

Zinc plays a vital role as a micronutrient in plant development, but its low availability in soil often hampers crop yield.Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are gaining attention as an effective substitute for traditional zinc fertilisers, due to their improved solubility and efficient nutrient delivery.In the present study, ZnO NPs synthesised through an eco-friendly method using Mimosa pigra leaf extract were evaluated for their effects on the germination and early growth of tomato seeds.Characterised at 81 nm, the ZnO NPs significantly influence growth parameters.Under controlled laboratory conditions, the impact of varying concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles (ranging from 0 to 1000 ppm) on seedling development was assessed.The findings indicated that ZnO NPs had a notable effect on several growth-related traits.Statistical analysis of root length indicated that the differences between the treatments were highly significant (P < 0.0001, F = 20.64), with the 1, 5 and 10 ppm treatments resulting in significantly greater root length than the control group (48.22 24.19, 55.76 29.71, 63.26 24.14 mm vs 35.97 28.97 mm respectively).The seed vigour index was highest at a concentration of 10 ppm, and statistical analysis revealed highly significant differences between treatments (P < 0.0001, F = 36.81),with the 10 ppm treatment showing a significantly higher seed vigour index than the control group (73.64 mm% vs 31.14 mm% respectively).The findings suggest that 10 ppm of green-synthesised ZnO NPs from M. pigra can act as a nano-nutrient source and positively impact the growth and development of tomato seedlings.Beyond 10 ppm, growth declines, likely due to induced stress responses.The present article showcases the positive effects of M. pigra-synthesised ZnO NPs on tomatoes, offering an eco-friendly approach to boosting crop productivity.