Tri-Metallic Ferrite TiO2–Al2O3–ZnFe2O4 Nanocomposites Priming Promoted Growth of Raphanus sativus L. and Regulated Oxidative Stress in a Concentration-Dependent Manner

Nanocomposites are supposed to be recommended over nanoparticles while promoting antioxidant potential and growth, however, they need validation. Most recently, hydroponic exposure to a higher 625 µg/mL concentration of TiO2–Al2O3–ZnFe2O4 nanocomposites (TM-NC) was documented to promote the growth of cucumber. Given this, the present study documents the positive effect of only 50 µg/mL of tri-metallic ferrite nanocomposites (TM-NC) on radish (Raphanus sativus L.) via nanopriming. The plants were morphologically and biochemically superior to the control, as well as radish primed with other tested concentrations of TM-NC. TM-NC enhanced root growth induced an increment in the shoot elongation, which considerably enhanced the chlorophyll a, b, and carotenoid content of radish by 28, 156, and 12%. Moreover, the carbohydrate and protein levels were increased by 67 and 29% in 50 µg/mL TM-NC priming than the control. The TM-NC mediated increment in flavonoid, total phenolics, and SOD, CAT, and APX enzyme activities significantly enhanced the antioxidant potential of radish than control, thus regulating the amount of MDA and H2O2 and mitigating the oxidative stress. Therefore, 50 µg/mL of TM-NC promoted radish growth, thus indicating its potential role as a nano-fertilizer.