Efficacious Role of Biogenically Synthesized Silica Nanoparticles for Promoting Growth and Reducing Leaching in Wheat

ABSTRACT Introduction Silicon, as a nutrient, has been widely studied for its role as a nano‐fertilizer and in other innovative agricultural applications. The increasing use of silica nanoparticles (Si‐NPs) in advanced research across multiple disciplines highlights their broad usefulness in various scientific and technological fields. Despite being a well‐studied nutrient, there have been relatively few investigations into its application under optimal conditions and the effects of nutrient leaching in soil. Materials and Methods In this study, Si‐NPs were biogenically synthesized from rice straw and were characterized using DLS, XRD, FTIR, and FE‐SEM. The effectiveness of Si‐NPs in wheat plants was examined by assessing their impact on morphological, biochemical, and yield‐related parameters, as well as enzymatic activities and silica leaching in soil. Wheat plants were treated with different concentrations of Si‐NPs foliar spray (30, 60, 90, and 120 mg L −1 ). Results Spherical and agglomerated amorphous Si‐NPs with a hydrodynamic diameter of 132.1 ± 30.37 nm and an average particle size of 36.88 ± 3.70 nm were obtained. Zeta potential values of −36.9 ± 5.29 mV showed good dispersion stability. Among all foliar treatments, plants treated with 60 mg L −1 showed the best results, with statistically significant improvements in plant height, biomass, photosynthetic pigments, protein content, microflora, and yield metrics. Si‐NPs also enhanced silica absorption from soil, resulting in reduced leaching. The yield per pot of plants treated with 60 mg L −1 Si‐NPs was 19.71 g, significantly higher (377.24%) than the control yield per pot of 4.13 g. However, higher doses of Si‐NPs (90 and 120 mg L −1 ) were phytotoxic and showed detrimental effects. The findings of our study highlight the capability of biosynthesized Si‐NPs to act as a bio‐stimulant that improves crop productivity and lays a foundation for subsequent research on dose optimization and sustainable agricultural practices.