Role of Green-Synthesized Selenium Nanoparticles in Regulating Growth Performance, Physiochemical Traits, and Antioxidant Profiles of Capsicum annuum

Abstract Nanoparticles have become integral in various aspects of agricultural practices, including the development of nano-fertilizers for optimized crop nutrition. This study aimed to explore the effects of foliar application of Allium sativum mediated SeNPs at various doses including (15, 30, 45, and 60 mg/L) on plant growth. The focus is on assessing their impact on germination, morpho-physiological, biochemical, and antioxidant profile of three Capsicum annuum varieties (Megma-F1, Sky-7, and AS-8282). The SeNPs were characterized through ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared, and scanning electron microscopy. Different plant growth physiological, biochemical, and antioxidant traits were analyzed. The results indicate that the highest germination rate was 80% for Megma-F1, with an 84% rise in SVI reported in Sky-7 at 60 mg/L. Megma-F1 and Sky-7 showed one-fold increases in chl a content, while AS-8282 had a three-fold increase in chl b level. The highest TFC and TPC contents were 38.25 mg/g and 26.2 mg/g for Megma-F1 and AS-8282, respectively, while marginal variations were found for SSC and TPC. The highest DPPH radical scavenging activity recorded was 74% and ABTS with 76% for AS-8282 at 60 mg/L. It was concluded that both treatments have a positive impact on plant growth. The research contributes to evolving the field of agri-nanotechnology emphasizing the importance of nanoparticle concentration positively influencing plant performance, paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices.