Foliar applications of nanomaterials and their effects on microbes on the plant surface and the transformation of nanomaterials within plants and their tissues

Abstract

Foliar spray of engineered nanoparticles, nanosensors, nano pesticides, nanocarriers, and nano fertilizers is gradually being employed in the agricultural industry. As compared to conventional soil-root applications, foliar delivery of nanoparticles enhances the potency of crop protection strategies and shows various advantages if shows various advantages if is rapidly absorbed by plants, minimally shows impacts on soil health as well, and it is more cost-effective. This study mainly explored the interactions between the microbial communities on the plant surface (phyllosphere) and the foliar-applied nanomaterials, as well as the translocation and transformation of these nanomaterials within plant tissues. Nanomaterials can effectively change the activity and composition of phyllosphere microbes, efficiently affect the beneficial microbes, as well as destroy pathogenic communities. However, after intruding into the plant, nanomaterials may undergo various metabolic pathways, which impact the physiology of plants as well as influence their bioactivity. These biochemical routes or modifications can affect the secondary metabolite production, nutrient availability, as well as overall health of the plant. © 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.