Physiological Effects of Nanoparticles Prepared from Banana Peel Extract and Nickel Oxide on Strawberry Plants

Nanoparticles have unique physical and chemical properties due to their small size, allowing them to exhibit unexpected optical, chemical, and physical characteristics. The present study aimed to investigate the physiological effects of nanoparticles biologically synthesized from banana peel extract and nickel oxide on the strawberry plant (Fragaria ananassa). Banana peel extract was prepared and subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening. Nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONPs)were biologically synthesized by combining banana peel extract with a nickel oxide precursor and capping agent. Various techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy(SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, were employed to characterize the synthesized NiONPs. Different concentrations (10, 20, and 30% designated as N1, N2, and N3, respectively) of NiONPs were made, and their effects on strawberry plants were evaluated. The results of the characterization confirmed the production of NiONPs. Among the different concentrations, N2 demonstrated the most favorable results for seedling leaf length, leaf width, and the number of unripe fruits. However, N2 outperformed in the number of ripe fruits, number of leaves, and number of flowers. Notably, N1 had the highest concentration of DNA (134.7 ng/µL), while N2 had the best DNA purity. Furthermore, the N3 had the highest chlorophyll content. The findings of the study revealed that novel nanoparticles could be effectively produced from banana peel extract and nickel oxide. The optimal concentration of 20% NiONPs produced the best strawberry plants, while the highest chlorophyll content in strawberry leaves was obtained with the 30% concentration.