Scope of nanotechnology in allelopathic weed management

Crop production depends on the management of agricultural systems [fertilizers, irrigation and pests (Weeds, diseases, insects)]. Weeds cause one-third yield losses in crops. The indiscriminate use of herbicides for weed control has resulted in development of herbicide-resistant weeds, pollutes water resources and environment and adversely affects human health. Allelochemicals released from the plants may be used as bioherbicides to manage the weeds. The less persistence of allelochemicals in the soil environment limits their use in weed control. Encapsulation of allelochemicals in the nano-carriers protects them from external factors, thus improves the stability, longevity and availability of allelochemicals in the soil. The nano-carrier system includes nanocapsules, nanospheres, nanogels and hydrogels, nanoformulations, nano-emulsions, nanofibers, metal-organic frameworks, and more. This review provides information about the encapsulation of allelochemicals to control weeds