Plant-derived green nanomaterials: From biosynthesis to biocompatible applications in sustainable agriculture

Traditional nanotechnology, relying on chemical reagents, generating ecological residues, and showing limited compatibility with plant physiology, faces challenges in meeting the requirements of green and sustainable agriculture. Plant-derived green nanomaterials have therefore emerged as an environmentally friendly alternative. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in their synthesis, focusing on three strategies: plant extract-mediated reduction, agricultural waste-templated synthesis, and plant metabolism-guided in situ synthesis. The differences in plant species, tissues, and metabolic components can influence the formation and regulation of nanomaterials, while plant-derived components participate in reduction, nucleation, growth, and stabilization, contributing to the formation of plant-derived interfacial structures. A multidimensional characterization framework tailored to plant systems is proposed, integrating indicators and methodologies for structural evaluation and biosafety assessment. The mechanisms underlying their roles in seed germination regulation, precise nutrient delivery, and the enhancement of plant stress resistance are systematically categorized and discussed. The ecological implications of their environmental transformation, persistence, and biocompatibility are discussed. Future directions focus on artificial intelligence, value‑added agricultural waste utilization, and full life‑cycle performance evaluation. Overall, this review provides theoretical and practical guidance for advancing plant‑derived green nanotechnology toward sustainable agriculture, food security, and ecological security.