Efficiency of Nano-silicon Coated Urea with Various Fertilizing Techniques on Maize (Zea mays L.) Performance and Nitrogen Content

Environmental deterioration and nitrogen (N) losses are closely interrelated. In the realm of nitrogenous fertilizers, urea holds a prominent position due to its unique characteristics and high N content. While urea is valued for its ease of application, excessive use often leads to significant losses through leaching and volatilization. Coating urea with biodegradable materials offers a potential solution by enabling the steady release of N. In recent years, nanotechnology has been employed in various ways to coat urea, improving its efficiency. With the dimensions of nano-fertilizers and N losses in mind, a field experiment was conducted at the Soil Fertility Research Institute (SFRI) in Tandojam, Pakistan. The study investigated the effects of nano-silicon (nSi)-coated urea on the growth, N uptake, and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of maize plants. Nano-Si was used as a urease inhibitor with urea (160 kg N ha⁻¹) and combined with different coating materials, namely vegetable oil and palm stearin, to assess binding reliability. Two fertilization application techniques broadcasting and placement were also evaluated. The highest agronomic performance was observed when nSi-coated urea with palm stearin was applied, while coating with vegetable oil was less effective but still outperformed broadcast urea. NUE and N uptake were significantly improved when nSi and urea were combined, compared to other treatments. Additionally, plants demonstrated the ability to utilize nano-Si, a sustainable byproduct derived from rice husks. The overall findings of this study are promising and provide valuable insights for future strategies to enhance nitrogen use efficiency while mitigating environmental degradation.