Biodegradable nanoparticle technology may improve agricultural production
Farmers use a manufactured version of a natural plant hormone called gibberellic acid to improve the health and growth of crops, but it is highly sensitive to heat and light. A study in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture shows that loading gibberellic acid into biodegradable nanoparticles can improve grape yield and quality, making it a promising and environmentally friendly…
Farmers have been utilizing a manufactured form of gibberellic acid, a natural plant hormone, to enhance crop health and growth. However, this compound is highly sensitive to heat and light. A study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture suggests that encapsulating gibberellic acid in biodegradable nanoparticles could improve grape yield and quality, presenting a promising and eco-friendly method for sustainable farming.
Field trials revealed that treating grapevines with gibberellic acid-loaded nanoparticles led to a significant increase in grape cluster weight by 104% and length by 67% compared to using free gibberellic acid. Additionally, berry weight, length, and width saw improvements of 15%, 4%, and 13%, respectively, when treated with the nanoparticle formulation.
The authors of the study highlight that nanocarrier systems offer more efficient delivery of active substances like plant growth regulators in agricultural applications as opposed to traditional methods. Their research, titled "Polymeric Nano-Delivery of Gibberellic Acid Enhances Fruit Quality, Yield, and Pedicel Strength in Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.)," was published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture in 2026. The study can be accessed via the DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.71082.
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