DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sajb.2025.v13i06.015

Pages: 778-818

Drought, salinity, extreme heat and heavy metal toxicity which are caused by climate change, pose threats to food crops around the globe. They disturb the normal functioning of the plant, boost ROS production and destroy the structure of plant cells. The best defense against these results is the activity of enzymes in antioxidant systems such as SOD, CAT and APX in plants. Lately, the use of smart NFs has helped strengthen the defense systems of plants and assist in the delivery of nutrients. At the molecular level, NFs make sure that nutrients are released slowly and only when needed by the plant. This review covers blending nano-fertilizers through various methods, focusing on how they are compatible with living things, environmentally friendly and safe. Impacts of ZnO, Fe, SiO₂ and nano-NPK are reviewed for assisting root development, photosynthesis and improving harvests under stressful environment. To enhance the way plants reach fertilizers, science also uses encapsulation, pH-responsive coatings and foliar applications. When taken up into cells, NFs engage in activities with chloroplasts and mitochondria, activate certain ROS-removing genes and modify stress-responsive genes. Case studies find that they impact antioxidant action, balance the redox state in plant cells and boost crop yields for wheat, rice and maize. Furthermore, utilizing nano-sensors and precision agriculture means nutrient monitoring is possible at any time and farming can be adapted to different fields. In total, smart nano-fertilizers help agriculture become more sustainable and adapt to climate change by boosting enzymes, causing minimal damage to the environment and allowing farmers to produce more crops.