Abstract

This study investigates the effects of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles on the early growth and physiological characteristics of Zea mays (maize), with the aim of evaluating their potential as nanofertilizers in sustainable agriculture. CuO nanoparticles were synthesized and applied in varying concentrations (0.5 g, 1.0 g, and 1.5 g per treatment group) to assess their influence on seed germination, shoot elongation, leaf development, chlorophyll content, and biomass accumulation under controlled conditions. The results demonstrated that CuO nanoparticles significantly enhanced maize growth metrics in a dose-dependent manner. The 1.5g treatment group exhibited the greatest improvements in shoot height, leaf width, and biomass, while the 0.5g group showed balanced growth with minimal stress indicators. In contrast, the 1.0g treatment presented moderate outcomes with a slight reduction in chlorophyll levels, suggesting potential early-stage stress or interference with photosynthetic activity. Visual and physiological assessments revealed that treated plants displayed improved vigor, stronger stems, and greener foliage compared to the control, confirming the beneficial role of CuO nanoparticles when applied within optimal dosage limits. However, the observed variability across treatments also emphasized the importance of precise concentration management to avoid phytotoxicity. Overall, the findings highlight the promise of CuO nanoparticles as a novel tool to boost crop performance. Nevertheless, comprehensive long-term studies are recommended to assess their ecological impact, soil interactions, and field-level efficacy before large-scale agricultural deployment.