ABSTRACT
Chitosan biopolymer has been proven to induce abiotic and biotic stress tolerance in various horticultural commodities, and it is also utilized to protect edible products and for plant growth stimulation. Since 1990, the studies on chitin and chitosan have been intensified due to their excellent properties, such as biodegradation in the human body, controlling plant diseases, immunological, antibacterial, antifungal, wound-healing activity. This chapter summarizes the novel agricultural applications of chitin and chitosan. Multifunctional use of chitin and chitosan-based biomaterials has been proved to aid the plant growth and enhance food production. The chapter provides insights on the use of these chitin and chitosan biomaterials for researchers working to discover new materials with new properties for valuable applications. Chitosan nanoparticles, the recent innovatively modified form of chitosan, have been utilized as a valuable delivery system for pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, and micronutrients for crop growth promotion by a balanced and sustained nutrition.
