Table 7.
Hypothetical cost–benefit comparison of Si-NPs and Fusarium-based granular bioherbicide versus conventional herbicide use in Egyptian clover production (per feddan*).
| Parameter | Si-NPs as herbicides | Fusarium bioherbicide | Conventional herbicide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material cost (EGP) | 300–700 (local source) | 250 (local source) | 750–900 (imported) |
| Cost/application (EGP) | 150 | 150 | 150 |
| No. of applications | 1–2/season | 1/season | 2–3/season |
| Total application cost (EGP) | 300 | 150 | 450 |
| Total treatment cost (EGP) | 600–1000 | 400 | 1200–1350 |
| Clover fresh yield (ton/feddan*/season) | 42.9 | 34.3 | 42.7 |
| Clover market price (EGP/ton FW) | 2000 | 2000 | 2000 |
| Gross income (EGP) | 85,800 | 68,600 | 85,400 |
| Net income (EGP) after deducting treatment cost | 85,200–84,800 | 68,200 | 84,200–84,050 |
*1 feddan = ~ 0.42 hectares, 1 EGP = 0.020 USD (May 2025).
Average fresh yield per season was calculated for each treatment based on the results achieved in the current study.
Market prices are based on 2024 average values from Delta region reports. Actual figures may vary depending on market fluctuations and yield conditions.