Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) have been developed for various uses in the agriculture industry. The effects of ENMs in plant systems are not yet fully understood. Some studies have reported the different effects of ENMs in plants from enhanced growth and nutrient uptake, to reduced root growth or damaged tissues. Zinc oxide nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes are commonly studied ENMs. Each have potential applications in agriculture which could benefit efficiency of farming practices or contribute to solutions for hunger and malnutrition. It is important to gain further understanding of the effects of these nanomaterials within important crop species, to facilitate their development and to support responsible use within agricultural applications. In the present study, it was found that zinc oxide nanomaterials can enhance biomass of wheat, but carbon nanotubes reduced biomass in rice. Element uptake was affected by zinc oxide in wheat and by carbon nanotubes in rice.