Comparative Effects of Different Types of Biochar on Physical Properties of Soil And Growth of Maize

Abstract

The current pot trial was conducted to estimate the impacts of different types of biochar on the growth and nutrients availability of maize (Zea mays) and their effects on the properties of soil. Treatments including four different feedstock based biochar i.e wheat straw, rice husk, corn cob and wood bark were applied to the soil in 10 kg pots @ 1.5% w/w. The experiment was carried out using complete randomized design (CRD). The crop was harvested after the plants have completed their vegetative growth. Physiological parameters of the crop (plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll content) were measured before harvesting while shoot mass (fresh and dry) and root mass (fresh and dry) were calculated after harvesting of the crop. The data showed a significant difference when compared with the control. Plant height was significantly increased from 140cm (control) to 159.9cm in T4 (wood bark biochar). Experimental soil was analyzed in the laboratory for NPK, water aggregate stability, organic matter and active carbon. Wet aggregate stability value of the soil was improved from 17.82% to 19.5%. Similarly soil active carbon was significantly improved from 259.33 ppm to 321.25 ppm. The data showed more significant results of wood bark biochar. Nutrient availability in the soil and plant nutrients uptake N (21.6%), P (31.25%) and K (45%) was increased as a results of biochar incorporation in the soil.

Keywords

• biochar
• organic matter
• active carbon
• maize growth