The effects of biochar on crop growth and carbon content, soil carbon and soil microbial biomass carbon intake.

Abstract

Biochar is carbon rich organic matter that is produced by pyrolysis. Studies have shown that biochar can improve soil fertility and crop yield. However, the mechanism is still unclear. This research investigated the effect of biochar on Carbon (C) dynamics in soil, soil microbial populations, and two crop plants. Lettuce and Kale were grown in soil (control treatment) and soil-biochar mixtures in the greenhouse for 44 days. Total carbon in the plant, soil microbes and soil samples were measured and analyzed to evaluate the affect by the biochar. The results showed that biochar resulted in an increase in soil C content (p