Biochar has several potential applications in horticulture, as it can improve soil health, increase crop yields and reduce the environmental impact of horticultural production.
Improved soil quality and the possibility of carbon trading for the most stable forms are two advantages that carbon-rich soil amendments like biochar provide to horticulture. One of the key characteristics of biochar is its capacity to retain soil nutrients. By adding it to soils, it can increase soil fertility, sequester carbon, and improve soil health. However, there is a need to determine the best way to apply biochar to increase crop yields.
In addition, biochar can also improve soil structure, making it more aerated and easier for roots to penetrate. This can help to improve the resilience of plants to environmental stressors such as drought.
In terms of environmental benefits, by using biochar as a soil amendment, horticultural producers can reduce the amount of synthetic fertilizers required to produce crops, thus reducing the carbon footprint and environmental impact of horticultural production.
Another potential application of biochar in horticulture is in the treatment of contaminated soils. Biochar has been shown to adsorb pollutants such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants, making it a potential tool for remediating contaminated sites.
It’s important to note that biochar is not a substitute for a balanced soil management and should be used in conjunction with other soil management practices such as crop rotation, composting, and proper irrigation.