Growth of zelkova serrata seedlings in a containerised production system treated with effective microorganisms and biochar

Abstract

Improvement in soil physical and chemical qualities in a containerised seedling production system is important to manage the survival of seedlings after transplanting and initial growth for reforestation efforts. The effects of mixed ratio of biochar and effective microorganisms (EM) on the growth of Zelkova serrata seedlings were investigated. Five levels of mixed ratio biochar (0-40% v/v with a growth medium) and two levels of fertilisation, either with or without EM, were applied to seedlings for 5 months. Height, root collar diameter and dry weight of each seedling were measured to compare the effects of the treatments. Main effects of the treatments were evident in all parameters. Growth parameters were much higher in seedlings treated with 1 g L4 fertilisation, EM treatment and low biochar ratio than those treated with 0.5 g L-1 fertilisation, without EM and with high biochar ratio. Quality index was in the order of as 0% > 10%, 20% >30%, and 40% mixed ratio biochar. Fertilisation and EM treatment increased quality index by 31 and 13% respectively. No significant interactions were found between treatments. These findings indicate that EM with 1 g L-1 fertilisation at low biochar ratio can be applied for better quality of Z. serrata seedlings in a containerised production system.