Using two dosages of biochar from shorea to improve the growth of Paraserianthes falcataria seedlings

Abstract

The objective of the study was to examine the effect of biochar addition on the growth of Paraserianthes falcataria seedlings. Biochar from shorea was produced using a traditional kiln at 400 C and 600 C. The scarification of P. falcataria seeds were conducted using hot water with temperature at 80 C and then soaked for 24 h. The seeds were then spread on to the germination media and after germinated, the seedlings were moved to polybags contain soil and biochar. Two dosages of biochar such as 25 and 50% were applied and compared with control. The research was arranged in a completely randomized design with 15 replicates. The examination of seedlings growth was conducted one week after transplanting, then subsequently monitored every month. The results showed that the addition of biochar improved the survival rate of seedlings, height and diameter increments, root length and root volume. The results showed a potential of using biochar to improve the growth of P. falcataria seedlings in the nursery.