Effects of biochar application at different rates on chili growth

Abstract

Biochar is a solid carbonaceous residue from biomass pyrolysis under anaerobic conditions. It has been well-known that biochar enhances plant growth and improve soil quality as the soil amendment. However, for chili (Capsicum annuum L), it is unknown whether biochar addition has any effect on its productivity. Thus, we studied the effects of different dosages of biochar addition at rates of 1.5% and 3% (w/w,1.5%BC and 3%BC) on the germination and growth of chili using a pot experiment. The results show that the 3%BC increased the weight of fresh shoots and roots by 17.4% and 14.6%, respectively. However, the addition of biochar has no pronounced effect on the chili yield. Therefore, it is very important to choose the appropriate biochar and addition proportion for its application in agricultural soils.