Wood Vinegar and Biochar Enhance Plant Growth in Poor Soils
Experimental Design and Application
Researchers conducted a polybag trial with four soil treatment groups:
- T1: Control (BRIS soil only)
- T2: BRIS soil + wood vinegar (WV)
- T3: BRIS soil + rice husk biochar (RHB)
- T4: BRIS soil + wood vinegar + rice husk biochar (WV+RHB)
Key application details:
- Wood vinegar was diluted at a 1:100 ratio and applied at 6 L/m² to pre-condition the soil before planting.
- Rice husk biochar was applied at 150 g/kg of soil.
- The study lasted five weeks, with regular watering and fertilizer application.
Key Findings
Soil Moisture and Organic Matter Increased
- RHB and WV+RHB treatments significantly improved soil moisture content (22% higher than control), likely due to biochar's high water retention properties.
- Organic matter levels were highest in RHB and WV+RHB treatments, indicating biochar's ability to store nutrients and support microbial activity.
Kenaf Growth Response to Treatments
- Stem diameter increased significantly in WV+RHB treatment (22.7% larger than control), suggesting improved structural growth.
- Plant height, leaf number, leaf area, and chlorophyll content improved in all treated soils, though differences were not statistically significant.