Evaluation of the improvements produced by biochar by biochar in corn cultivation

The use of Biochar has aroused curiosity in Colombia. In their study, Rojas and Flórez have shown that agroindustrial wastes are used as a source of Biochar production.

The ability of Biochar to improve soil properties has been investigated. For example, Martinez C. et al. increased the availability of phosphorus in the soil by using eucalyptus biochar. The use of Biochar as an improvement for agronomic crops such as corn has been the subject of further studies.

A study was conducted at the University of Cundinamarca to investigate how amendment with Biochar obtained from Neem tree pruning residues affected corn production. Tests were conducted in pots with various treatments and parameters such as stem diameter and plant height were evaluated.

The findings showed that Biochar in combination with humus or urea produced larger plants, while Biochar alone produced smaller plants compared to the control group. This could be the result of changes in nutrient availability, particularly nitrogen, and in the ability of Biochar to retain nutrients in the soil.

In conclusion, Neem Biochar used as a surrogate did not improve corn growth in this study significantly. Although more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, the combined use of Biochar with organic fertilizers could be a promising alternative for sustainable agricultural production.