Amjad Ahmad and colleagues from the University of Hawaii at Manoa explored the effects of biochar-assisted compost on sweet corn growth. The study, presented in April 2025, focused on utilizing biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More made from invasive leucaena trees to improve compost and subsequent crop production in nutrient-poor soil in Oahu, Hawaii.  

The researchers produced biochar from leucaena wood at temperatures between 350-400°C. They then prepared two types of compost: one with 5% biochar and a control group without biochar. Preliminary results indicated that the biochar-assisted compost matured about two weeks faster than the regular compost. The biochar-enhanced compost also exhibited higher microbial activity, indicated by increased CO2 production.  

Sweet corn grown with the biochar-enriched compost showed improved growth and yielded larger ears compared to those grown with the compost that had no biochar. This approach not only improved crop production but also supported the control of invasive tree species, contributing to local environmental protection and benefiting farming operations.  

This research highlights the dual benefits of using biochar derived from invasive species: enhancing soil fertility and compost quality, and managing invasive plants.  

SOURCE:Ahmad, A., Collier, E., Radovich, T., Nguyen, H., Uyeda, J., Silva, J., Rodriguez, G. (Trey), & Meaney, S. (2025). Sweet Corn Growth under Biochar & Biochar Assisted Compost. [Presentation]. College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii, USA.