A study published in the Jurnal Agrotek Tropika by Dian Meithasari et al. explores the use of rock phosphate and corn cob 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 to improve soybean production in dry, acidic lands. The research focuses on the effect of these soil amendments on pest and disease intensity and the yield of the Demas-1 soybean variety.

Soybean is a crucial food crop, but its production can be hindered by factors like pests, diseases, and acidic soil conditions. Acidic soils, common in many regions, pose a particular challenge as they can reduce nutrient availability and overall plant health. To address these challenges, the use of soil amendments like rock phosphate and biochar has been explored. Rock phosphate can improve soil fertility, while biochar, a charcoal-like substance made from agricultural waste, can enhance soil structure and nutrient retention. This study investigates the effectiveness of these amendments in soybean cultivation.

The research, conducted in South Lampung Regency, Indonesia, examined the impact of corn cob biochar and rock phosphate on soybean plants. The results indicated that the Demas-1 soybean variety showed some resistance to leaf rust disease. Armyworm attacks were observed, but their intensity did not significantly differ between treatments. Importantly, the application of biochar at rates of 6, 8, and 10 tons per hectare tended to promote plant growth, influencing factors such as plant height, number of branches, pod development, and seed weight.

Quantitatively, leaf rust attack ranged from 3.3% to 7.33% in treated plants, while the control group showed no rust. Armyworm attacks reached 34% across treatments, categorized as a “medium” level of attack (20-45%). Biochar application at 6, 8, and 10 tons per hectare showed a trend of increased plant growth.

This research suggests that biochar can be a valuable tool for soybean cultivation, particularly in acidic soils. By promoting plant growth and potentially mitigating the negative effects of acidic conditions, biochar can contribute to increased soybean production.

SOURCE : Meithasari, D., Sipi, S., Ar Rahman, A. A., Salim, & Endriani. (2025). EFFECT OF ROCK PHOSPHATE AND CORN COB BIOCHAR ON THE INTENSITY OF PEST DISEASE ATTACKS AND PRODUCTION SOYBEAN CROPS IN DRY ACID LAND. Jurnal Agrotek Tropika, 13(2), 348–356.