In a study published in the European Journal of Soil Science, Aller et al., examined the influence of soil organic matter (SOM) and 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 on soil water dynamics. The research emphasizes the importance of soil’s ability to store and regulate water for effective crop production.  

The study involved collecting soil samples from various fields in Iowa, with some fields having received biochar applications. The samples were meticulously analyzed for texture, SOM content, and key soil water parameters, including field capacity, wilting point, and water-holding capacity.  A key quantitative finding of the research is that for every 1% increase in SOM in the top 30cm of soil, the soil water-holding capacity increased by 5mm. This consistent relationship highlights the significant role of SOM in enhancing soil’s ability to retain water.  

Notably, the study revealed that biochar’s effect on soil water-holding capacity is similar to that of naturally occurring SOM. This suggests that biochar can be used as a soil amendmentA soil amendment is any material added to the soil to enhance its physical or chemical properties, improving its suitability for plant growth. Biochar is considered a soil amendment as it can improve soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity.   More to improve water retention in a way comparable to the benefits of increasing native SOM. In addition to the experimental findings, the researchers evaluated the effectiveness of pedotransfer functions (PTFs) and the APSIM-biochar model in estimating soil water parameters.  

This research contributes valuable data towards understanding the quantitative relationship between SOM, biochar, and soil water properties, offering insights for improved soil management practices.

SOURCE:Aller, D., Archontoulis, S., & Laird, D. (2025). Soil Organic Matter and Biochar Effects on Soil Water: Measurements, Pedotransfer Functions and APSIM Simulations. European Journal of Soil Science, 76, e70083.