A study submitted to TopSCHOLAR® at Western Kentucky University investigated the impact of 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 the rooting and establishment of evergreen propagules. The research highlights biochar’s potential to improve nutrient use efficiencyNutrient use efficiency refers to how effectively plants can take up and utilize nutrients from the soil. Biochar can improve nutrient use efficiency by enhancing nutrient availability and retention in the soil.   More and water retention in containerized substrates, which are essential for the horticulture and floriculture industry.  

Biochar has a high porosityPorosity of biochar is a key factor in its effectiveness as a soil amendment and its ability to retain water and nutrients. Biochar’s porosity is influenced by feedstock type and pyrolysis temperature, and it plays a crucial role in microbial activity and overall soil health. Biochar More and surface area. These characteristics contribute to biochar’s ability to enhance soil fertility and retain water. The study suggests that biochar could be a valuable tool to address the issue of over-fertilization in greenhouse production by reducing nutrient leachingLeaching is the process where nutrients are dissolved and carried away from the soil by water. This can lead to nutrient depletion and environmental pollution. Biochar can help reduce leaching by improving nutrient retention in the soil.   More.  

The research involved two experiments: one in a greenhouse and the other in a cold frame. Cuttings from Chamaecyparis obtusa, Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Vintage Gold’, and Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’ were grown in potting mixes with varying percentages of biochar. The results of both experiments indicated a positive correlation between biochar and propagule growth. Notably, the potting mix containing 25% biochar consistently led to greater root and shoot biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More compared to the control groups.  

While biochar generally promoted growth, the study also found that excessively high concentrations (75-100%) could be detrimental. This was likely due to the elevated pHpH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral, while lower pH values indicate acidity and higher values indicate alkalinity. Biochars are normally alkaline and can influence soil pH, often increasing it, which can be beneficial More levels in these treatments, which can hinder nutrient uptake by plants.  

An interesting observation was made during a trial where a sudden temperature drop caused the control group to fail. However, the 25% biochar treatment showed some resilience, suggesting that biochar might buffer plants against environmental stress.  

The study concludes that biochar-amended soil has the potential to be a sustainable and effective strategy in greenhouse production. Using a 25% biochar amendment can optimize plant growth while reducing the need for excessive fertilization.  

Source: Mudd, M. (2025). Influence of Biochar on Rooting and Establishment of Chamaecyparis and Thuga Species [Master’s thesis, Western Kentucky University]. TopSCHOLAR®.