In a study published in the Soil Science Society of America Journal, Karki et al., investigated the effects 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 (BC) and cover crops (CCs) on the physical properties of soil in Ohio. The research explored how these practices, individually and combined, influence soil health.  

The study was conducted at two research stations in Ohio with different soil types: Crosby silt loam and Hoytville clay loam. Biochar derived from pine wood chips was applied at a rate of 10 Mg per hectare. Cover crops, including rye and winter wheat, were planted over two years. The researchers then assessed several soil physical properties, including bulk density, penetration resistance, water retention, and aggregate stability.  

The study revealed that while cover crops alone did not show significant effects on soil physical properties within the two-year timeframe, biochar application and the combination of biochar and cover crops did improve certain soil properties. In the medium-textured soil, biochar reduced soil penetration resistance by 25% at a 7.5-cm depth. The combined application of biochar and cover crops enhanced wet aggregate stability. In the fine-textured soil, biochar increased soil moisture retention, while the combined treatment reduced penetration resistance by 32%.  

Overall, the study suggests that combining biochar and cover crops can be a promising strategy for improving soil physical health.  

SOURCE: Karki, S., Shrestha, R., Lal, R., Lorenz, K., & Lindsey, L. (2025). Effects of biochar and cover crops on physical properties of two soils in Ohio. Soil Science Society of America Journal, 89, e70041.