A recent study published in the SABRAO Journal of Breeding and Genetics by F. Nisa, Rafiuddin, and Nasaruddin explores how 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 and beneficial soil microbes can help cocoa plants thrive. Researchers looked at different types of biochar and various concentrations of actinomycetes, a type of bacteria, to see how they affected cocoa growth and production.

Cocoa is an important crop in Indonesia, but its productivity has been declining due to factors like erosion and climate change. Biochar, a charcoal-like substance made from burning plant materials, can improve soil health. Actinomycetes are soil microbes that help make nutrients more available to plants. The study investigated whether combining biochar with actinomycetes could help cocoa plants.  

The study revealed that using both biochar and actinomycetes together had positive effects on several aspects of cocoa growth. Specifically, the combination influenced the size of stomatal openings on the leaves, the number of pods that developed, the amount of flower loss, and the weight of dry beans. The most effective combination was corn cob biochar with a high concentration of actinomycetes, which led to the largest stomatal openings and heaviest dry beans, and the least flower loss.  While the combination of biochar and actinomycetes was beneficial, actinomycetes applied alone also had significant positive effects. Adding actinomycetes increased the number of pods formed, reduced pod loss, increased the number of harvested fruits, and improved overall cocoa yield. These microbes can produce hormones that promote plant growth and help plants withstand stress.  

This research suggests that using biochar and actinomycetes together can be a valuable strategy for improving cocoa production. Promoting healthy soil and reducing flower and pod loss can lead to higher yields and more sustainable cocoa farming.  

Source: Nisa F, Rafiuddin, Nasaruddin (2025). Response of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) productivity to biochar and actinomycetes SPP.. SABRAO J. Breed. Genet. 57(2): 823-832.