In a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, Deng et al., explored the use of pear tree 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 (PTB) to remediate copper (Cu) contaminated soil and promote the growth of Yunnanopilia longistaminea, a valuable forest vegetable in China. The research highlights the potential of biochar as a sustainable solution for restoring soil health in areas affected by heavy metal pollution.  

The study, conducted in a glasshouse, examined the impact of different concentrations of PTB (0%, 1%, 3%, and 5%) on Y. longistaminea seedlings grown in Cu-contaminated soil. The researchers assessed various growth parameters, including fresh 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, plant height, and chlorophyll content, as well as oxidative stress markers and Cu uptake in the plants.  

The results of the study indicated that the addition of PTB significantly improved the growth of Y. longistaminea seedlings in Cu-contaminated soil. Specifically, the application of 3% PTB led to the maximum increase in leaf, stem, and root fresh weight. This treatment also resulted in the highest chlorophyll content in the leaves. Furthermore, the 3% PTB application significantly reduced oxidative stress in the seedlings, as evidenced by lower levels of malondialdehyde and proline.  

In conclusion, the study suggests that pear tree biochar can be an effective amendment for Cu-contaminated soils, promoting the growth and reducing the stress response of Yunnanopilia longistaminea.  

SOURCE: Deng, G., Xiao, C., Tan, S., Xie, J., Liu, Z., Xu, L., Yang, L., Rehman, M., Fahad, S., & Shen, S. (2025). Influence of pear tree biochar on the growth and oxidative stress of Yunnanopilia longistaminea – A forest vegetable planted in copper-contaminated soil. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 21, 101864.