Yu, P., Qin, K., Crosby, K. et al. 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 reduces containerized pepper blight caused by Phytophthora Capsici. Sci Rep 14, 30664 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-76712-3

Biochar, a carbon-rich 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, has shown promise in reducing soil-borne diseases. Recent research explored its effectiveness in controlling Phytophthora blight—a destructive disease caused by Phytophthora capsici—in container-grown peppers. The study also assessed the combined use of biochar and the biological control agent Trichoderma.

Two biochars were tested: one derived from sugarcane bagasse and another from mixed hardwood. These biochars were mixed with a commercial peat-based substrate at varying rates, replacing up to 70% of peat. Greenhouse experiments revealed that using hardwood biochar at 30% and 50% replacement levels significantly reduced disease severity and incidence. Plants grown in these treatments exhibited better growth compared to the control. Conversely, higher replacement rates (70%) reduced plant 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, emphasizing the need for moderation.

Interestingly, Trichoderma showed strong pathogen inhibition in lab tests but had limited impact in greenhouse trials. This suggests environmental factors may influence its effectiveness.

The study highlights biochar’s dual role: directly suppressing pathogens through chemical properties and improving soil health by enhancing nutrient and water retention. By partially replacing peat with hardwood biochar, growers can reduce disease risk while supporting sustainable agriculture.

These findings encourage further exploration of biochar’s potential as a sustainable alternative to peat in soilless substrates, offering economic and ecological benefits in horticulture.