Uwingabire, et al (2024) French Bean Production as Influenced by 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 Biochar Blended Manure Application in Two Agro-Ecological Zones of Rwanda. Agronomy. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14092020

Biochar and livestock manure (LM) have demonstrated potential to boost soil fertility and crop yield, particularly in degraded tropical soils. A field study conducted over three seasons in two agro-ecological zones of Rwanda explored the effects of biochar and biochar combined with LM on French bean yields. The study examined different rates of biochar (0, 1, and 3 t/ha) and LM (0, 1, and 3 t/ha), applied alone or in combination.

The results showed significant improvements in both soil properties and French bean yields, with the best outcomes observed in plots treated with the highest biochar and manure combination (3 t/ha). These combined treatments led to notable increases in soil 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, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and cation exchange capacity (CEC), which in turn boosted crop productivity. Over the three seasons, the biochar-manure combination significantly outperformed individual treatments, with yield improvements of up to 209.8%.

While manure provided an initial nutrient boost, biochar contributed to long-term soil improvement by retaining nutrients and enhancing water retention. This synergy between biochar and LM, particularly at higher application rates, suggests a sustainable solution for smallholder farmers facing soil degradation. The study encourages integrating biochar and organic manure into local farming practices, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers that also enhances soil health over time.

In conclusion, combining biochar and manure presents a viable method for improving vegetable production, benefiting both the environment and rural livelihoods in Rwanda.