Haghaninia, et al (2024) Adoption of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungiThese are friendly fungi that form a partnership with plant roots. They act like an extension of the root system, helping plants access water and nutrients more effectively. Biochar can create a cozy habitat for these helpful fungi, boosting their growth and improving plant health.   More and 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 for alleviating the agro-physiological response of lavander (Lavandula angustifoliaL.) subjected to drought stress. Plant Stress. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.stress.2024.100461

In the quest to address food security and sustainable agricultural practices amid climate challenges, innovative solutions are essential. Recent studies spotlight the combined use of biochar (BC) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) as a potent method to bolster plants against drought stress. Lavender, a plant not only valued for its aesthetic but also its medicinal properties, becomes the focus of this study, particularly under varying irrigation levels.

The research investigates how different irrigation regimes (90%, 60%, and 30% field capacity) influence the growth and biochemical properties of lavender when treated with BC, AMF, or both. Findings reveal that lavender thrives best under normal watering conditions when both BC and AMF are applied, suggesting a synergistic interaction that enhances nutrient uptake and overall plant health.

Under drought conditions, this combination significantly boosts antioxidant activities, helping the plant mitigate oxidative damage. Moreover, it increases the production of phenolic compounds and essential oils, which are crucial for the plant’s defense mechanism and commercial value. Notably, the essential oil yield peaks under mild stress with the BC+AMF treatment, marking a significant improvement in both quantity and quality.

This research underlines the potential of BC and AMF to not only improve lavender’s drought resilience but also enhance its agronomic and physiological traits. Such findings are promising for the broader application in agriculture, especially in arid regions, presenting a sustainable avenue to counter the adverse effects of drought while reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers. As the global climate continues to pose new challenges to crop productivity, integrating biochar and mycorrhizal fungi into farming practices could be a key strategy for sustainable agriculture.