Bai, K., Wang, W., Zhang, J. et al. Effects of phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria 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 application on phosphorus availabilityPhosphorus is another essential nutrient for plant growth, but it can sometimes be locked up in the soil and unavailable to plants. Biochar can help release phosphorus from the soil and make it more accessible to plants, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.   More and tomato growth under phosphorus stress. BMC Biol22, 211 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12915-024-02011-y

A recent study explores the synergy between phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and biochar to improve phosphorus availability in soil and enhance tomato plant growth, particularly under phosphorus stress conditions. The bacterium Pseudomonas sp. NK2, known for its ability to convert insoluble phosphorus into plant-available forms, was the focus of the research. The study highlighted the intracellular processes that enable Pseudomonas sp. NK2 to release organic acids such as acetic, citric, and oxalic acid, which play a vital role in solubilizing phosphorus.

To maximize the effectiveness of these bacteria, seven types of biochar were tested as carriers for PSB. Cotton straw biochar was identified as the most effective, significantly increasing the availability of phosphorus in the soil. When applied to Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) plants, Pseudomonas sp. NK2 immobilized on cotton straw biochar led to improved plant growth, including better 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, root development, and overall health.

This research suggests that using biochar-immobilized phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria can be a promising, sustainable approach to enhancing phosphorus utilization in agriculture. This method not only reduces the need for chemical fertilizers but also promotes healthier plant growth, supporting efforts toward more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.