Soil and Plant Responses to Poultry Litter and Wood-Based Biochars in Piedmont and Mine Soils.

Application of biochars derived from different feedstock sources may have differential effects on soil fertility and plant productivity – and these responses can vary by soil type. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of different biochar treatments (pine biochar + fertilizer, poultry litter biochar + fertilizer, fertilizer and control) on soils and consequent productivity of foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.)). Mixed Piedmont soil and reclaimed mine spoil were used to grow millet under greenhouse conditions. Plant growth measures (height, leaf stomatal conductance, and dry matter yield) were collected. Plants grown with fertilizer or biochar sources + fertilizer were taller and more robust. Stomatal conductance data were inconsistent over time; conductance was lower in fertilized plants on Piedmont soil, suggesting these larger plants removed more water from the soil column.