Effects of Biochar On Corn and Wheat Growth and Soil Test Phosphorus.

Biochar has been reported to improve crop yield, increase availability of plant nutrients, increase soil moisture retention, reduce greenhouse gas emission, and sequester carbon. A greenhouse experiment was conducted at the University of Minnesota, Southwest Research and Outreach Center near Lamberton to evaluate soil and crop responses to biochar amendments. The objectives of this experiment were to: 1) measure crop growth response in soil amended with pyrolysis, gasification and combustion biochar/ash products (Turkey Manure Combustion Ash, Corn Cob/Wood Gasification Biochar, and Switchgrass Pyrolysis Biochar); and 2) determine the effects of those products on soil test phosphorus (STP). Treatments were applied at two rates (56, and 112 kg ha-1) in addition to a control (0 Mg ha-1). Crops tested were corn (Zea mays L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and plants were grown in 2.1 L pots for 55 days. The study was set up in a completely randomized block design replicated four times. The soil series used were Hubbard loamy sand, Canisteo clay loam, and Barnes loam. Plant growth was assessed on a weekly basis, starting 14 days after planting. Soil samples were collected from all pots at the beginning and end of the study. Samples are being analyzed for total C, total N, total S, ammonium, nitrate, pH, moisture retention at wilting point, and selected enzyme activities. In addition, STP will be determined using the Bray-P, Olsen, and Mehlich extractants. Above ground plant material was collected and is being analyzed for biomass yield and nutrient uptake. Results will aid in determining how these products affect several soil physical, chemical and biological properties and as a result crop growth.