The Effect Of Biochar As An Organic Amendment For Soil Health And Cropping System

Abstract

Soil degradation and declining fertility are major constraints to sustainable maize (Zea mays L.) production in arid and calcareous soils of Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan. The excessive burning and mismanagement of agricultural wastes, such as banana residues, further aggravate environmental pollution while valuable organic resources remain underutilized. Biochar, a stable carbon-rich material produced through pyrolysis of organic waste, has emerged as a promising soil amendment for improving soil physicochemical properties and crop productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of banana leaf derived biochar on soil properties and growth performance of maize under controlled pot conditions. A greenhouse experiment was conducted at the Department of Soil Science, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal, Balochistan. Six treatments comprising control (T1) and biochar application rates of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% (T2–T6) were arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications. Biochar was produced from banana waste through slow pyrolysis. Soil samples were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and potassium before and after harvest. Agronomic parameters including plant height, stem girth, and biomass production were also recorded. Results revealed that biochar application significantly improved soil organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, potassium, stem girth, and biomass production, while changes in soil pH and electrical conductivity remained statistically non-significant. The highest biochar rate (25%) consistently produced superior soil fertility status and maximum maize biomass. Overall, banana-derived biochar proved to be an effective soil amendment for enhancing soil quality and maize productivity. The study concludes that recycling banana waste into biochar offers an environmentally sustainable and agronomically beneficial strategy for improving maize production in calcareous soils.