Comparative effects of biochar and NPK on wheat crops under different management systems

As a multi-beneficial amendment, biochar is very useful to be applied for improving soil health and crop productivity. Therefore, this study was carried out to assess the influence of wood biochar and mineral nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilisers viz, [(control; 100% NPK (120:90:60 kg ha(-1)); 75% NPK + 5 ton biochar; 50% NPK + 10 ton biochar; 25% NPK + 15 ton biochar and 20 ton biochar ha(-1))] on wheat yield and soil properties under different management practices [(raised bed (more than 30 cm above the ground) and flat-bed)]. Split plot two factors randomised completed block (RCB) design with three replications were used where management practices were placed to main plot, while treatments were assigned to subplots. Maximum spike length, grain per spike, 1000 grain weight, grain and biological yield were obtained with application of 75% NPK + 5 ton biochar ha(-1) under both raised and flatbed, which were statistically at par to 50% NPK + 10 ton biochar ha(-1). The grain and biological yield observed at 75% NPK + 5 ton biochar and 50% NPK + 10 ton biochar ha(-1) were significantly higher than that of 20 ton biochar ha(-1). However, maximum soil organic matter, extractable P and K contents with slight increases in soil pH and EC was observed at 20 ton biochar ha(-1). Moreover, almost all agronomic parameters were significantly better in raised bed compared to flat-bed sowing. Hence, the present study suggested that 75% NPK + 5 ton biochar ha(-1) is suitable for improving wheat yield and soil properties.

Automated summary

This study assessed the impact of wood biochar and different fertilizer combinations on wheat yield and soil properties. The results showed that applying 75% NPK + 5 ton biochar per hectare resulted in the highest wheat yield and improved soil properties. However, applying a large amount of biochar did not enhance yield or soil properties.