Gardening with Biochar
Biochar is perhaps the most incredible new product for our gardens that has come along in years. The trick is learning how biochar can help improve your garden’s performance. We recommend that you check back here frequently as we are constantly updating this page.
There are many benefits of using biochar in the garden including enhanced plant growth, reduced fertiliser requirements, reduced leaching of nutrients, reduced soil acidity and improved soil water holding capacity. In addition, the latest research shows that biochar increases available Ca, Mg, P, and K as well as increasing soil microbial respiration and activity.
How much biochar should you use in the garden?
Biochar application rates are determined in part by the type of soil you’re dealing with. As a general rule we recommend 6kg/m2 (about two bags of Burke’s Biochar per square metre). With that said, benefits can be seen with as little as 1kg/m2. Burke’s Biochar is particularly valuable to acidic soils as it has strong liming properties. Areas that receive little water also benefit greatly as biochar really improves soil water holding capacity and wetability.
How long does it take for biochar’s benefits to show up and how long do they last?
Many of biochar’s benefits can be seen immediately including, increased wetability, improved water retention and a lowering of soil acidity (increased pH). Other benefits take time to develop, for instance biochar provides micro-organisms and fungi with a more beneficial environment, with that said, it takes a few weeks for this to begin happening.
Can I add biochar to compost?
Burke’s Biochar is an excellent addition to compost. The compost will help fill the biochar with humic material and the biochar will cause the composting process to accelerate. In addition, biochar is helpful with odor control. Another point worth mentioning is that scientific tests have shown earth worms actually prefer biochar amended soils and will migrate towards them.
How do I apply Biochar?
Burke’s Biochar is simple to incorporate into your yard and garden. The important thing to remember is that you want to mix the biochar into the top 10 to 15 centimeters. For best results churn up the area as much as possible and incorporate the biochar thoroughly. Keep the biochar moist while you’re working as it will reduce dust levels.
Can adding biochar cause growth to stall?
Biochar can cause growth to stall when nitrogen levels are low. That is probably not the case in most garden situations which have the advantage of compost, manure and kitchen scraps. For best results combine biochar with a good premium potting mix and compost and let it sit for a week or two before adding it to your garden. This time will allow the biochar’s pours to be filled with nitrogen and other nutrients. Once this is done the biochar can then be added to the area where the plants are without drawing down the surrounding nitrogen levels.
Does biochar aid root system development?
Biochar is extremely effective in helping plant root systems thrive. Biochar improves soil aeration and tilth while at the same time making nutrients more readily available. These characteristics combine to give roots the opportunity to grow rapidly and result in much healthier stronger plants.
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