Biochar is a high carbon material derived from organic matter (wood, plant waste, spent grain, etc.) that has been heated in a low-oxygen environment to create a coal-like substance. If done right, very little waste is produced and is a carbon negative process when the byproduct is energy.
Why Biochar?
- A long lasting, sustainable and permanent soil enhancer.
- Due to its large surface area, it increases soil tilth by adding air pockets to the soil.
- Reduces soil acidity.
- Helps mitigate heavy metal (lead, mercury, arsenic, etc.) toxicity in the soil.
- Helps prevent soil erosion.
- Acts like a sponge increasing water retention.
- Increases the negative charge of the soil.
- Gives the soil a higher nutrient holding capacity.
- Contains billions of tiny holes for microbes to hide and play.
- Improves plant growth and reduces disease (because of all the above).
- Relatively small amounts added to the beginning of compost piles can significantly reduce the loss of Nitrogen during the composting process.
- Sequesters carbon.
As a soil amendment. Recommended application rate is:
- 0.5% – 1% Organic Matter (OM) equivalent recommended.
- 2% OM equivalent suggested upper limit.
As an additive to animal fodder – detoxifying the animals internal organs.
How to make Biochar