Is there scientific research showing increased
plant growth with applications of biochar?
Yes. Studies in both tropical and temperate climates have
demonstrated biochar’s ability to increase plant growth,
reduce leaching of nutrients, increase water retention,
and increase microbial activity. In a study done on a
Colombian Oxisol (a soil type also found extensively in
Hawai‘i), total above-ground plant biomass increased by
189 percent when biochar was applied at a rate of 23.2
tons per hectar. Research indicates
that both biological nitrogen fixation and beneficial
mycorrhizal relationships in common beans (Phaseolus
vulgaris) are enhanced by biochar applications. In Brazil, occurrence
of native plant species increased by 63 percent in areas
where biochar was applied. Studies
have also shown that the characteristics of biochar most
important to plant growth can improve over time after its
incorporation into soil.