Biochar for Enhancing Yield, Nutrient Uptake, and Soil Fertility in Okra

The beneficial role of biochar in improving soil fertility is well known, but the optimal application rate in sandy loam soils remains unclear. To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted in 2023 on the coastal sandy loam soils of Kayamkulam, Kerala, to assess the impact of different biochar rates on okra yield, nutrient uptake, and soil fertility. The study followed a randomized block design with nine treatments: various combinations of biochar (5 and 10 t/ha), farmyard manure (5 and 20 t/ha ), and two nutrient levels (75% and 100% RDF). Results revealed that the application of biochar at 10 t/ha along with the recommended nutrient dose (110:35:70 kg N:P₂O₅:K₂O/ha) significantly improved okra yield and nutrient uptake while enhancing soil fertility. The findings highlight the potential of biochar as a soil conditioner and underscore the importance of application rate for achieving optimal benefits.