Use of biochar as a component of substrates in horticulture and forestry: A review

Abstract

Plant production in nurseries, both in the forestry and horticultural sectors, has a large demand for substrates, making the use of natural resources such as peat high. The composition of substrates must not only have the necessary characteristics for good plant development, such as porosity, density, and water retention, but also look for sustainable and economical production. Biochar is a material derived from the processing of various organic residues which, due to its physical and chemical characteristics, presents great potential as a component of substrates for seedlings in nurseries. However, some issues still need to be resolved for this application, such as implementation costs, production process variables, feedstock origin and characterization, as well as the ideal proportions to be employed in formulations. To advance in these issues, we reviewed studies dealing with the different aspects of the use of biochar as a component of substrates. The literature suggests biochar can raise the quality of substrates, improve physical and chemical properties, contribute to waste management, and reduce production costs.