Cunsuming biochar, compost, and microbial amendments for horticultural systems (A review)

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 PhD. Student, Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran

2 Assoc.. Prof., Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran

3 Prof., Department of Botany, Scottish Church College, Kolkata, India

Abstract

Soil–plant–microbiome interactions (SPMI) are pivotal for enhancing soil health and crop quality in horticultural systems. This comprehensive review evaluates the individual and synergistic effects of biochar, compost, and microbial inoculants, such as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), on soil health and crop performance. Soil biodiversity, which encompasses the variety of organisms within the soil ecosystem, is crucial for maintaining ecosystem functions and resilience. Biochar, with a porous structure, significantly increases water-holding capacity by up to 20% and cation exchange capacity (CEC) by 30%, while also promoting microbial diversity. Notably, biochar has been shown to boost yields of crops like tomato by 12%. Compost, by adding organic matter, enhances soil enzymatic activity by 25% and improves fruit quality in crops such as strawberry; however, poorly processed compost may introduce salinity or contaminants that can adversely affect plant growth. Microbial inoculants, including PGPR and AMF, play a crucial role in improving nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus to 20%. Additionally, these inoculants help suppress soilborne diseases, such as Fusarium, by up to 25%. The combined application of biochar, compost, and also microbial inoculants yields stronger synergistic effects, increasing microbial activity by 30% and crop yields, such as lettuce, by 15%. Despite of these benefits, challenges such as field inconsistencies, compost contamination, and biochar’s adverse effects in alkaline soils necessitate further research and standardized protocols. Advanced tools like metagenomics can optimize these interactions for sustainable horticulture. This review underscores the potential of these amendments to reduce reliance on chemical inputs, enhance soil health, and ensure food security, while proposing future directions for interdisciplinary research and precision agriculture.

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Main Subjects

References

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Dryland Soil Research (DLSR)
Volume 1, Issue 2
December 2024
Pages 103-116

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