Nebraska research shows mixed results from biochar applications.
By Scout Nelson
Biochar has gained attention for its potential to improve soil health and crop yields. However, new research in Nebraska reveals mixed results, with biochar showing more benefits in subtropical and tropical soils than in temperate regions like Nebraska.
Studies in temperate regions are limited, and site-specific factors—such as soil type, biochar properties, and climate—determine its effectiveness.
In 2020, researchers set out to examine biochar’s impact on Nebraska’s environmentally sensitive soils, including sandy, sloping, and semi-arid areas. The study, funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, involved wood biochar applications at various rates across these sites, with and without winter cover crops.
After three years, researchers observed biochar benefits mainly in the sandy and sloping soils, with improvements in soil organic matter and water infiltration.
However, these benefits diminished over time. In the semi-arid region, persistent drought limited both crop and cover crop growth, reducing biochar’s effectiveness.
Biochar did not significantly increase corn and soybean yields, but high application rates (22.5 ton/ac) slightly boosted cover crop biomass in some areas.
Overall, the study suggests biochar may be beneficial for addressing specific soil issues, particularly in low organic matter or acidic soils, but its widespread use may be impractical due to the large quantities required.
While biochar can improve some soil properties, its long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness remain questionable for Nebraska’s soils, and more research is needed to explore its full potential.
Photo Credit - istock-ligora
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Energy