Adding biochar, a fine-grained charcoal, to garden soil replenishes nutrients, retains moisture and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Adding biochar, a fine-grained charcoal, to garden soil replenishes nutrients, retains moisture and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Is biochar good for all plants?

Biochar is organic matter that has been roasted (pyrolyzed) at temperatures above 660°F (350°C) with very limited oxygen. Just about any organic matter — any plant or animal that was once alive — can be used as the raw material, also called feedstock, but plant material in general and wood in particular is preferred.

How do you apply biochar to plants?

The most typical way is to mix your biochar with compost and let it sit for at least 10 days. A 50/50 mix of biochar and compost will work well for charging purposes. Most farmers mix 20% biochar in their compost blend and add the “compo-char” blend as necessary.