Effects of Wood-Derived Biochar on Germination, Physiology, and Growth of European Beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) and Turkey Oak (Quercus cerris L.)

Abstract

Biochar (BC) soil amendments could partially counteract soil carbon (C) stock decrease in broad-leaved forests in Italy; however, its effects on the growth of representative tree species—Fagus sylvatica L. and Quercus cerris L.—has not yet been addressed. We examine whether seed germination and growth of these species are affected by addition of BC obtained from deciduous broadleaf trees. Seeds were left to germinate in greenhouse conditions under three different BC amendments: 0% (control), 10% and 20% (v/v). Seedlings were then subjected to controlled conditions under the same BC percentage. Biochar effects on seed germination were assessed measuring germination time and percentage, while effects on photosynthesis were assessed using leaf chlorophyll content (mg/m2) and photosynthetic efficiency (FV/FM). Plant growth was estimated by recording leaf number, longest leaf length and plant height. Biochar treatments had no negative effects on germination and early growth stage of the two species. Positive effects were found on the chlorophyll content of both species (ca. +8%) regardless of the treatment and on the leaf number (+30%), leaf length (+14%) and plant height (+48%) of Q. cerris (only with 10% BC). Biochar applications seem, therefore, a suitable method for increasing broad-leaved forest C stock in Italy.

Effect of Biochar Type, Concentration and Washing Conditions on the Germination Parameters of Three Model Crops

“…Specifically, it significantly affected both RL and GI, but not GN. Not significant changes in GN suggest that biochar did not affect seed endosperm weakening and the emergence of radicles (germination in the strict sense); this is consistent with previous works on maize [ 27 , 28 ], European beech, Turkey oak [ 29 ] and different herbaceous perennial species [ 30 ]. Nevertheless, biochar alone (100% treatments) clearly compromised GN.…”

Effect of Biochar Using N, P, and K Fertilisers on Growth and Quality of Lithocarpus litseifolius

“…A large number of studies have shown that a combination of biochar and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilisers can improve the growth and quality of forest trees, which is important for improving plant yield [21,22]. XiaoLi B et al [23] found that the addition of 1-2% biochar had a significant positive effect on the seed germination, aboveground, and root growth of Robinia pseudoacacia L. Li H et al [24] found that the combination of biochar and chemical fertilisers significantly improved the quality and yield of apples.…”