Impact of Poultry Litter Biochar on Soil Fertility and Radish Growth: Environmental Health and Water Quality Considerations

Excessive poultry litter biochar (PLB) is a promising soil amendment for improving soil quality and enhancing carbon sequestration. However, understanding the effects of different PLB production conditions and application rates on plant growth and soil health is still limited. This study investigates the impact of pyrolysis temperature, bedding materials type in poultry litter, and biochar application rates on soil fertility and radish (Raphanus sativus L.) growth. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, featuring 12 treatments with four replications. Treatments varied by pyrolysis temperatures (300°C and 500°C), bedding materials (pure poultry litter, 10% pine shavings, and 10% rice hulls), and application rates (2% and 5% by weight). An un-amended soil treatment was included as a control. Soil fertility changes were evaluated. The findings indicated that biochar-amended soils exhibited significant enrichment in essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), leading to enhanced radish growth. Two percent application rate show better results compared with 5%. These results demonstrate that PLB can play a critical role in soil fertility enhancement while repurposing poultry litter waste. This research highlights the environmental health benefits of incorporating solid waste-derived biochar into soil management practices, aligning with sustainable practices that address the lifecycle of solid waste management.