Efficiency of Biochar in Combination with Compost or Sugar Lime Mud for Improving Growth Performance and Nutritional Status of Wheat Plant

Agriculture in sandy soils, one of the most degraded soils in Egypt, faces numerous challenges. So, a field trial was implemented during two consecutive seasons (2022/2023 and 2023/2024) on sandy soil using wheat as experimental plant. A split-plot design was used, as biochar represented the main factor (B0: Without biochar, B1: Biochar at rate of 0.4%, B2: Biochar at rate of 0.8%), while compost and sugar lime mud treatments represented the sub main factor (C0: Without soil conditioners,C1: Compost at rate of 1.0%, C2: Compost at rate of 2.0%,C3: Sugar lime mud at rate of 1.0%, C4: sugar lime mud at rate of 2.0%). All amendments were applied only once before the first season to evaluate the direct effect in the 1st season and residual effect in the 2nd season. Measurements included straw fresh and dry weights as well as NPK contents and uptake in straw. The results indicate that the addition of biochar at a concentration of 0.8%, had a positive and effective impact on improving plant growth and the absorption of major nutrients in wheat, both in the first season (as a direct effect) and the second season (as a residual effect). C2 treatment showed superiority in improving straw fresh and dry weights, NPK contents and uptake, followed by the C3 treatment. Overall, the sustainability of agricultural production can be enhanced by using biochar, compost, and sugar lime mud to improve sandy soil fertility and increase the efficiency of nutrient absorption.