Optimizing Dalbergia sisoo Biochar Application Rates: Effects on Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Wheat Landraces

Biochar, also known as fine-grained carbonaceous charcoal, is made by pyrolyzing organic feedstock and improves soil health over time. The effects of adding Dalbergia sisoo’s branches made biochar on seedling growth characteristics, particularly in wheat landraces, are examined in this study. T1 (0% w/w), T2 (1% w/w), T3 (4% w/w), T4 (8% w/w), and T5 (16% w/w) were the five treatments (biochar application rates) in the CRD design that was being evaluated. The findings showed that although biochar had no significant effect on the germination rate, it significantly altered the mean germination time; the fastest germination was achieved with an 8% biochar treatment. The dry weight did not differ significantly between treatments. With a moisture level of 4%, the seedling had the highest. High biochar application (16%) significantly reduced shoot, root, and seedling lengths, with the most favourable growth observed at lower concentrations particularly 4% for shoot length, 0% for root length, and 8% for seedling length. The seed vigor index was much greater at 4% biochar. Overall, this study demonstrates that adding biochar to soil might enhance seedling establishment; the greatest results are obtained at low dosages (4%–8%). The need for careful control of biochar application rates in agronomic techniques is