#biochar in composting

[farmerstrend]

Biochar in Agriculture: Why Kenyan Farmers Should Start Using Biochar for Sustainable Farming

Biochar is an age-old method of improving soil health. The earliest known use of biochar in agriculture was over 2,000 years ago by the pre-Columbian indigenous people of the Amazon Basin. When scientists tested the soil in the area, they noticed how it had remained rich for over eight hundred years. This is because the indigenous people of the Amazon Basin used amended leftover charcoal from…

[captaindomy]

Alternative substrates in the cultivation of ornamental and vegetable plants

Autori: Domenico Prisa 1, * and Stefano Caro 2 1 CREA Research Centre for Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Via dei Fiori 8, 51012 Pescia, PT, Italy. 2 Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, School of Chemical Engineering, Vuorimiehentie 1 00076, Aalto, Espoo Finland. Research Article GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical…

[growingwildgardens]

3 forms of composting in one picture ->

1) Vermicomposting tower: 4 layers with mixtures of cardboard food and clippings. Goal is to let them break down the materials while also producing worm castings that are great for the garden - I've been mixing them with water to uppot things

[ID: 4 visible levels of a black tower, with an open spigot at the bottom pouring into a purple gardening can]

[ID: Worm castings on top of visible grass clippings and worms]

2) Compost ball: Provides an enclosed space that insects & moisture can move in and out of but rodents and my dogs cannot. I use this to break down any food items until they're no longer desirable to any mammals, and then layer them into the main compost pile

[Blue sphere with a closed lid and small holes in it, surrounded by grass clippings and with long dried stalks to its right]

3) Main compost: Shallow hole filled with successive layers of leaves, cardboard, grass and weeds, straw, biochar, decomposed food, broken down stalks and very old wood, and sometimes manure if I have access to any that needs aged.

[ID: A black multi-level worm composting tower on the left, a large pile with cardboard and grass clippings visible in the center, and a blue sphere on top of that with holes throughout.]

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Grist:

For all its plant and animal life aboveground, the Amazon rainforest’s soils are surprisingly poor in nutrients necessary for growing food. Thousands of years ago, the region’s Indigenous peoples solved this problem by creating “terra preta” from table scraps and charcoal and tucking it away in the hostile soil.

Today, that ancient bit of ingenuity is a powerful climate solution. As biomass like trees and crops grow, they sequester carbon in their leaves and branches. Heat that biomass up without fully consuming it and it turns to nearly pure carbon known as biochar, which farmers soak in compost or fertilizer to “charge” it with nutrients, then add to their soils. (In 2023 the global biochar market was worth $600 million, and is expected to grow to $3 billion this year.) That simultaneously improves crop yields and better retains water, all while locking carbon away from the atmosphere. Rising demand from farmers and big business is expected to push the global market for biochar from $600 million two years ago to $3 billion this year. 

The nagging question, though, is exactly how long that carbon stays in the soil. A new study adds to a growing body of evidence that scientists have been underestimating the staying power of biochar, meaning the technology is actually an even more powerful way to store carbon than previously thought. “I’m talking about over 90 percent very easily surviving multi-thousands of years,” said Hamed Sanei, a professor of organic carbon geochemistry at Denmark’s Aarhus University and lead author of the paper published in the journal Biochar. The research suggests that biochar is much more resilient than currently calculated by researchers. “The current model that we’re talking about is saying 30 percent of almost all biochar that’s being produced will be gone in 100 years.”

Nailing down exactly how long biochar can hold onto carbon is crucial for the carbon-removal credit industry, where companies like Microsoft and Google fund projects to draw carbon out of the atmosphere. These credits reached 8 million metric tons of carbon in 2024, a 78 percent jump from the prior year. So scientists have been running experiments monitoring how microbes degrade biochar over a few years in soil, then extrapolating that over longer time scales. Doing that sort of modeling, the U.N.-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and other research groups have reckoned that after a century, between 63 and 82 percent of the biochar will stay in the ground.

[jeanjauthor]

Don't forget that sometimes what seems to be garbage that you're dumping on that fallow ground is actually compostable materials that will act as mulch, shading the soil from sun & wind, keeping it moist longer during dry stretches, and adding in random bits of micronutrients that the standard nitrogen-phosphorus-calcium fertilizers don't even touch. (Think of it like a diet of carbs. Sure you're getting fed, but you're going to slowly starve to death without fats & complete proteins in sufficient amounts, plus there are body-specific vitamins & amino acids that a meat-free diet CANNOT replace in sufficient quantities on such a diet...)

So go ahead and "play some garbage video games" or "watch a garbage tv show" or whatever that "has no actual value." "Uh, yeah, it has some value. It's adding micronutrients to my soil so that my mental worms and microrhizoidal fungi can break it down and turn it into bioavailable nutrients. Same goes for biochar."

...Just don't feed your mind toxic BS, because once those poisons and heavy metals are in the soil, it's contaminated for a long, long time...

Mental Crop Rotation

When farmers grow the same crop too many years in a row, it can leave their soil depleted of minerals and other nutrients that are vital to the health of their fields.

To avoid this, farmers will often alternate the crops that they grow because some plants will use up different minerals (such as nitrogen) while other plants replenish those minerals. This process is known as “crop rotation.”

So the next time you find that you need to step away from a project to work on something else for a while, don’t beat yourself up for “quitting” that project. Give yourself permission to practice “mental crop rotation” to maintain a healthy brain field.

Because I’ve found that when that unnecessary guilt and pressure are removed from the process, a good mental crop rotation can help you feel more energized and invigorated than ever once you’re ready to rotate back to that project.

[harrysonworking]

Innovative Tools for Sustainable Agriculture & Carbon Removal

As the climate crisis accelerates, the agricultural sector finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. Conventional farming practices, once essential for feeding growing populations, are now seen as major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. In response, a transformative shift toward sustainable agriculture is emerging—not just to reduce harm, but to heal the planet. At the forefront of this evolution is the dual goal of growing food responsibly while removing carbon from the atmosphere. Sustainable agriculture & carbon removal are no longer separate concepts but part of a vital, unified strategy to ensure food security and climate resilience.

The Role of Agriculture in Climate Change Agriculture accounts for a significant percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from methane released by livestock and nitrous oxide from fertilized soils. Deforestation for farmland and the use of fossil-fuel-based machinery only compound the issue. Yet, agriculture also holds incredible potential to reverse this damage. When strategically managed, farms can act as carbon sinks, absorbing more carbon than they emit and transforming from contributors to solutions.

Sustainable Agriculture Practices That Support Carbon Removal Sustainable agriculture is not just about minimizing environmental harm but also about enhancing soil health, promoting biodiversity, and capturing atmospheric carbon. Practices such as no-till farming, cover cropping, crop rotation, and organic fertilization are key components. These methods not only reduce emissions but actively promote soil carbon storage, making them central to modern climate-smart agriculture.

Carbon Sequestration: The Soil as a Climate Ally Healthy soils are rich in organic matter and act as powerful carbon sinks. By encouraging microbial activity and minimizing soil disturbance, farmers can enhance the ability of their fields to trap carbon for decades. Composting and the use of natural mulches further enrich soil organic content, boosting its carbon-holding capacity and overall fertility.

Agroforestry, Biochar, and Regenerative Techniques Agroforestry integrates trees with crops and livestock, promoting carbon capture through root systems and canopy coverage. Biochar, a form of charcoal added to soil, locks carbon away while improving soil structure. Regenerative agriculture combines multiple sustainable practices to rebuild topsoil, restore biodiversity, and enhance water cycles, offering a comprehensive framework for carbon-negative farming.

Technology and Innovation in Sustainable Agriculture Modern tools like satellite monitoring, AI-driven crop management, and blockchain for supply chain transparency are accelerating the shift to sustainable agriculture. These technologies help farmers optimize resource use, predict yields more accurately, and measure carbon outcomes. Precision agriculture allows for tailored interventions that support sustainability without sacrificing productivity.

Policy and Global Collaboration Government incentives, international agreements, and private investments are critical in scaling sustainable agriculture & carbon removal solutions. Programs that reward carbon farming, support renewable energy integration, and finance green infrastructure are gaining traction. Countries are increasingly incorporating soil health and sustainable land use into their climate strategies, reflecting a global shift in priorities.

Challenges and the Path Forward Despite its promise, the transition to sustainable agriculture faces challenges including financial barriers, lack of awareness, and resistance to change in traditional farming communities. Overcoming these hurdles requires education, policy support, and collaboration across sectors. Continued research, farmer training, and accessible tools are essential to make sustainable practices the global norm.

For more info : https://bi-journal.com/sustainable-agriculture-and-carbon-removal-solutions/

Conclusion Sustainable agriculture & carbon removal are not mere trends; they are essential pathways for securing the planet’s future. By shifting our agricultural systems toward practices that heal rather than harm, we can feed a growing population while pulling harmful carbon from the atmosphere. It is a solution that not only sustains but regenerates, paving the way for a healthier planet and a more resilient food system.

[yo-sostenible]

Un enfoque permacultural para diseñar ecosistemas productivos y sostenibles Ilustración macrovector Un bosque comestible es una inversión a largo plazo que regenera el ecosistema y ofrece abundancia. Introducción ¿Qué es un bosque comestible? Un bosque comestible es un ecosistema diseñado por humanos que imita la estructura y funciones de un bosque natural, pero con especies productivas (frutales, hortalizas, hierbas, etc.). Combina árboles, arbustos, hierbas y raíces en capas interdependientes, creando un sistema autosostenible. ✓ Beneficios: Biodiversidad: Atrae polinizadores y controla plagas de forma natural. Sostenibilidad: Reduce el riego y fertilizantes externos. Resiliencia: Adaptado al clima y suelo local. Alimento y recursos: Produce comida, madera, medicinas y forraje. Principios Básicos Éticas de la permacultura: Cuidado de la tierra, cuidado de las personas, repartición justa. Ecología aplicada: Sucesión natural, ciclos de nutrientes y simbiosis entre especies. Diseño por capas: 7 estratos para maximizar el espacio y recursos. Diseño del Bosque Comestible A. Análisis del Sitio Clima: Zona de rusticidad, precipitaciones, microclimas. Suelo: pH, textura, materia orgánica (haz una prueba básica). Topografía: Identifica zonas húmedas, pendientes y exposición al sol. B. Planificación de Capas Copa (árboles altos): Nogales, castaños (zonas templadas); mango, aguacate (trópicos). Subcopa (árboles medianos): Manzanos, cerezos; guayabo, cítricos. Arbustos: Grosellas, frambuesas; café, moringa. Herbáceas: Espinacas, albahaca; hierbas medicinales. Cobertura del suelo: Fresas, trébol; boniato. Raíces: Zanahorias, jengibre; yuca. Trepadoras: Uvas, chayote; maracuyá. C. Selección de Plantas Prioriza especies perennes y nativas. Crea gremios: Asocia plantas que se beneficien mutuamente (ej: árbol frutal + arbusto fijador de nitrógeno + hierbas repelentes de plagas). Sucesión natural: Incluye plantas pioneras (leguminosas) para mejorar el suelo inicial. D. Diseño del Espacio Zonas: Ubica especies de uso frecuente cerca de la vivienda (Zona 1-2). Sectores: Considera vientos, sol y flujo de agua. Implementación Paso a Paso A. Preparación del Terreno Despeja malezas sin labranza profunda (usa acolchado o láminas de cartón). Mejora el suelo: Añade compost, biochar o abono verde. B. Plantación Inicia con pioneras: Leguminosas (algarrobo, guisantes) para fijar nitrógeno. Planta en gremios: Ejemplo clásico: Árbol central: Manzano. Arbustos: Grosellas (aportan fruta y atraen polinizadores). Herbáceas: Consuelda (acumula nutrientes) y ajos (repelen plagas). Cobertura: Trébol (fija nitrógeno). C. Manejo del Agua Swales (zanjas de infiltración): En pendientes, captan agua de lluvia. Riego por goteo: Útil en etapas iniciales. Mantenimiento Acolchado: Mantiene humedad y controla malezas (usa hojas, paja). Poda estratégica: Estimula la producción y circulación de aire. Control de plagas: Atrae depredadores naturales (plantas con flores para insectos beneficiosos). Fertilidad del suelo: Renueva con compost y cultivos de cobertura. Retos comunes: Malezas: Controla con cobertura densa y plantas competitivas. Suelo pobre: Incorpora biofertilizantes (té de compost). Ejemplo Práctico Bosque urbano en clima mediterráneo: Copa: Almendro y olivo. Subcopa: Higuera y granado. Arbustos: Romero, lavanda. Herbáceas: Espárragos, orégano. Trepadoras: Vid en pérgolas. Recursos Adicionales Libros: Permacultura Práctica de Jessi Bloom; Bosques de Alimentos de Martin Crawford. Cursos: Plataformas como Coursera o Permacultura Hispania. Comunidades: Redes de permacultura locales y grupos en Facebook/Reddit. 🌳 “Planta un bosque y alimentarás a generaciones.” 🌳 Nota: Adapta cada paso a tu contexto local y sé paciente; un bosque maduro puede tomar 5-10 años en alcanzar su plenitud.

[tameblog]

While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. Handle Length: 14-1/2 in. Overall Length: 14.5 in. Head Material: Aluminum. Handle Color: Red. A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately. Source link

[thekitchenywitch]

No no no, I don’t think you guys understand how big that is that person just made *biochar*. This is made by firing any kind of biomass at a heat hot enough that it becomes similar to fucking charcoal. My aunt and uncle met because of this stuff. My uncle works as a chef and a professor at a local college that is very proud of how they handle waste, composting what they can and all that. Well my aunt was taking a tour of the college my uncle works at and the topic came up about how most of the waste they couldn’t reuse was bones, and my aunt is an environmental scientist and explained to him that they could use the left over bones to make biochar. Biochar literally caused the marriage of my uncle. Not only that but it’s a pretty good option for lowering carbon footprints. It is literally something that take hours to develop in very high temperatures And this person made it not once but TWICE while attempting to cook.

(I apologize for the rant)

[ramestoryworld]

While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. Handle Length: 14-1/2 in. Overall Length: 14.5 in. Head Material: Aluminum. Handle Color: Red. A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately. Source link

[alexha2210]

While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. Handle Length: 14-1/2 in. Overall Length: 14.5 in. Head Material: Aluminum. Handle Color: Red. A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately. Source link

[angusstory]

While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. Handle Length: 14-1/2 in. Overall Length: 14.5 in. Head Material: Aluminum. Handle Color: Red. A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately. Source link

[tumibaba]

While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. Handle Length: 14-1/2 in. Overall Length: 14.5 in. Head Material: Aluminum. Handle Color: Red. A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately. Source link

[romaleen]

While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. Handle Length: 14-1/2 in. Overall Length: 14.5 in. Head Material: Aluminum. Handle Color: Red. A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately. Source link

[monaleen101]

While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. Handle Length: 14-1/2 in. Overall Length: 14.5 in. Head Material: Aluminum. Handle Color: Red. A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. With adjustable tine spacing: suitable for raking coarse and fine material. Flexible, zinc-plated spring-steel prongs. Working width adjustable from 12-20 inches. Sold as head only, handle sold separately. Source link

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While biochar is by no means new, it is relatively new to the world of horticulture as a mainstream soil amendment. But what is it exactly? Biochar is a substance that is created by burning organic material in an oxygen-deprived environment. This results in a highly stable form of carbon. Scientists call it “recalcitrant carbon” because it can remain in soil for decades, perhaps even millennia. The long history of biochar as a soil amendment Biochar has been used by indigenous peoples in the Amazon basin for at least 2,000 years. Sites that have historically been treated this way contain highly fertile soils called terra preta that have elevated levels of carbon, thanks to the stable biochar in the soils. Amazonian farmers developed these terra preta soils by incorporating charcoal with pottery shards and organic matter, and these soils remain fertile to this day. The value of biochar for modern agriculture was first recognized by the Dutch soil scientist Wim Sombroek in the 1950s. He observed highly fertile soils in the Amazon near less productive acidic soils and began a lifetime of studies dedicated to understanding the cause of increased fertility in terra preta soils. This technician is adding poultry waste to a pyrolysis reactor to make biochar. Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA How biochar is made and where to buy it Modern biochar is created by burning organic materials at 350°C (662°F) to 700°C (1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. This can be done in a highly technical way using a pyrolysis reactor, or by a home gardener who has constructed a biochar kiln. Another method is to stack organic materials ranging in size from 1 to 10 inches thick and then set them on fire starting from the top. This creates a low-oxygen environment, which slowly transforms the organic materials into biochar over the course of hours depending on the size of the piles. It is critical to quench the coals with water or rake them out before they turn to ash. One example of this method can be found in forest management. Forest undergrowth cleared to reduce forest fire risk is a promising organic material source for biochar, which can then be reapplied to marginal forest soils. While this is how biochar is made, it is readily available at many garden centers, nurseries, and agricultural supply stores for purchase in different quantities. What does biochar actually do to soil? When applied to soils, biochar can provide many soil health benefits. These include: improving water availability and drainage providing habitat for soil microbes increasing nutrient availability in the soil increasing the soil’s ability to retain certain nutrients, otherwise known as its cation exchange capacity, or CEC sequestering carbon It also has potential for remediating polluted soils because it can bind heavy metals from interacting with plants and soil organisms. Materials that can be used to make biochar Organic source materials for biochar production range from vineyard cuttings (i.e., vines removed during the pruning process), manure, food waste, and crop residues. The material used to create biochar greatly influences its properties, most notably the nutrient content of the source material. Manure, for example, produces biochar with higher phosphorus than that created using wood chips. If you are planning to try biochar in your garden, it is important to “charge” or “activate” the biochar prior to use. Uncharged or inactivated biochar absorbs nutrients, potentially binding them up and making them unavailable to your plants. How to activate biochar Fortunately, it is relatively easy to activate biochar. One of the most effective ways is to mix it with compost, add enough water for it to be moist, and let it stand for 7 to 21 days prior to applying it to your soil. You can then incorporate the mix directly into your garden. Other methods of activating biochar include mixing it with manure, compost tea, or even liquid fertilizer. Most commercially available sources of biochar are already activated. It is worth confirming this with the manufacturer prior to purchase. Biochar has been tilled into this soil to increase crop yields. Photo: GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons How to add biochar to your soil There are multiple recommended methods for incorporating biochar into soil or potting mixes, including topdressing, adding it to the planting hole, and adding it to the soil before tillage. Spring applications are usually recommended, but fall is fine, assuming you plant a cover crop or take other precautions to reduce erosion or nutrient runoff. How much biochar you should add to your soil The recommended volume of biochar to add as an amendment is significant, with recommended rates ranging from 5% to 20% by volume. So it is most feasible to use biochar in container plantings, to get trees off to a good start, in small-scale gardens, and in landscaping. It is an amendment that generally is not applied repeatedly but valued more for its long-term effects, making it a great option for perennial systems including vineyards and orchards. Which soils benefit the most from biochar, and which do not? Biochar is not equally beneficial for all soils or all cropping systems. It is best used on lower quality soils, soils with compaction and drainage issues, sandy soils, and those with a low pH (acidic). It has been used in place of lime to correct soil acidity. In contrast, soils naturally high in organic matter, those with a high pH or CEC, and clay soils will likely show far less improvement from biochar. Due to the cost of biochar as an amendment, it is not feasible for most large-scale farming operations, but it is worth trying for home gardens and container plantings, and for getting perennials off to a good start. Biochar is not a replacement for other sources of carbon, but when used alongside more traditional soil amendments like regular applications of compost, it can be a useful and sustainable addition to a garden soil management plan.   To discuss this article or ask other gardening questions, head over to the Gardening Answers forum. For more Southeast regional reports, click here. Kirsten Kurtz received her master of science degree from Cornell University and is now the assistant director of the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory. Fine Gardening Recommended Products Corona E-Grip Trowel Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs. Handle Material: Aluminum. 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