Enriched biochar fertilizers improve the soil biological and chemical properties in direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Abstract

A field experiment was initiated at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand during kharif (rainy) season of 2018. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of enriched biochar (EB) fertilizers on growth, productivity, nutrients-use efficiency (NUE) and soil quality in direct seeded rice (DSR). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with eight treatments i.e. 100% Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through conventional fertilizers, 75, 100 and 125% RDF through EB-1+UEB1 (Urea enriched biochar), 75, 100 and 125% RDF through EB-2+UEB-2 and control replicated thrice. Application of EB-2+UEB-2 had significant impact on enhancing the soil enzymes like dehydrogenase, urease and alkaline phosphatase activity at active flowering stage. The soil dehydrogenase, urease and alkaline phosphatase activity were higher under application of 125% RDF through EB-2+UEB-2, though it was statistically at par with application of EB-2+UEB-2 at 100% RDF level and EB-1+UEB-1 at 125% RDF level. These three soil enzymes activity recorded from application of 100% RDF through conventional fertilizers was lower compared to application of EB and UEB at higher and same fertility level. Available nitrogen and phosphorus content in soil also recorded highest with the application of 125% RDF through EB-2+UEB-2 as nutrient source.