How Does Biochar Work in Soil

Biochar retains nutrients in soil directly through the negative charge that develops on its surfaces, and this negative charge can buffer acidity in the soil, as does organic matter in general. … These simple forms are those in which plants take the nutrients up through their roots.

How does biochar help soil?

Biochar reduces soil density and soil hardening, increases soil aeration and cation-exchange capacity, and changes the soil structure and consistency through the changes in physical and chemical properties. It also helps to reclaim degraded soils.

How much biochar do I add to soil?

A good rule of thumb is one quart of biochar per square foot of soil, so a gallon does four square feet and a cubic foot of biochar will cover 30 square feet.