Abstract:
Biochar has recently become an interesting option for soil management
in terms of nutrients depleted lands, which is now emerging as an increasing global
concern. Since biochar is derived from biomass, they are high in carbon and may
contain a range of plant macro- and micronutrients. In addition, the physical microstructure
of biochar may crucially influence the role of biochar on plant nutrient
uptake determining access to mineralized elements by soil solution, microorganisms,
and plant roots. The beneficial use of biochar as a soil amendment in terms of
increased crop yield and improved soil quality has been reported. This book chapter
extensively discusses the influential nutrients in biochars and their effects on plant
nutrient uptake. Further, alteration of the mechanism of nutrient uptake via biochar
modification and the effect on nutrient transformation in soil have been reviewed.
Biochar impacts on nutrient uptake by different plants under different environmental
and soil conditions are not fully understood yet. This chapter will provide insights
for future research directions in order to establish an effective biochar-plant nutrient
interaction.
