Biochar as growing substrate component for potted Murraya paniculata

Biochar soil amendment can boost plant productivity by improving the soil's biological, chemical, and physical properties. Up to date few studies were conducted on the use of biochar as partial substitute of peat in growing substrates for the horticultural and nursey industries, even less for the production of containerized ornamentals. With the aim to evaluate the agronomical performances of conifers wood biochar as a component for peat-reduced soilless substrates for ornamental species, a greenhouse experiment was carried out on potted Murraya paniculata (L.) Jacq. Plants were grown using the following mixtures: 0, 25, and 50% (v/v). Biochar amendment of substrates significantly affected growth and ornamental quality of potted Murrayas as a decrease of plant height, leaf area, leaf numbers, flower production, biomass yield and water use efficiency was recorded when plants were grown with 50% biochar. Highest values were observed with 0 and 25% biochar. Our results seem to suggest that conifers wood biochar could be used up to 25% as component in peat-based substrates for potted Murrayas.