![]() ![]() The increasing demand for soilless substrates and rising environmental concerns about the use of non-renewable resources such as peat has led to the search for alternative constituents of growing mixtures for containerized plants. A better understanding of the effect of higher biochar application rates as well as the number of times the potting medium can be reused without loss of potting medium properties and health can help to further cut nursery cost and reduce reliance on peat moss. Plant height was found to be the most accurate yet simple monitoring parameter studied. In addition, organic fertiliser is not required during the first 3 months of cultivation resulting in cost savings to the nursery operator. Our results demonstrated that biochar can substitute at least 5% (w/w) peat moss without negatively affecting plant height, collar diameter, number of leaves and branches, and plant health. Liquid fish fertiliser was used as organic fertiliser. Plant height, collar diameter, pH, moisture content, number of branches and leaves, and plant health were monitored weekly for 94 days. Durian seedlings were grown in 2.5 L polybags arranged in randomised complete block design with 4 replicates per treatment. Biochar was produced from durian wood logs in a top-quenched Kon-Tiki earth kiln, crushed, and mixed with peat moss at dosages of 0, 1, 2.5 and 5% (w/w). ![]() This research seeks to explore whether wood biochar produced by the environment-friendly flame curtain method can partially substitute peat moss in plant nurseries without affecting plant growth and health. The extensive use of peat moss as potting medium in nurseries worldwide is not sustainable causing peatland depletion and greenhouse gas emissions. ![]()
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