Assessing the impact of oil palm husk-derived biochar on soil characteristics and tomato yield in Okitipupa, coastal agroecosystems

Abstract

Innovative technologies using biochar were certified to mitigate the impacts of climate change and soil degradation on agriculture and ensure food security. An experiment was carried out in 2022 & 2023 cropping seasons to evaluate the effectiveness of biochar application rates at 10 t/ha, 7.5 t/ha, and 5 t/ha on soil properties and yield parameters of tomato varieties. The experiment was laid out in a RCBD replicated three times. The results show that application at 10 t/ha improved and increased pH, organic carbon, total N, and available P and K. Maximum fruit number/ha (686.2) and harvest weight (3452kg) were recorded at 7.5kg/ha. In comparison, 10 t/ha had the maximum biomass (dry weight) and harvest index compared to those of the control. The rate of 7.5 kg/ha of biochar could improve the yield, nutrient efficiency, and economic benefits of open-field tomato plants. It could be recommended for managing agricultural production.