Biochar Particle Size Found to Shape Disease Control in Crops

A new study reveals that not all biochar works the same way in protecting crops from disease. Researchers have discovered that the particle size of biochar determines how effectively and how long it can suppress soil-borne pathogens, offering new insights for sustainable agriculture.

Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from plant biomass, has gained attention for improving soil health and reducing plant diseases. However, until now, scientists did not fully understand how physical properties such as particle size influence its performance.

In this study, researchers investigated how fine and coarse biochar affect pepper plants suffering from Phytophthora blight, a devastating disease caused by the pathogen Phytophthora capsici. Their findings show that particle size controls the timing and durability of disease suppression by regulating how biochar releases nutrients and organic compounds into the soil.

“Our results demonstrate that biochar is not a one-size-fits-all solution,” said the study’s lead author. “Fine biochar acts quickly but loses effectiveness over time, while coarse biochar provides a slower yet more sustained protective effect.”