We use cookies on our website. Some are necessary for the operation of the website. You can also allow cookies for statistical purposes. You can adjust the data protection settings or agree to all cookies directly.
Data Protection Declaration
Imprint
Use of co-composted biochar for improvement of growth of hop root cutting in copper polluted soils
Project
Project code: A/21/08
Contract period: 15.09.2021
- 14.08.2023
Budget: 95,813 Euro
Purpose of research: Applied research
Background
Due to the application of high amounts of copper-based fungicides over decades, a considerable proportion of soils in hop-growing areas is copper-polluted. As copper is strongly bound to soil organic matter or is precipitated as oxides, hydroxides or carbonates, it has accumulated in the topsoil up to 20 cm depth. Besides the general negative effects on soil fertility, e.g. by impairing growth of soil microorganism or earthworms, also hop yield might be affected. Especially in the first two years after planting hop plants, as long as root growth is restricted to the topsoil, plants can suffer from copper surplus. The targeted application of co-composted biochar to the plant hole might prevent this problem. The sorption of copper to biochar is extensively described in the literature, also the results of an ongoing research project on sustainable preservation and optimization of soil fertility by biochar-composts (project code G2/KS/19/04) show positive effects of co-composted biochars on soil micro and meso fauna as well as a reduction of copper uptake by plants.
Objective
Based on the results of the ongoing research project a field trial under practical conditions will be done to assess the effect of co-composted biochar on growth of hop root cuttings in a copper polluted soil. Based on the results practical recommendations for the use of co-composted biochar in hop cultivation should be made.
Methodical approach
In the first step, chopped hop bines are composted with and without an EBC certificated biochar. The mature composts are applied in increasing amounts to a copper polluted soil and root cuttings are planted. During the following two vegetation periods, growth of hop plants as well as appearance of toxicity symptoms is rated continuously and leaf samples for analysis of copper uptake are taken. At the end of the vegetation period plants are cut back, biomass and copper uptake is measured. Furthermore, after the second vegetation period root samples are taken, and analyzed for copper. Additionally, root system of selected plants is excavated.
Section overview
Subjects
- Crop Production
- Specialised crops
