2014 ASHS Annual Conference

We evaluated the poultry litter pyrolysis co-product biochar as a potential phosphorus (P) fertilizer source and overall soil amendment for the Mid-Atlantic’s fresh market tomato industry. Mid-Atlantic soils utilized for vegetable production are typically sandy loam soils with low organic matter, low water holding capacity, and a low cation exchange capacity. After pyrolysis, any concerns regarding bacterial contamination in growing fresh vegetables is eliminated and biochar retains high concentrations of P, nitrogen (N), and potassium (K). We tested biochar in a 2 P source (biochar and inorganic P fertilizer) × 3 P rate (biochar at 8,961, 17,922, and 26,884 kg ha-1) factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design using alpha = 0.10. Yield and aboveground biomass production were used for treatment comparison. In 2011, marketable tomato yield increased as biochar rate increased. However, salt injury reduced yields and plant biomass in 2012. Farmers need to consider quality of biochar when selecting soil amendment products. More research needs to be completed to fully understand the potentials and problems with using co-products in the marketplace and Mid-Atlantic crop productions systems.