Table 2.

Effects of biochar on plant growth and crop productivity.

Plant Effect	Observed Biochar Benefit	Mechanism or Interaction
Nutrient Uptake	Enhanced uptake of N, P, K, and micronutrients	Improved nutrient availability and retention
Root Development	Better root penetration and architecture	Improved soil structure and reduced compaction
Stress Tolerance	Increased drought and salinity tolerance	Improved water retention and root-zone buffering capacity
Crop Yield	Increased yield in many cases (varies by crop and soil)	Nutrient synergy with organic fertilizers and enhanced soil health
Disease Resistance	Reduced incidence of soilborne pathogens	Microbial competition and pathogen suppression
Germination and Early Growth	Improved seedling establishment	Better moisture and nutrient availability