Biochar is one of the most powerful tools for improving soil health long-term. It is not a fertiliser — it is a soil amendment that creates the conditions for healthy plant growth.
What is Biochar?
Biochar is produced by heating organic material (wood, rice husks, agricultural waste) in a low-oxygen environment — a process called pyrolysis. The result is a highly porous form of carbon that persists in soil for hundreds to thousands of years.
How Biochar Improves Your Soil
1. Water Retention
Biochar's porous structure holds water and slowly releases it to plant roots. In Mauritius conditions where heavy rains alternate with dry spells, this buffering effect is very valuable.
2. Improved Soil Structure
Adding biochar loosens dense or compacted soils, improving aeration and root penetration.
3. Microbial Habitat
The pores in biochar provide habitat for beneficial soil microorganisms — bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that support plant nutrition.
4. Nutrient Retention
Biochar reduces nutrient leaching from the soil, keeping organic fertilisers and compost nutrients available longer.
How to Use Biochar
Application rate:
Mix biochar into soil or compost at 5–10% by volume.
For a 40-litre planting bed, use 2–4 litres of biochar.
Charge the biochar first:
Raw biochar can temporarily reduce nitrogen availability. Before adding to soil, charge it by soaking in compost tea, diluted liquid fertiliser, or worm tea for 24–48 hours. This loads the biochar with nutrients and microbes before application.
When to apply:
- When preparing new garden beds
- When potting seedlings or container plants
- When adding compost to existing beds
Biochar and Compost Together
The best results come from using biochar together with compost or vermicompost. The biochar provides the structure and water retention, while compost provides the nutrients and microbial life.
*Ready to improve your soil? Browse our soil improvement products.*