Effects of Different Biochar Types on Rhizosphere Soil Ecology, Yield, and Quality of Tomato under Brackish Water Irrigation
摘要
The purpose of this research was to examine how various types of biochar influence the ecological characteristics, productivity, and quality of the rhizosphere soil of tomatoes when irrigated with brackish water. The study aimed to assess the viability of biochar as a solution to the challenges posed by soil salinity from brackish water irrigation while also enhancing both the yield and quality of the tomato crop. Experimental sites were situated in Jinning District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China. Three distinct application rates (L = 7.5 t·ha⁻1, M = 15 t·ha⁻1, H = 22.5 t·ha⁻1) of raw biochar and KOH-modified biochar (KB) were established, along with a biochar-free control group (CK). The effects of different biochar treatments were analyzed by measuring the physicochemical, soil biological, and biotic properties of the soil and tomato growth characteristics, yield, and quality. The study findings demonstrated that biochar application significantly improved soil health by enhancing physical and chemical properties, shifting soil pH from strongly acidic toward neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, increasing soil organic carbon content, improving nutrient availability, and stimulating soil microbial and enzymatic activity. High application rates of both raw biochar (BCH) and KOH-modified biochar (KBH) exhibited more pronounced improvements compared to the control (CK). Tomato growth indicators, yield, and quality were also significantly enhanced. In conclusion, KOH-modified biochar, in particular, has the potential to enhance the soil ecosystem, leading to an increase in both tomato yield and quality under brackish water irrigation. This makes it a valuable strategy for managing the agricultural potential of saline soils.