Effects of Biochar and NPK Fertilizers on Maize (Zea mays L.) Growth, Yield and Soil Properties of Yamoussoukro (sol-Y)

Abstract

This study evaluates the effect of the separate application of biochar and NPK on the growth, yield and quality of maize (Zea mays L.) grains grown in the soil of Yamoussoukro. The experimental setup in the greenhouse and in the field is a completely randomized Filer block comprising four and three distinct treatments respectively, with three replicates. In the greenhouse, three doses of biochar (2%, 5%, 10%) were tested, while in the field, treatments consisted of biochar alone (2 t/ha) and NPK alone (250 kg/ha). The parameters measured included stem height and diameter, number of leaves, yield, and 1000-grain weight. In the greenhouse, the 5% dose of biochar promoted the best growth, with an average height of 179.33 cm, a stem diameter of 8.93 mm and 7.67 leaves, while the 2% and 10% doses and the control showed lower values. In the field, the biochar application produced a yield of 3.94 t/ha and a 1000-grain weight of 315.63 g, while the NPK application yielded 4.06 t/ha and a weight of 316.5 g. These values ​​are statistically similar and significantly higher than the control (1.33 t/ha and 246 g). These results indicate that biochar, even when applied alone, can improve maize growth, yield, and grain quality in a manner comparable to NPK. The study highlights the potential of biochar as a sustainable soil amendment in Yamoussoukro, capable of supporting maize productivity while improving soil fertility and health.