Biochar and Chickens

Biochar is a stable, carbon rich form of charcoal produced by heating organic waste materials at high temperatures in a low-oxygen environment (a process called pyrolysis). Is biochar the same as charcoal? Whilst they may look similar, there are some key differences between biochar and charcoal. Biochar is produced at much higher temperatures, making it more porous and stable and less likely to decompose than charcoal. Additionally, charcoal produced for barbecuing may contain toxins and impurities, whereas biochar is specifically produced to be clean and improve soil health. What is the difference between pure (uncharged) and charged biochar? Pure (uncharged) biochar is the direct product of pyrolysis, without anything added to it. For soil health, it needs to be enriched with nutrients first, or alternatively can be used for bedding in chicken coops to absorb ammonia, moisture and reduce smell. Charged biochar comes pre-enriched with beneficial natural products, making it a ready to use soil improver straight from the box. Is biochar a fertiliser? No, biochar is not considered a fertiliser as it does not directly supply nutrients to plants. Biochar is a soil conditioner, improving soil health to provide a better growing environment for plants, with in turn, will improve plant health. What is charged biochar enriched with? Our charged bio is enriched with the following: Wormcasts - full of bacterial species, which increase phosphate availability. Stimulate root growth and rich in humic acid. Trichoderma - antagonistic fungi for root protection, seeks out and feeds on fungal pathogens. Mycorrhizal fungi - secondary root system for healthier plants. Gives plants access to more nutrients in the soil. Seaweed - trace minerals for leaf and stem growth. Micronutrients which are essential to healthy root systems. Will I see results immediately? Biochar will not provide a quick fix, as it works on the basis of long term soil improvements to enhance the growing environment for plants. If you’re looking for long-term, sustainable solutions, biochar is for you! Can I use pure biochar as a soil improver? Generally it is not recommended to put pure (uncharged) biochar straight into soil without enriching it first. This is because the natural properties of biochar means that it acts like a sponge, and would initially absorb moisture and nutrients for the soil which would temporarily starve plants.