Effect of hydrochar on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) growth, the soil organic matter and microbial activity in a planted-fallow rotation soils.

Abstract

Hydrothermal technologies are considered promising for producing valuable products like hydrochar from renewable biomass waste. Hydrochar (HC), acting as a hopeful substitute for current commercial fertilizers, has the potential to serve as a soil amendment, improving soil quality, microbial activity, and crop production. However, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of hydrochar biogeochemical processes and their effects on planted soils is still challenging. Additionally, there is limited knowledge about the effects under deficit irrigation conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the interaction between treated soil, plants, and microorganisms on soil organic matter (SOM), soil nutrients, microbial activity, plant growth, and irrigation management in soils.