Biochar or Horticultural charcoal is a magic combination of science and history.

It has been known to Horticulturists for hundreds of years that adding
carbon to a bed improves plant growth, but now we understand the science behind it.

So what is Biochar?

Small fine particles of carbon produced by burning wood in the absence of oxygen, formed as part of our charcoal making process.

Biochar is used as a soil ameliorant for both carbon sequestration and soil health benefits. Horticultural charcoal is a stable form of carbon and can endure in soil for long periods.

How is it used?

Biochar can be added to a compost heap supercharge the biochar. By mixing a small amount into the compost heap you can fix nutrients far more effectively meaning they are held within the structure for far longer.

It can also be added directly to a bed and dug in with compost as this again will fix nutrients within the soil and allow it be be released of over a much longer period.

It also holds water in the soil and can be used on both beds and lawns to reduce both waterlogging and drought. For many years the likes of Wimbledon tennis club have been using biochar as a dressing for centre court.

You can also infuse your biochar with a tea of Comfrey or other suitable fertiliser.

The advantages of Biochar

As well as fixing nutrients and water into your soil structure biochar has been found to increase the growth of Mycorrhizae which in turn help your plants grow stronger.