Growth and yield of soybean varieties with biochar application

Abstract

Climate change cause a temperature increase, decreasing soil fertility and causing a reduced microbial and nutrient availability, and increased salinization, so it cannot support the growth of soybean plants. Soybeans are vulnerable to climate change, which can lead to lower yields. Biochar is an organic material that can improve soil's physical, chemical, and biological fertility. This study aims to obtain soybean varieties and biochar types that increase growth and yield in low soil fertility cultivation. This research was conducted in August 2022 – June 2023 at the Agricultural Faculty Experimental Field of Universitas Sebelas Maret. The research was designed in randomized complete block design factorial with three replications. The first factor was soybean varieties, and the second factor was types of biochar. Data analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by DMRT 5% if there was a significant difference. The results showed that Demas 1 variety significantly affects growth and yield with biochar addition compared to Dena 1 and Gepak Kuning. The addition of rice husk biochar can increase the growth and yield of 3 soybean varieties, compared to the addition of sugar palm fiber biochar and without the addition of biochar.