Abstract:
Soil Moisture content decreases as global temperatures rise and increases water scarcity due to climate change. In the present research two different biochar concentrations were applied on tomato plants under two field capacities (45% severe stress, 75% moderate stress) to assess the biochar role as soil amendment under drought stress. The results imply that biochar has a favorable effect on root growth, potentially improving plant biomass (fresh and dry weight), root length, primary, secondary and lateral/crown roots as compare with control. According to the study the application of 5% biochar at the 45% and 75% field capacity (FC) yields the most pronounced positive outcomes in terms of root architecture and hormone concentration. Low proline (33% to 60%) and ABA (30% to 28%) content release in 5% treatment both at 45% and 75% treatment. Biochar treatment with addition of 3%, also showed positive effect with respect to control (0% biochar treatment). The study highlights the possibility of using biochar to modify the root architecture and root exudation of tomato plants to minimize the effects of drought stress. The research intricate relationships that exist between biochar, water availability and root physiology, laying the groundwork for the best possible biochar administration methods.
