Corn biochar influences yield attributes of two varieties of chili (Capsicum annuum) in the coastal region

Abstract

A solid biomass pyrolysis byproduct is biochar. The most important uses of this carbon-rich, porous substance are soil enhancement, remediation, and pollution management. Biochar improves soil fertility, water retention, and fertilizer efficiency. Biochar stores plant nutrients, reduces salinity and drought, and neutralizes soil acidity. This component is environmentally favorable. It reduces chemical fertilizer and irrigation as well as lowers farmer costs. Green chili benefits greatly from organic fertilizer. Biochar must pay more attention to this economically valued crop despite its importance. Under a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications, a field experiment determined the best dose to boost chili plant yield. Thus, to determine how two green chili varieties—Bangladeshi local hybrid 'Anal 1701 DG F1' (V1) and Indian hybrid 'Bijlee Plus F1' (V2)—react to different corn biochar doses. The treatments included T1 (Control), T2 (0.1kg/m2), T3 (0.3kg/m2), T4 (0.5kg/m2), and T5 (0.7kg/m2). Using biochar significantly (*p<0.05) increased yield characteristics. Bijlee plus F1 had the highest yield and yield-related parameters above Anal 1701 DG F1. The combination of treatments and varieties yielded the maximum (2.40 ton/ha) in T5V2, while the lowest (0.3134 ton/ha) was in T1V1. Most yield-related characteristics (fruit number per plant, single fruit weight, mature chili length, diameter, and total yield) were achieved from T5 treatment and T5V2 interaction. Corn biochar performed well on green chili varieties and yield-related parameters. The investigation proposed using Bijlee plus F1 variety and 0.7kg/m2 corn biochar (T5) dose to maximize chili production. This is an excellent recommendation for the farmers of coastal areas.