The Effect of Sugarcane Bagasse Biochar on Maize Growth Factors in Lead and Cadmium-Polluted Soils

Abstract

ABSTRACT Various techniques are employed nowadays to lessen the harmful consequences of high soil levels of heavy metals (HMs). In this instance, a relatively novel technique to lessen the toxicity of HMs is the use of biochar. In this study, a pot experiment with a randomized complete block design was carried out to examine the impact of sugarcane bagasse biochar (SBB) on enhancing the development of maize in Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) polluted soil. The variables included planting maize in sandy clay loam soil, which was done in two separate experiments for Cd and Pb, as well as three levels of SBB (0, 2, and 4% by weight), three levels of Cd (0, 40 and 80 mg kg−1 of soil from CdSO4.8 H2O, and three levels of Pb (0, 400 and 800 mg kg−1 of soil from PbSO4). A single application of SBB in 40 and 80 mg kg−1 Cd-soil significantly increased roots and shoots dry weight by 21.0 and 17.14% and 57.14 and 32.36%, respectively compared to control. A single application of SBB in 400 and 800 mg kg−1 Pb-soil significantly increased roots and shoots dry weight by 39.55 and 12.71% and 57.46 and 26.29%, respectively compared to control. SBB increased chlorophyll index, leaf area, plant height and dry weight of roots and shoots due to a decrease in the concentration of Cd and Pb in the roots and shoots. It can be concluded that SBB addition to HMs-contaminated soils is a suitable remedial action that will enhance plant growth.