Effect of biochar type on planting media with different weight metal containments of Pb, Cd, and CR on growth, results, and quality of corn (Zea mays L.) results

Tea, Diva Nathalie Pingkan Cesyalinique and Rai, I Nyoman and Mayadewi, Ni Nyoman Ari (2025) Effect of biochar type on planting media with different weight metal containments of Pb, Cd, and CR on growth, results, and quality of corn (Zea mays L.) results. Open Access Research Journal of Science and Technology, 14 (2). 065-074. ISSN 2782-9960

Utilizing the Badung River, which contains heavy metals, as agricultural irrigation poses risks to crop yields and human health due to metal absorption by plants. Biochar has potential for remediating such contaminants. This study aimed to assess the impact of different concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, and Cr) in planting media and determine the most effective biochar type for enhancing corn growth, yield, and quality. A randomized group design was used with two factors: heavy metal concentrations (0 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm) and biochar types (rice straw and husk, coconut shell and husk, vegetable and fruit waste), totaling nine treatment combinations and 27 experimental units. The soil used was contaminated soil from the lower Badung River. Results showed that the highest heavy metal concentration negatively affected growth parameters, including number of leaves (21.22), chlorophyll content (29.58), relative water content (0.90%), root length (192.10 px), surface area (323.75 px²), tissue area (126.36 px²), and 1000-seed weight (169.24 g). Among biochar types, rice straw and husk significantly improved root oven dry weight (1.23 g), seed weight at 14% moisture (1.51 g), and plant height (224.11 cm). An interaction was observed between heavy metal levels and biochar types on leaf chlorophyll, cob length, and root fresh weight. Further studies are recommended to explore additional heavy metals and alternative biochar sources for broader remediation applications.