Biochar Application Boosts Maize Yields in Ghana by Up to 218.2%

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted by CSIR - Savanna Agricultural Research Institute in Ghana has revealed that the application of biochar can significantly enhance soil fertility and boost maize yields. The study, which was conducted over the 2022 and 2023 cropping seasons, evaluated the effects of three different biochar feedstocks and five application rates on soil characteristics and maize productivity. The results showed that groundnut husk biochar was the most effective in improving soil fertility and increasing maize yields, with the highest application rate leading to remarkable grain yield increases.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that groundnut husk biochar was the most effective biochar feedstock in enhancing soil fertility and boosting maize yields.
  • Maize yield showed a strong positive correlation with soil fertility parameters, except for the harvest index.
  • The highest application rate of groundnut husk biochar (8 t ha-) led to grain yield increases of up to 218.2% in 2022 and 106.3% in 2023.
  • Soil organic matter content increased significantly, ranging from 89.6 to 343.4%, with nitrogen availability peaking at 220% in 2022 and 70% in 2023.
  • The study demonstrated the potential of biochar to enhance soil health and long-term agricultural productivity.
  • The results provide critical insights into optimizing biochar use for sustainable maize production in similar conditions worldwide.

Statistics:

  • The highest application rate of groundnut husk biochar (8 t ha-) led to a 218.2% increase in maize yield in 2022 and a 106.3% increase in 2023.
  • Soil organic matter content increased by up to 343.4%, with a significant range of 89.6 to 343.4%.
  • Nitrogen availability peaked at 220% in 2022 and 70% in 2023.
  • The study was conducted over two cropping seasons, with data collected from 2022 and 2023.

Sources:

  • CSIR - Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (2025)
  • Biochar effects on soil properties and yield of maize in Northern region, Ghana. Discover Agriculture, 2025, 3(1):1-26. Springer.
  • doi: 10.1007/s44279-025-00271-y
  • NewsRx LLC, Research Results from CSIR - Savanna Agricultural Research Institute Update Understanding of Agriculture (Biochar effects on soil properties and yield of maize in Northern region, Ghana). Agriculture Week, September 4, 2025; p 308.