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ASPHC Baner

Vol. 25 No. 5 (2026):

Research paper

Effects of different biochar types on the growth and biochemical characteristics of broccoli and pepper seedlings under greenhouse conditions

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/asphc.2026.5716
Submitted: 27 May 2026
Published: 30.10.2026

Abstract

This study aimed to verify the effects of biochars produced from chestnut seeds, compost, pine bark, and pine sawdust on the growth and quality of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenck) and pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seedlings under greenhouse conditions. It was hypothesized that the effects would depend on the biochar feedstock and the plant genotype. Biochars were incorporated into a universal peat substrate at 4.4% (dry weight); an unamended substrate served as the control. Pots experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design, with 10 replicates per treatment. Biochar application generally did not significantly modify the biometric and biochemical parameters of broccoli seedlings. Pine sawdust biochar increased leaf perimeter compared to the control; however, it lowered chlorophyll fluorescence, suggesting a stress response. Compost biochar increased the number of root tips compared to chestnut seed biochar, but roots had the lowest diameter. At the same time, compost biochar-treated broccoli had lower anthocyanin, chlorophyll, and SPAD index contents, contrary to pine bark-treated seedlings. In peppers, pine sawdust biochar provided the best results across plant biometric parameters, compared to pine bark and compost biochar. Plants grown in substrate with chestnut seed biochar had the longest roots and the highest root area, volume, diameter, and number of root tips. Leaf chlorophyll content and the SPAD index were also higher compared to the control. Compost biochar did not positively affect seedling development. Our results suggesting pine sawdust and chestnut seed biochars as promising amendments for peat substrates used in pepper seedling production and highlighting the need to select the appropriate biochar type for each plant species to obtain high-quality planting material.

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