Effect of Biochar and Nickel Levels on Concentration of Nickel and Some Micronutrients in Corn

Biochar is an absorbent material that can reduce the availability of heavy metals. A greenhouse experiment was carried out in factorial arrangement using completely randomized design to examine the influence of biochar, nickel (Ni) and their interaction on the growth and concentration of Ni and some micronutrients in corn grown on a calcareous soil. Treatments consisted of three biochar levels (0, 2, and 4 % w/w) and three Ni levels (0, 50 and 100 mg/kg soil as nickel sulfate) in three replicates. The results indicated that biochar significantly increased corn dry weight, chlorophyll index, and LAI. However, nickel application had no significant effect on the dry weight of corn. Biochar application significantly decreased Ni concentration in corn aerial part by 33%. Increasing Ni levels increased concentration of this element in corn shoot. Zinc, Mn, and Fe concentration significantly decreased with biochar application. Ni application decreased Fe and Mn concentration in corn. Considering the positive role of biochar on dry weight, chlorophyll greenness, and LAI, and decreasing Ni concentration in corn aerial part, it can be suggested that biochar application might be useful in soils contaminated with Ni.