Different levels of biochar and irrigation influence on faba bean growth, yield and yield components

Effect of four levels of biochar (0, 25, 50 and 75 ton ha-1) produced from wheat straw and three levels of irrigation (100, 75 and 50 % of crop water requirement) on growth and yield of faba bean was determined in completely randomized design in the greenhouse. The result showed that after faba bean reached maturity, the maximum plant height and leaf area index obtained in 25 ton ha-1 biochar treatment. Also, maximum faba bean yield was also obtained in 25 ton ha-1 biochar. The result of irrigation regimes treatments showed that the crop height and leaf area index decreased by application of deficit irrigation. Faba bean growth and yield were also significantly declined under deficit irrigation. Therefore, it can be concluded that application of biochar (as a soil amendment) in low levels may have a positive effect on crop yield and its components. Further, under biochar application of 25 ton ha-1, the use of deficit irrigation in 75% of crop water requirement is recommended as it did not cause any significant decline in crop yield.