Abstract

This study aims to investigate the potential use of maize stalk (MS), bamboo (BB) and cow manure (CM) derived biochar as a soil amendment on the cadmium (Cd) and trace metals (Mn, Zn, Fe) accumulation by two Cd accumulator cultivars; low (Aijiaoheiye 333) (AJ) and high (Zhouyeheiyoudonger) (ZH) of Brassica chinensis L. The effect of different biochar (4% w/w) on both cultivars grown on artificially Cd contaminated Alfisol soil was studied. All selected biochar decreased the bioavailability of Cd in soil and its phytoavailability for both cultivars of B. chinensis L. followed the order: MS > CM > BB. In particular, with increase soil pH MS biochar significantly reduced Cd bioavailability in soil by 54% and accumulation in shoots of AJ and ZH cultivars by 35% and 41%, as soil amendment. These results indicated the effectiveness of biochar by reducing the availability and phytotoxicity of Cd, while enhanced shoot dry biomass by promoting microbial activity and availability of essential trace metals.

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