TerraVida Biochar

TerraVida Organic Biochar

TerraVida biochar consists of pyrolyzed cocoa shells - a byproduct which is otherwise hardly used. Compared to wood-based biochars, these chars based on non-woody biomass are characterised by lower carbon content and higher ash content (=mineral content). Such chars have a more open, coarser pore system, which is easier for soil organisms and plant roots to access. These chars are significantly more active and become productive more quickly in the soil.

• Increases soil microbial content and activity
• Improves soil structure
• Increases plants' ability to fight environmental stresses
• Can be used in to buffer excess nutrients such as those which can build up in intensive protected cropping situations
• 12.5kg has the bulk of 40 litres

Charging Biochar

For use as a soil improver, it is important that the biochar is previously charged with nutrients and, ideally, with a film of organic matter. If this does not happen, the biochar initially acts like a sponge in the soil, absorbing water and nutrients from the environment (this may be desirable if you are trying to buffer excess nutrients). Although these are later released again, the absorption can lead to a short-term deficiency in the soil system, which can lead to growth depression.

• One of the easiest ways to charge, or 'activate', biochar is to mix it into your compost pile. This will charge the pores of the biochar with nutrients
• It is also great to add it to animal bedding where it will store moisture and bind ammonia and other nutrients from the manure -  reducing the odour and nitrogen and improving the environment for the animals
• If short on time you can work the biochar into the soil and inoculate by applying liquid feeds or compost tea

Application rate:

• 0.5-1 kg/m²

Nutrient content:

• 2.5% nitrogen (N)
• 2.2% phosphate (P₂O5)
• 9.0% water-soluble potassium oxide (K₂O)
• 2.0% total magnesium oxide (MgO)