Document Type
Other
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
The world’s dependence on conventional fertilizers such as urea allows for significantly increased crop yields but has also greatly contributed to the environmental degradation of agricultural lands and surrounding areas. Biochar-based slow-release fertilizers (SRFs) are an ideal alternative to conventional fertilizers, as they enhance nutrient uptake and retention, improve soil properties, and reduce nutrient leaching and volatilization. This study evaluated the effects of biochar-based SRFs, in comparison with traditional non-SRF fertilizers, on the vegetative growth, physiological growth, and yield of Camelina sativa under greenhouse conditions. Conventional urea yielded the best overall crop results, but a coated biochar-based urea SRF achieved comparable results while maintaining lower yellow leaf counts, indicating sustained nitrogen availability. These findings suggest that biochar-based urea SRFs can serve as effective alternatives to conventional fertilizer, providing comparable growth and yield while resulting in long-term soil health benefits.
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Rights
Copyright © 2026 Lily Geffre
Recommended Citation
Geffre, Lily, "Evaluating the Effects of Biochar-Based Slow-Release Nitrogen Fertilizers on Camelina Growth and Development in Greenhouse" (2026). Schultz-Werth Award Papers. 75.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/schultz-werth/75