EVALUATING THE ROLE OF BIOCHAR-AMENDED SOILS IN ENHANCING LEAF CHLOROPHYLL CONTENT AND YIELD OF PADDY CROPS UNDER WATER STRESS

Abstract

This study investigates the role of biochar-amended soils in improving chlorophyll content and yield performance of paddy crops under water stress. A factorial field experiment using varying biochar doses (0, 5, and 10 t/ha) and irrigation regimes (100% and 50% field capacity) revealed significant improvements in plant physiological traits and soil quality. The highest biochar dose (10 t/ha) enhanced leaf chlorophyll content (45.2 SPAD), stomatal conductance (138 mmol/m²/s), and relative water content (87.9%), compared to the control. Yield components, including grain yield (5.3 t/ha), panicle number, and grain weight, also increased substantially. Soil analysis showed improved pH, organic carbon, water-holding capacity, and microbial biomass. Root and shoot lengths, leaf nutrient content, and enzymatic activities were also higher in biochar-treated plots. Even under water-stressed conditions, biochar improved physiological resilience and reduced the yield gap. The results confirm biochar’s effectiveness in enhancing crop performance and soil health under drought, supporting its application in sustainable paddy farming.