What is Biochar – How do you use it?
What Is Biochar?
Biochar is a carbon-rich material made by heating biomass (such as wood or plant waste) in a low-oxygen process called pyrolysis.
It has many different uses but at SoilFixer, it is designed to improve soil health while permanently storing carbon in the ground. Modern biochar production uses clean, efficient systems that reduce emissions and support climate-friendly growing.
When it is added to soil, biochar enhances plant growth, improves soil structure, and locks carbon away permanently.
What Is SoilFixer Biochar Compost?
Biochar compost is a blend of biochar and organic compost.
- Compost provides nutrients and organic matter
- Biochar improves structure, water retention, and microbial life
Together, they create a compost that delivers both fertility and long-term soil stability.
SoilFixer biochar compost is activated, meaning the biochar is already charged with nutrients and beneficial microbes so plants benefit straight away.
Benefits of Biochar
Soil and plant benefits
- Improves water retention and drought resilience
- Reduces nutrient loss and fertiliser waste
- Boosts nutrient availability for plants
- Enhances root development and plant growth
- Supports beneficial microbes and mycorrhizal fungi
- Improves soil structure and aeration
Environmental benefits
- Permanent carbon storage (CO₂ removal)
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions from soil
- Sustainable use of organic materials
How Biochar Works in Soil
Biochar improves soil through three key functions:
- Physical: porous structure holds water and improves soil texture
- Chemical: captures and slowly releases nutrients
- Biological: provides a habitat for beneficial soil microbes
This combination makes biochar one of the most effective long-term soil amendments available.
Biochar vs Biochar Compost
Understanding the difference helps you choose the right product:
Raw biochar
- Long-lasting soil conditioner
- Needs “activation” before full benefits are seen
- Best mixed with compost or fertiliser
Biochar compost
- Pre – charged & ready to use immediately
- Contains nutrients and active microbes
- Delivers faster plant growth and soil improvement
For most growers, biochar compost offers the quickest and easiest results.
How to Use Biochar
Apply biochar where plant roots can benefit most.
Activate for best results
Raw biochar should be “charged” with nutrients before use:
- Add to compost while it matures
- Soak in liquid fertiliser or compost tea
Or use biochar compost to skip this step entirely.
Best application methods
- Mix into soil before planting
- Add to compost or organic matter
- Use as a top dressing and lightly work into soil
How Much Biochar to Apply
Typical application rates:
- Biochar: ~1 kg per m² (around 5% by volume)
- Biochar compost: 10–20% of total soil mix
For best value, target root zones, planting holes, or seed rows.
Biochar remains in soil for centuries, so small, regular applications are ideal.
Is Biochar Suitable for All Soils?
Yes – biochar improves most soil types:
- Sandy soils: improves water and nutrient retention
- Clay soils: improves drainage and structure
- Loam soils: enhances overall fertility
Because biochar is slightly alkaline, use it at a lower application rate with acid-loving plants (e.g. blueberries, azaleas).
What Makes High-Quality Biochar?
Not all biochar is the same. High-quality biochar is:
- Made from clean, sustainable biomass
- Produced using controlled pyrolysis
- Free from contaminants
- Structurally stable for long-term use
Look for certification from organisations such as the European Biochar Certificate and International Biochar Initiative to ensure quality and sustainability. (our certification and chemical analysis is attached)
Biochar as a Carbon Solution
Biochar is one of the most effective carbon removal tools available.
With a carbon content of 86%, our SoilFixer biochar is a fantastic carbon sink, locking away up to 3 kg of CO₂ per kilogram.
Is Biochar a Fertiliser?
Biochar is not a fertiliser in the traditional sense.
It does not supply significant nutrients on its own, but it improves how soil holds and uses nutrients, making fertilisers and compost more effective.
This is why biochar compost is often the best-performing option.
In Summary: Why Use Biochar?
- Improves soil health and plant growth
- Increases water and nutrient efficiency
- Supports beneficial soil biology
- Locks carbon into the soil for generations
Biochar is a simple, natural way to build healthier soil and more resilient plants – while helping reduce carbon in the atmosphere.