Potential of Biochar-Based Organic Fertilizers on Increasing Soil Fertility, Available Nutrients, and Okra Productivity in Slightly Acidic Sandy Loam Soil

Reducing chemical fertilizers is critical for maintaining soil health and minimizing environmental damage. Biochar-based organic reduce fertilizer inputs, improve fertility, increase crop productivity, risks. In this study, a pot experiment was conducted in greenhouse to assess the potential of biochar-based inorganic fertility Okra yield. Seven treatments with three replicates were arranged completely randomized design (CRD). Three included biochar-blended formulations (i) biochar mixed mineral NPK (BF), (ii) vermicompost (BV), (iii) goat manure (BM); two enrichment (iv) enriched cow urine (BCU) (v) aqueous solution (BFW), remaining control treatments; (vi) (CK: no fertilizers) (vii) fertilized (F: only recommended biochar). Mineral BF, BFW, F applied at rate as urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), muriate potash (MOP). Organic BV, BM, BCU equal quantities. All biochar-amended showed improved properties higher pH, carbon, total N, available P K compared non-biochar plots (CK F). Biochar blended (BM) highest effect on fruit BM (51.8 t ha−1) increased yield by 89% over CK (27.4 88% (27 ha−1). Similarly, urine-enriched (35 29% 28% F, respectively. Soil OC, nutrient availability (total P, K) significantly positive relationship The study suggests that using fertilizers, such could outperform (F) produce yields healthy soils, thereby contributing mitigating current food security concerns country.