Biochar enhances nitrogen use efficiency in lettuce by promoting its metabolic assimilation.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Peat replacement with biochar (BC) offers a sustainable strategy in horticultural substrates but its effects on plant nitrogen (N) metabolism and N use efficiency (NUE) remain unclear. This study tested whether vineyard-pruning-derived BC can boost NUE and metabolic activity in lettuce, providing a pathway toward more productive and sustainable horticulture.

Methods

Plant substrates (BC, peat and vermiculite) were prepared in the following proportions (v:v:v): B0 (0:70:30), B15 (15:55:30) and B30 (30:40:30) for growing lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. Batavia) under greenhouse conditions for 31 days. We assessed plant growth and physiological traits, quantified N species and calculated NUE parameters and the activities of key N assimilation enzymes.

Res

SUBMITTER: Garcia-Rodriguez AF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12830439 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature