Combined Effects of Biochar and Seaweed Extract on Soil Nutrient Dynamics and Physiological Responses of Arugula under Saline Irrigation

Year 2025, Volume: 9 Issue: 4, 1169 - 1180, 26.12.2025

Özlem Çakmakcı , Talip Çakmakcı

https://doi.org/10.31015/2025.4.19

Abstract

Soil salinity severely limits crop productivity by disrupting plant physiology and nutrient balance. This study examined the effects of biochar and seaweed extract on soil properties, nutrient uptake, and physiological responses of arugula (Eruca sativa Mill.) under saline irrigation. A factorial experiment was conducted with two salinity levels (S0: tap water, 0.6 dS m⁻¹; S1: 3.1 dS m⁻¹ saline water), two biochar rates (B0: %0 biochar, B1: 2% biochar application), and two seaweed extract doses (SW0: no seaweed, SW1: 0.65 ml L⁻¹). Salinity significantly reduced chlorophyll (SPAD) and leaf relative water content (LRWC) while increasing electrolyte leakage (EL). Seaweed extract increased SPAD by 17%, LRWC by 7%, and reduced EL by 18%. Although the short-term physiological effects of biochar were limited, it improved nutrient balance, particularly for Ca, Mg, and Cu. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between soil and plant nutrient content and negative correlations between soil Na and plant Zn. The combined use of biochar and seaweed extract improved soil-plant interactions and reduced salt-induced stress. These findings indicate that integrating biochar and seaweed extract is an effective and sustainable strategy for enhancing the resilience and productivity of arugula under saline conditions.

Keywords

Biostimulant , Eruca sativa Mill , Nutrient uptake , Soil fertility , Sustainable agriculture

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