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Enhancing Peanut Germination and Early Development with Phosphate-Impregnated Biochar Department of Biosustem Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Brawijaya, Jl. Veteran, Malang 65145, Indonesia Abstract This study investigates the effects of biochar treated with various phosphate fertilizers on the germination and early development of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seeds. Three types of phosphate fertilizers were used: SP-36, diammonium phosphate (DAP), and monoammonium phosphate (MAP). These fertilizers were applied at impregnation ratios of 0.5:1, 1:1, and 3:1 (fertilizer:biochar). Key parameters for evaluation included seed viability (germination rate and speed), vigor (growth rate, synchrony, and vigor index), and morphological traits such as plant height, root length, leaf count, and biomass (both root and plant). Results showed that phosphate-impregnated biochar significantly improved seed germination rate by up to 37.5%, increased germination speed by 6.57%, and enhanced growth synchrony by 30% compared to the untreated control. The highest germination rate (36.67%) was observed with SP-36 at a 1:1 ratio, while the fastest germination speed (6.70 seeds/day) was achieved with DAP at a 0.5:1 ratio. Additionally, phosphate-impregnated biochar enhanced root length (279%), plant weight (17%), and root weight (250%) relative to the control, although no significant changes were observed in plant height or leaf number. The optimal phosphate content for maximizing peanut germination was found to be 6.74%, with the most effective results obtained using SP-36 at a 0.5:1 ratio. These findings highlight the potential of phosphate-impregnated biochar as an eco-friendly and efficient strategy to enhance peanut seed germination and early development, thereby contributing to improved crop productivity. Keywords: Biochar- Germination- Seed vigor- Sustainable fertilization- Phosphate biochar Topic: Agricultural and bioprocess engineering |
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