Diggin Biochar improves soil by changing its physical structure, chemical behavior, and biological activity. Here are 10 ways in which pyrolised (properly made) biochar works.
Increases Water Retention
Those tiny pores act like sponges.
- Holds water during rain or irrigation
- Releases water slowly to plant roots
- Especially helpful in dry or sandy soils
Plants are less stressed during dry periods.
Improves Soil Structure
Biochar is very porous (full of tiny holes).
- Loosens compacted soils
- Improves aeration (more oxygen for roots)
- Helps sandy soils hold together better
- Reduces erosion
This makes it easier for roots to grow and spread.
Holds and Releases Nutrients
Biochar has a high surface area and is cationic, so it:
- Holds nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, calcium, and magnesium
- Prevents nutrients from washing away (leaching)
- Slowly releases nutrients back to plants
This improves fertilizer efficiency.
Supports Biodiversity
The pores provide shelter for microorganisms so it:
- Protects microbes from drying out
- Encourages beneficial bacteria and fungi
- Improves nutrient cycling in the soil
Healthier microbes = healthier plants.
Helps Balance Soil pH
- Raises pH in acidic soils
- Makes nutrients more available to plants
- Reduces toxic aluminum in very acidic soils
(Not all biochar is the same—the pH depends on how it’s made.)
Locks Carbon in Soil
Biochar made through pyrolysis is very stable and so it:
- Stores carbon for hundreds to thousands of years
- Reduces CO₂ in the atmosphere
- Helps fight climate change
This makes biochar unique compared to compost alone
Neutralises harmful toxins
Diggin Biochar cleans up your earth, by:
- Trapping heavy metals such as arsenic and cadmium
- Reducing pesticide availability
- Limiting toxin uptake by plants
Quick tip for best results
Biochar performs best when it’s ‘charged’ before use. This can either be done by mixing with your own compost or if it’s precharged with organic nutrients. This is why at Diggin we offer PURE biochar or biochar FERTILISER. If you buy it pure then mix it with mature compost, worm castings, compost tea or a liquid feed, then apply as a soil conditioner, in potting mixes, or as a light top dressing.
Where to use DIGGIN biochar
- Beds and borders – especially light, sandy or very free-draining soils
- Veg patches and raised beds – for steadier moisture and nutrient retention
- Pots, planters and hanging baskets – to reduce dry-outs and support roots
- Lawns and new turf – as part of a soil-improving topdressing mix
- Compost and wormeries – as a habitat for microbes and to help manage odours