![\"How](\"https:\/\/www.tomgrimshaw.com\/tomsblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/How_To_Make_Biochar.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Biochar can be made using simple materials found on the farm. The goal is to burn plant material with very little oxygen so it turns into charcoal, not ash.<\/p>\n
Materials needed
\nDry plant materials like maize stalks, rice husks, groundnut shells, dry grass, or small wood pieces
\nA pit in the ground or a metal drum
\nMatches or fire source
\nWater or soil for covering<\/p>\n
Step 1: Prepare the materials
\nCollect dry biomass. Cut large pieces into smaller sizes so they burn evenly. Make sure the material is dry for good results.<\/p>\n
Step 2: Dig a pit or use a drum
\nPit method: Dig a shallow pit about 1 meter wide and 0.5 meter deep
\nDrum method: Use a metal drum with small holes at the bottom for limited air flow<\/p>\n
Step 3: Start the fire
\nLight a small fire at the bottom using dry leaves or grass. Let it burn until you have a steady flame.<\/p>\n
Step 4: Add biomass slowly
\nAdd the plant material little by little. Do not dump everything at once. This helps control oxygen and prevents full burning into ash.<\/p>\n
Step 5: Control oxygen
\nThis is the most important step. When the material starts turning black (char), reduce air by:
\nCovering partly with soil, or
\nClosing the drum
\nThe aim is to allow heating without too much air. This is what makes biochar instead of ash.<\/p>\n
Step 6: Stop the burning
\nWhen most of the material has turned black, stop the fire by covering with soil or sprinkling a small amount of water. Do not let it turn into white ash.<\/p>\n
Step 7: Cool down
\nLeave the biochar to cool completely. Do not expose hot char to air, as it may continue burning.<\/p>\n
Step 8: Crush the biochar
\nBreak the biochar into small pieces or powder. This makes it easier to mix with soil.<\/p>\n
Step 9: Mix before use
\nBefore applying, mix biochar with manure, compost, or animal waste. Let it stay for a few days. This helps it absorb nutrients and become more effective.<\/p>\n
Application in the field
\nApply about 2 to 5 tons per hectare for normal soils
\nUp to 10 tons per hectare for poor soils
\nMix well into the topsoil before planting<\/p>\n
Important tips
\nDo not use wet materials
\nDo not allow full burning into ash
\nAlways mix with organic matter before use<\/p>\n
In summary, making biochar is simple and low cost. With proper control of fire and oxygen, farmers can produce a useful soil amendment that improves crop growth.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Biochar can be made using simple materials found on the farm. The goal is to burn plant material with very little oxygen so it turns into charcoal, not ash. Materials needed Dry plant materials like maize stalks, rice husks, groundnut shells, dry grass, or small wood pieces A pit in the ground or a metal … <\/p>\n