NUTRIENT UPTAKE BY OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) AS INFLUENCED BY BIOCHAR AND SILICON APPLICATION IN A SALINE SOIL

This research presents a novel and sustainable method for enhancing crop production in the saline soils of Bangladesh's coastal areas. Unlike traditional methods, silicon and Biochar have significantly improved plant growth, nutrient absorption, and soil fertility. The combination treatment Biochar (5 t/ha)+Silicon(400 kg/ha) addressed by (T7) has proven to be remarkably effective, resulting in more vigorous plants, improved nutrient uptake, and increased yields while also enhancing the soil's organic matter and nutrient retention capacity. The sustainability of this technique lies in its ability to address both short-term and long-term challenges. Biochar, produced from agricultural byproducts, not only enhances soil structure and moisture retention but also sequesters carbon in the soil, thus mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and fostering climate resilience. Silicon enhances plant tolerance to salinity and environmental stress, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices in challenging conditions. These amendments rejuvenate soil fertility, enabling farmers to maintain productive use of the same land over multiple seasons without significant dependence on chemical fertilizers.

• Supervision