A biochar and perlite substrate from soilless tomato greenhouse waste to replace imported coconut coir

Aim: To turn the plant waste of soilless tomato greenhouses into biochar and, blended with perlite, into a domestic growing medium that can take the place of imported coconut coir.

Methods: Biochar made from greenhouse waste is blended with perlite at different ratios and the physical and chemical properties of the blends are determined. The blends are compared with coconut coir in soilless pepper and tomato trials, measuring plant growth, yield and nutrient contents.

Scope: Supported by the YÖK Research Support Programme (ADEP) and run with Mavruz Tarım, Kale Maden and NG Biyoteknoloji.