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29-18 Effects of Commercial Sawdust Biochar Amendments on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties in Bareroot-Grown Loblolly Pine Seedlings

Session: Undergraduate Research, Part II (Posters)

Poster Booth No.: 69

Presenting Author:

Hayden Platzke

Authors:

Platzke, Hayden¹, Kassan, Chad², MacRae, Andrew ³, Wijesinghe, Dhanuska Bandara⁴, Bergman, Zoe⁵, Moler, Ehren⁶

(1) Geology and Environmental Science, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA, (2) College of Integrated Science and Engineering, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA, (3) College of Integrated Science and Engineering, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA, (4) Department of Geology, and Environmental Science, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, USA, (5) Virginia Department of Forestry, 900 Natural Resources Drive, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA, (6) College of Integrated Science and Engineering, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA,

Abstract:

Production tree seedling nurseries use large volumes of nitrogen (N) fertilizer to sustain the region’s use of wood products. Over-application of N fertilizers can increase nitrate (NO₃^-) leaching, causing economic losses and environmental harm. To address this issue, forest nurseries are exploring ways to grow seedlings with less NO₃^-. The Virginia Department of Forestry (VDF) produces over 25 million seedlings annually for commercial sales, and together we evaluated how soil amendments may enhance fertilizer use efficiency and reduce N leaching. The present study assesses the effect of sawdust biochar amendments on loblolly pine seedling growth, soil physical properties (bulk density, porosity, particle size distribution) and NO₃^- leaching. The study was conducted at two state-owned nurseries (Sussex, sandy soils; and Augusta, VA, silty soils) using a split plot experimental design with fertilizer application rates as a whole-plot factor and biochar application rates as the subplot factor. We assessed how these factors and their interactions affected soil NO₃^- leaching, bulk density, porosity, and particle-size distribution. Each treatment plot was equipped with ion-exchange resin bags at 43.5 cm during the growing season to assess NO₃^- leached from the root zone using the Vanadium (III) reduction method. Soil cores were taken to determine bulk density, porosity, and the amount of NO₃^- remaining in the root zone. Preliminary results show the soil has a silty texture, suggesting low potential NO₃^-leaching. Findings of the present study will help guide fertilizer use in forest nurseries by incorporating soil amendments to reduce costs and minimize environmental impacts.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 1, 2026

Effects of Commercial Sawdust Biochar Amendments on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties in Bareroot-Grown Loblolly Pine Seedlings

Description

Session Format: Poster

Presentation Date: 3/10/2026

Presentation Room: RCC, Lower Level Hall

Poster Booth No.: 69

Author Availability: 2:00-4:00 p.m.

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