Biochar-Treated Crops Show Stronger Performance During Heavy Rains

WasteX's team, Virga (far right), with local farmers and agricultural extension officers

BOJONEGORO, INDONESIA — Biochar-treated crops in Bojonegoro showed stronger performance during the recent intense rainy season, based on field visits conducted by WasteX from January 13 to 15, 2026.

The company visited several demonstration plots to review how crops grown with biochar-amended soil were responding to prolonged wet weather that has affected farming areas.

Shallot Plots Show Clear Advantages in Gayam Village

One of the first locations was Gayam Village, where WasteX worked with the local Agricultural Extension Center (BPP Gayam) to inspect shallot plots managed by farmers Wito and Rohmad.

Despite heavy rainfall and earlier seed quality challenges, the biochar-treated plots showed visible advantages over untreated areas. Plants appeared more vigorous, with thicker stems and higher survival rates under the same weather conditions.

These results suggest stronger crop resilience during periods of excessive rain.

Farmers Report Better Soil Conditions in Baureno Village

The trip continued to Baureno Village, where horticulture farmers shared their experiences using biochar.

Farmers reported that soil treated with biochar had become more porous, helping excess rainwater drain more effectively while still retaining moisture and nutrients. This condition helped their crops withstand the wet season, where the biochar-treated plot showed healthier and larger plants compared to the control plot. 

Biochar Seen as Tool for Weather Resilience 

The field findings suggest that biochar may help farmers manage increasingly unpredictable weather patterns by improving soil structure. Better drainage can reduce waterlogging risk, while stronger nutrient retention may support crops through stressful conditions.

For farming areas facing heavier rainfall, these qualities can play an important role in maintaining crop health and productivity.

WasteX will continue working with local farmers and agricultural partners to evaluate biochar performance across crops, soil types, and seasonal conditions. 

The company uses demonstration plots and field visits to turn trial results into practical solutions for farming communities.