Sustainable Soil Restoration with Biochar

Organifer Biochar is a high-quality, organic soil improver made from 100% pyrolyzed cocoa shells. This by-product of the cocoa industry is sustainably repurposed, contributing to circular agriculture and waste reduction. The open, porous structure of the biochar provides an immense surface area for water and nutrient retention, resulting in improved soil conditions and enhanced plant growth. Thanks to its exceptional porosity, plants can retain water more effectively, and soil structure is stabilized—especially during dry periods.

For Healthy Soil Structure and Enhanced Plant Growth

Organifer Biochar increases soil fertility by storing minerals and nutrients. It improves water retention, which is essential for water-demanding crops, and strengthens soil resilience against drought. Biochar also contributes to soil pH buffering, creating a more stable and healthier soil environment. Rich in minerals, biochar supports the development of strong roots and enhances nutrient uptake. This leads to faster growth and higher crop yields.

100% Natural Origin

Organifer Biochar is produced from 100% cocoa shells—a natural by-product of the cocoa industry. The pyrolysis of these shells results in a biochar with an open, porous structure, ideal for soil improvement. No artificial fertilizers, pesticides, or synthetic additives are used, making the product completely natural and safe for use in both private gardens and large-scale agricultural fields.

Composition

Organifer Biochar is a natural soil conditioner with a high carbon content of 65%. It enhances soil structure, increases water and nutrient retention, and stimulates microbial activity—making it particularly effective for sustainable soil restoration.

Key components and percentages:

• 65% Carbon (C) – Improves water and nutrient retention, provides long-term carbon storage

• 2.5% Total nitrogen (N) – Promotes healthy foliage and root development

• 2.2% Total phosphate (P₂O₅) – Stimulates root growth and overall plant development

• 9.0% Potassium oxide (K₂O) – Strengthens cell structure, increases drought and frost resistance

• 2.0% Magnesium oxide (MgO) – Essential for chlorophyll formation and energy production

Other characteristics:

• pH (in CaCl₂): 10.6 – Stabilizes soil pH

• Dry matter content: 75%

• PAH16: 1.5 mg/kg (below EBC limit of 4 mg/kg)

• PAH8: Not detectable (below threshold: 1 mg/kg)

• Electrical conductivity: 170 mS/m – Indicator of ion exchange capacity

Organifer Biochar is EU-organic certified and completely free from artificial fertilizers, pesticides, and synthetic substances. Suitable for use in soil improvement, composting, bedding material, and biogas installations.

Properties

✔ Long-term carbon storage in the soil (hundreds to thousands of years)
✔ Increases soil fertility by storing minerals and nutrients
✔ Reduces nitrogen losses, nitrous oxide emissions, and soil contamination
✔ Stabilizes soil pH and prevents fluctuations
✔ Stimulates humus formation and promotes microbial biodiversity
✔ Faster-acting than wood-based biochar due to higher reactivity
✔ Improves water retention, especially during dry periods
✔ Strengthens soil structure and enhances air and water circulation
✔ Increases the availability and uptake of nutrients by plants
✔ Reduces soil erosion by reinforcing soil structure

Application and Instructions for Use – Biochar

Organifer Biochar is best applied directly into the root zone before or during planting. Work the biochar into the top 10–20 cm of soil or substrate for optimal effects on water retention, soil structure, and nutrient use. Cover with soil or compost to prevent dust formation and to stimulate microbial activity.

For best results, it is recommended to “pre-load” the biochar with organic material or nutrients (such as compost, manure, plant feed, or aquarium water). This prevents temporary nutrient absorption from the soil (“sponge effect”) and accelerates the positive impact on plant growth.

Application can be done manually or mechanically. For large areas, a pendulum or disc spreader with a coarse setting is suitable. Manual application is most precise for targeted dosing, such as for planting or pots.

Dosage for Vegetables/Plants/Trees

• Garden and greenhouse soil: 0.5–1 kg/m²

• Pots, containers, and tree wells: 5–10% of the volume

• Composting: 10–20 kg per m³ of compost

• Animal bedding (stalls): approx. 2% of the bedding volume

• Biogas installations: 0.4–0.8% of the substrate weight

Application Period

Organifer Biochar can be applied year-round, with seasonal variations in effect:

• November – February (winter):
  Ideal for soil preparation and activating soil life. Also suitable for use in compost or animal bedding.
• March – April (spring):
  Stimulates root growth and improves soil structure at the start of the growing season.
• June – July (summer):
  Enhances water retention and supports flowering and fruit development.
• September – October (autumn):
  Builds humus and strengthens soil structure in preparation for dormancy or replanting.

Storage

Organifer Biochar should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight. After opening, reseal the packaging carefully to prevent moisture absorption and dust formation. When stored properly, the product remains effective and structurally stable for several years. Avoid excessive movement or shaking of the packaging to limit dust. Keep out of reach of children and animals.