What is Biochar?

Biochar is a stable, carbon-rich soil amendment created from the thermal decomposition of biomass heated in a low-oxygen environment. This stabilized form of carbon can be returned to the earth, where it continues to store carbon while improving soil productivity. Biochar can be used in a range of situations, from potting soil to turfgrass applications. By using biochar in their fields, farmers can increase agricultural production without increasing cropland.

You can use biochar in your garden, potting soil and compost production as well.

What makes your biochar different?

Not all biochar is created equally. GreenTree BioCore^TM is made from wood left over from the logging industry. Left to decompose naturally, this biomass would release CO2 back into the atmosphere. By creating biochar, we lock the carbon into a form we can return to the soil. Beyond the benefit of capturing carbon, the process of making biochar – called pyrolysis –can be used to create energy products like heat and electricity.

GreenTree Biochar^TM products use biochar to create healthy biology and nutrient-rich soils. GreenCharge^TM uses a patented process* to Biocharge^TM biochar. Our biochar has been produced under carefully specified and controlled conditions, and it aids water retention and provides an ideal environment for microbial activity. BioCharge^TM delivers nutrients, trace elements and microbes that will enhance plant growth. We have formulated GreenCharge^TM products specifically for use as a conditioner to mix with your soil that will deliver nutrients in container-grown situations that allow for water-only schedules.

How do I use biochar at home?

We offer a number of biochar products at our store in Ithaca, N.Y., for use in your home garden.

GreenTree BioCore^TM

Pure biochar, intended to be used as a soil amendment in your garden, as an ingredient for potting soil, green roofs, soil remediation and low-impact rainwater devices.

GreenTree WormCharge^TM

A premium soil amendment produced by worms and designed to enhance your garden or potting soil. Made with local Fingerlakes Organics Worm Castings.

Where can I purchase your biochar products?

Our biochar products are available at our retail store at 606 Elmira Road, Ithaca, N.Y., as well as in bags at other garden centers around Ithaca and New England.

We also produce a full line of coco-based soils which you can read about here.

To download a PDF of our product catalog, click here.

* US Patent 8,361,186 under exclusive license from Full Circle Biochar, Inc.