• Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Wakefield BioChar

  • What Is Biochar?
  • Products
        • Products

          Wakefield Original
          Premium Biochar
          Learn more
          Premium Biochar
          with CarbonBoost™
          CarbonBoost™
          Learn more
          Biochar Blend for
          Gardens & Raised Beds
          CarbonBoost™
          Learn more
          Biochar Blend for
          Tomato & Vegetable
          CarbonBoost™
          Learn more
          Biochar Blend for
          Indoor Plants
          CarbonBoost™
          Learn more
          Biochar Blend for
          Cactus & Succulents
          CarbonBoost™
          Learn more
  • Learning Center
        • Learning Center

          Discover the power of biochar! Dive into expert insights, how-to guides, and sustainable solutions for gardens, farms, and beyond. Explore articles tailored to gardeners of all levels and see how biochar can transform your soil — and the planet.

          Browse by Categories

          Biochar Basics
          What Is Biochar?
          What Is the Difference Between Biochar and Compost? 
          Gardening Tips
          How to Activate Biochar
          How to Improve Garden Soil with Amendments
          Biochar Applications
          How to Use Biochar for Lawn Care 
          How to use Biochar for Turf Management
          Biochar Benefits
          Can Biochar Be Reused?
          Soil Nutrient Depletion
          Sustainability
          Understanding Biochar Carbon Credits
          Carbon Sequestration with Biochar
          Beneficial Reuse
          What are the benefits of beneficial reuse?
          Turning Paper Mill Waste into Useful Biochar
          Frequently Asked Questions
          Can I Use Regular Charcoal as Biochar? 
          What Does It Mean to Be Carbon Negative?
          The Science of Biochar
          Back-to-School DIY: Egg Carton Seedlings with a Sustainable Twist
          Compost + Biochar

          Browse by Channels

          New Gardeners
          Experienced Gardeners
          Master Gardeners & Pros
          Academic Researchers
  • Our Story
  • Where to Buy
  • Contact Us Where to Buy
Learning Center
This article is part of our Frequently Asked Questions series, created for Experienced Gardener.
You might also like:
Can I Use Regular Charcoal as Biochar? 
What Does It Mean to Be Carbon Negative?
What Is Terra Preta?
Explore the Wakefield Learning Center.
Subscribe to our newsletter.

Get the Wakefield Newsletter for biochar discounts, tips & info.

Name

Follow us on social media:

Get your perfect soil today.

Is Biochar a Fertilizer?

Created for and Experienced Gardener.
Frequently Asked Questions

Biochar is not a fertilizer, but rather a soil amendment. It has an impressive impact on the health of plants and grass thanks to its many remarkable qualities. It can also reduce the level of carbon dioxide within the atmosphere by keeping it confined within the soil.

Our team at Wakefield BioChar recognizes the many positive effects our soil amending products can have on landscapes. We also know that reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere is key to a bright, healthy future for the environment.

With our products, you can enjoy the gorgeous landscape of your dreams while also feeling good about your impact on this earth we call home.

Biochar vs. Fertilizer

It’s a question we encounter on a regular basis: is biochar actually a fertilizer? We understand that not everyone gets as excited about biochar science as we do, so we’re always happy to provide some insight into how it works and what makes it distinctive.

As a soil amendment, biochar has a direct impact on the quality of the soil that nourishes plants and grass. It does so by enhancing the texture of the soil, which then allows root systems to develop in a robust manner. For example, a crumbly soil texture creates pockets in the ground where air and water can flow freely. These pockets encourage roots to extend deep into the soil for improved strength and vitality.

On the other hand, fertilizers introduce nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen into the soil to facilitate healthy plant growth. Fertilizers have no effect on texture like soil amendments do. While these nutrients are essential for healthy growth, they won’t have as much of an impact if soil texture is not amenable. Biochar will help increase microbial activity in the soil to improve the rate the nutrients are fed to plant roots.

How Biochar Improves Soil Texture

Now that you understand the difference between soil amendments and fertilizers, the next step is to understand just how biochar enhances soil texture. Biochar has a very special structure that draws water into the soil. And once moisture is drawn in, the structure of biochar helps keep water in place.

Biochar also binds with the nutrients in the soil that are so crucial for optimal plant growth. The combination of water retention and nutrient binding means that plant roots can thrive underground, as they’ll have easy access to precisely what they need. These unique properties also prevent nutrient run-off, which can lead to serious health issues should fertilizers make their way into the surrounding environment.

Why Wakefield BioChar Is the Leader in Soil Amendments

Here at Wakefield, everything we do is backed by science and research. Our products are developed by some of the best minds in the industry, which is why we have a reputation for amazing results when it comes to landscape and garden quality. We also take the time to explain the many benefits of biochar to our customers in plain English, so you’re fully aware of all it can do for your lawn and plants.

If you’d like more information on how to use biochar effectively, feel free to contact our knowledgeable team today. We’re always happy to provide tips and guidance to ensure the best possible results.

Footer

1826 Clay Road
Valdosta, GA 31601
(229) 278-2488
Connect with us:
Get your perfect
soil today:

© 2025 Wakefield BioChar
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Wakefield Privacy Policy | Terms of Service