Seasonal Paspalum vaginatum Physiological Characteristics Change with Agricultural Byproduct Biochar in Sandy Potting Soil

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Understanding the changes in physiological parameters of Paspalum vaginatum is important for scientists and golf managers to maintain adequate irrigation and nutrient levels for this plant under harsh conditions. The south of Morocco is an area of the country well known for its luxury golf courses, even though the region has a dry climate due to low rainfall. Irrigation of its golf courses is a major issue in that region, particularly during the summer. Our goal was to see if the three biochars derived from agricultural wastes could improve the ecophysiological responses of P. vaginatum under adequate water supply and moderate drought stress. The effect of peanut hull biochar on improving the physiological and stomatal traits of seashore paspalum under two water shortages was clearer in the summer season compared to the winter and spring seasons in this study. By releasing carbon and organic matter, the addition of 6% peanut hull biochar to soil improved grass tolerance to soil-moisture stress physiology in the summer season. In fact, due to its ability to retain water, the application of peanut hull biochar to soil could potentially save 47.5% on turfgrass in hot, dry climates. ABSTRACT: A plastic pot open-air trial was conducted with the Paspalum vaginatum (seashore paspalum) using different rates of biochar or compost addition to sandy loam soil and two water treatments (60% and 20% of the water-holding capacity of the control) during three seasons (winter, spring, and summer). Paspalum growth, physiological characteristics, and physicochemical properties of soil were investigated. The effect of biochar on soil properties was assessed using factor analysis of mixed data (FAMD). Additionally, multiple factorial designs (MFA) were used to examine the impact of three biochars on physiological functions. Peanut hull biochar application increased soil fertility and chlorophyll concentration of paspalum leaves significantly compared to the other biochars. Physiological characteristics were significantly improved with peanut hull biochar under summer compared to winter and spring due to the accumulation of nutrients in the soil by the decomposition of biochar. The application rate of the three biochars reduced the water requirements of paspalum. The best result was obtained by incorporating 6% peanut hull biochar into the soil, which resulted in better soil quality and healthy grass in dryland conditions while using 47.5% less water. These findings can be suitable for golf managers and can serve as a solution for dry zones.