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Abstract
Vegetable production in southern Georgia faces significant challenges, including soilborne diseases and declining soil fertility, exacerbated by the region’s Costal Plain soils. These soils are characterized by poor water retention, acidity, low organic matter content, and high nutrient leaching, which collectively limit crop yields and soil health. Additionally, the reliance on chemical inputs poses environmental risks, further underscoring the need for sustainable alternatives. Soil amendments, such as biochar and organic fertilizers, offer promising solutions by improving soil structure, enhancing nutrient retention, boosting microbial activity, and suppressing diseases. This study investigates the effects of five biochar application rates (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 tons/acre) combined with inorganic (convetional) and organic (poultry litter) fertilizers on soil properties, nitrogen availability, plant growth, disease suppression, and crop yields in tomato and sweet corn production systems. We hypothesize that moderate to high biochar application rates (15–20 tons/acre) will enhance soil health, improve nutrient retention, and increase crop yields, with poultry litter further amplifying these benefits. By evaluating these practices, this research aims to provide actionable insights for sustainable agriculture in southern Georgia, aligning with global sustainability goals and addressing critical knowledge gaps in soil management.