<![CDATA[Oil palm frond-based biochar is an alternative approach for utilizing biomass waste that has potential as a soil amendment and can support nutrient availability for plants. This study aimed to analyze the effect of oil palm frond-based biochar application on soil chemical properties, nutrient availability, and the growth of chili plants. The study employed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four biochar dosage treatments, namely 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3% of soil weight, with three replications. Oil palm fronds were first converted into biochar through pyrolysis and subsequently applied to the growing media of chili plants. Soil chemical properties analyzed included pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, while plant growth was observed for three weeks. The results showed that biochar application increased soil pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, and phosphorus compared with the control treatment. Soil pH increased from 6.183 in the control treatment to 7.813 at the 3% biochar dosage, while organic carbon increased from 2.587% to 5.457%. The highest total nitrogen content was obtained at the 3% dosage, reaching 0.257%, while the highest phosphorus content was 1.210%. The highest potassium content was obtained at the 2% dosage, reaching 1.077%. Based on visual observations of plant growth, chili plants treated with 2% biochar showed the best growth performance. Therefore, oil palm frond-based biochar has potential as a soil amendment, with a 2% dosage considered the most optimal treatment for supporting nutrient balance and chili plant growth while increasing the utilization value of oil palm biomass waste and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. ]]>
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