What is Pyroligneous Acid?

Pyroligneous Acid—often called Wood Vinegar or Bamboo Vinegar depending on the feedstock—is a natural liquid co-product of the biochar production process. It contains a rich mix of minerals, organic compounds, and beneficial acids. Research shows that wood vinegar can include more than 200 distinct components, and it has been used across Asia for decades to enhance agricultural practices, from improving soil health to supporting plant growth. It also functions as a natural pest repellant, helping to protect crops without synthetic chemicals.

Uses of Pyroligneous Acid

1. Foliar Applications:

  • Spraying diluted pyroligneous acid on plant leaves increases vitality and improves crop quality.
  • Foliar sprays also help control harmful insects and certain plant diseases.

2. Complementary with Agricultural Inputs:

  • Works synergistically with fertilizers and pesticides—the combined effect is greater than using either one alone.

3. Soil Health:

  • High concentrations inhibit eelworms and suppress soil-borne diseases.
  • Low concentrations (or during natural breakdown) boost populations of beneficial microbes.
  • Encourages stronger root development.

4. Composting & Waste Management:

  • When mixed with manure, it reduces odours and accelerates composting.

Application Rates

Recommended by the Appropriate Technology Association of Thailand (ATA, p. 27–28)
Dilute pyroligneous acid with water as indicated. In some cases, specific pest identities were not detailed.

Pest & Disease Control

Repel nematodes:

  • Tomatoes: 1:500, apply to base of plants
  • Strawberries: 1:200, apply to base of plants
  • Black pepper vines: 1:1,500, use in place of water

Repel insect pests:

  • Cabbage & Chinese cabbage: 1:1,500, use in place of water
  • Corn: 1:300, spray onto leaves

Control fungal diseases:

  • Tomato & cucumber: 1:200, spray onto leaves

Control root rot:

  • Tomato & cucumber: 1:200, apply to base of plants

Reduce chili flower abortion:

  • Chili pepper: 1:300, spray onto leaves

Repel house flies:

  • 1:100, apply to affected areas
Soil & Compost

Stimulate compost production:

  • 1:100, increases beneficial microbes and shortens composting time

Enrich garden soil:

  • 1:30, apply 6 L/m² before planting
  • 1:5 to 1:10, for soil-borne pathogen control

Improve flavor & stimulate growth:

  • 1:500 to 1:1,000, prevents excess nitrogen, boosts metabolism, raises fruit sugar levels
Livestock & Odor Management

Supplement livestock feed:

  • 1:200 to 1:300, balances gut bacteria and improves nutrient absorption

Combat animal-pen odors:

  • 1:50, reduces ammonia and foul smells

Learn more about pyroligneous acid

Interested in pyroligneous acid applications and trials?

Contact Us
to top