| Summary: | Background: The faulty development of the root system is a major threat that affects the survival rate of container seedlings of <i>Sapium sebiferum</i> in the transplanting and reforestation processes. The current study was conducted to determine the impact of biochar on the root growth and development of <i>S. sebiferum</i> container seedlings. Methods: Varied concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) of straw and bamboo biochar were applied in six groups, whereas the control group (CK) was only treated with matrix. Results: The treatment with 3% straw biochar (C2) proved to be the most effective soil conditioner for cultivating <i>S. sebiferum</i> seedlings. Moreover, C2 increased seedling height (58.92%); ground diameter (33.86%, biomass of the over-ground part (12.73 g), the underground part (7.48 g), and the fibrous part (0.076 g) compared to the CK (control). Conclusions: Biochar not only improved the root morphology by developing primary lateral roots, but it also accelerated the assimilation of N from the matrix to indirectly facilitate stem growth through enhancing NR activity. The change in root growth strategy contributed to the growth in <i>S. sebiferum</i> seedlings, thereby improving the survival rate during transplanting and reforestation.
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