Data used for manuscript “Incorporation of rice husk biochars into the soil for fall armyworm control in maize: potential and processes”

Report of pot experiments conducted in greenhouses in randomized complete block designs with 6 replications and respectively 5 and 6 treatments (including plain soil control), at two locations (Antananarivo, Madagascar & St-Pierre, Réunion)/years (2023 & 2025) with two maize crop cycles at each location/year, with artificial infestation (AI) of maize leaf disks in the laboratory with neonate fall armyworm (FAW) larvae. Observations on maize plants include above-ground biomass, chemical analysis of silicon and nitrogen content, NIRS measurement of leaf electrochemical parameters (pH, redox potential, and electrical conductivity), and per cent leaf disk damage by FAW after 72h of AI. Observations on FAW larvae after 72h of infestation include head capsule widths and individual larvae weights.