The present invention includes a material and method of installing a construction material for dry or arid climates, comprising: a growth media comprising an abiotic porous material and activated charcoal such as biochar； and at least one of a compost, grain hulls and nut shells, wherein plants in the material are able to survive without exogenous water for use in areas comprising at least one of Aw, BS, BW, Csa, Csb, Ds or Dw climates according to the Koppen-Geiger climate classification.
