[Objective] The impacts of different forage species and biochar application on soil moisture were studied in order to provide a scientific support for ecological restoration and soil improvement in karst rocky desertification areas.[Methods] The pot experiment was conducted with Paspalum thunbergii, Lolium perenne and Dolichos lablab and with the soils mixed with biochar, and the soil moisture content was periodically determined.[Results] There were significant differences in soil water holding capacity and soil saturated hydraulic conductivity among P. thunbergii, L. perenne and D. lablab, with the order as follows:P. thunbergii > L. perenne > D. lablab. After applying 5% biochar, the soil water content of P. thunbergii, L. perenne and D. lablab increased to certain degrees on rainy or dry days of spring and summer, and the soil water holding capacity and saturated hydraulic conductivity of planting grass significantly increased, and the order was also P. thunbergii > L. perenne > D. lablab.[Conclusion] Biochar application obviously improved soil water holding capacity, which was beneficial to pasture growth.