Evaluation of nutrition status and fertilization recommendations for lowland paddy (Case study in Merigi Kelindang District, Bengkulu Central Regency)

Abstract

Farmer fertilization doses are generally insufficient compared to the recommended doses therefore causing low productivity of rice plants. This study aims to evaluate soil nutrient status to determine site-specific fertilization recommendations in Merigi Kelindang District, Central Bengkulu Regency. This study was carried out in February-April 2022 in Merigi Kelindang District, Central Bengkulu Regency, Bengkulu Province. Data was collected by taking composite soil samples at random after harvesting or before the first tillage. Determination of nutrient levels of N, P, K, and soil pH using the at Paddy Soil Test Kit. Data were analyzed descriptively comparatively. The results showed that the nutrient status of paddy fields in Merigi Kelindang District was low N 72%, medium N 14%, high N 7%, and very high 7%. P nutrient status was medium at 93% and low at 7%. High K nutrient status 100%. Meanwhile, pH status is acidic at 7% and slightly acidic at 93%. Recommendations for fertilizer usage in the Merigi Kelindang sub-district as follow; Urea 300 kg/ha for sandy soil (clay content < 20%) or 250 kg in clayey soil (clay content >20%); SP-36 fertilizer (100 kg/ha); KCl (50 kg/ha) without the use of paddy straw as compost and no KCL needed if 5 t/ha paddy straw compost used. Recommendations for soil management with a soil pH value of 5-6 (slightly acidic) are conventional drainage systems and the application of urea as N fertilizer.