Application of biostimulant consortium to increase the growth of sugarcane (Var. Cenning) in a dry land

Abstract

Abstract Sugarcane is considered one of the most promising crops. The growth of the crop is affected by photosynthesis and toter and nutrient absorption by plants. Biostimulant is a non-nutrient biomaterial that is proven to improve crop growth. Based on this idea, Biostimulant technology can be used as an alternative to enhance sugarcane growth. This research aimed to assess the Biostimulant consortium (Sucrosin, humic acid, and AM fungal) to improve the growth of the sugarcane var. Cenning in a dry land. The study tested two treatments, i.e., control (standard procedures) and Biostimulant Consortium application. Sucrosin was applied on 1, 3, 4, and 5 months after planting (MAP) by using a foliar spray. Application of mycorrhizal fungi was spread around the roots area of sugarcane crops. In contrast, the application of humic acid was sprayed on the ground as a coating agent for inorganic fertilizers. Coating fertilizer is carried out by mixing a humic acid solution with as much as 1% of the fertilizer. The research showed the treatment of the Biostimulant Consortium yielded significant results in the sugarcane growth compared to the control on 8 MAP. Biostimulant Consortium can improve crop height and stem diameter significantly up to 30-40% compared to control. It indicates that the Biostimulant consortium’s treatment can improve sugarcane’s vegetative growth in s dry land.