Effect of planting densities and fertilization levels on the production and quality of Chicory (Cichorium intybus) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

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This study was aimed to determine the growth, production, and nutrient content of Cichorium intybus planted in different planting densities and fertilization levels in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The study was arranged on factorial randomized design (3 x 3) with two factors: level of fertilization (0, 45, and 60 kg/ha) and planting density (2, 3, and 4 g of seeds/m2); with 6 replications – aggregating 54 plots. Chicory seeds were spread on 1 x 1.5 m2 plots with 20 cm of bedding height and 30 cm of distance between plots. NPK fertilizer was given when plants reached 15 days old. Plants were harvested at day-50 by cutting them 10 cm above the soil surface. The observation was performed on these following variables: growth (plant height, plant length, and leaf width), production (dry and organic matter production), and nutrient value (crude protein, dry and organic matter contents). All data were statistically evaluated using of the SPSS computer program. Significant treatments were subjected to Duncan’s new multiple range test (DMRT). The study shows that plants which received the greatest amount of fertilizer had the highest growth, production, and nutrient value (P-value <0.05). Higher planting density compensated the plant height, leaf width, number of leaves, dry and organic matter contents (P-value <0.05). However, it escalated the dry and organic matter production (P-value <0.05). The plant that received 60 kg/ha of fertilizer and planted in 3 g/m2 density demonstrated the most improved yield.