The impact of ZA substitution with organic fertilizer through red ginger’s growth and yield in mixed cropping with maize and cassava

Abstract

The study aimed to obtain partial or complete replacement of N in ZA fertilizers with organic fertilizers without reducing, and even increasing yields in the context of sustainable agriculture in mixed crops with maize and cassava. The research was held in Wonorejo Village, Karanganyar, Indonesia in March-August 2020. The research was using one factor RCBD, four treatments, six replications, namely Control, 100% ZA, 50% ZA + 50% organic fertilizer, and 100% organic fertilizer. Data analysis using ANOVA and DMRT 5%. The result showed that 100% organic fertilizer influenced significantly on plant height, number of leaves and tillers, fresh and dry straw weight, stored rhizomes weight, dry weight of maize kernels and cassava tubers. Mixed crops are more efficient in land use than monoculture crops (LER > 1), but not in time used from planting to harvest (ATER < 1). Subsistence farmers are suitable to apply mixed crops because it is more profitable in terms of food needs fulfillment.