Total root dry weight per soil volume in maize by application of organic fertilizer reducing use of N, P and K fertilizer on terraced land

Abstract

Corn plants are usually cultivated on dry land so that soil and crop management is required. The aim of this study was to know the total root dry weight per soil volume with the application of BK organic fertilizer to reduce the use of N, P and K fertilizers. The study was carried out by Randomized Block Design with 3 replications. Treatment consisted of 11 levels, with and without application of BK organic fertilizer and various level of NPK doses. Data analyzed by ANOVA and DMRT and the effectiveness of organic fertilizer was measured by equation of RAE (Relative Agronomic Effectiveness). The results showed that BK organic fertilizer significantly affected yields and root dry mass. Suggested treatment was K (1.5 t ha−1 bokashi + 300 kg ha−1 NPK + 150 kg ha−1 urea) with RAE reached 239.5%. Total root dry mass was 9.27 g cm−3 and the highest yield was 11.38 t ha−1. Treatment with 1.5 t ha−1 bokashi + 300 kg ha−1 NPK + 150 kg ha−1 Urea reduces the use of 50 kg ha−1 of Urea and 100 kg ha−1 of NPK fertilizer.