Application of Ameliorants and Mycorrhiza on Sandy Soil for the Cultivation of Glutinous Corn (Zea mays ceratina)

Abstract

Aims: This research seeks to assess the impact of different combinations of ameliorants and mycorrhiza on the growth and productivity of glutinous corn cultivated in sandy soil. Study Design: This study used a Randomized Block Design (RBD). Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in Moncok Village, Ampenan District, Mataram City, Indonesia. Methodology: The study evaluated five different ameliorant mixture treatments: (A1) a combination of 50% cow manure and 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, (A2) 50% compost mixed with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, (A3) 50% "Subur" organic fertilizer paired with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, (A4) 50% rice husk charcoal combined with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, and (A5) a blend of various ameliorants, each contributing 50%, with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer. The parameters measured included plant height, leaf count, fresh and dry biomass weight, cob weight, soil nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content, plant uptake of N and P, spore count, mycorrhizal colonization, and overall harvest yield. Results: The combination of 50% cow manure and 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer resulted in the optimal growth and yield of glutinous corn, showing a significant difference (P<0.05) compared to the other treatments. This mixture led to increases in plant height, leaf count, biomass weight, cob weight, cob diameter and length, as well as improved nutrient concentration and uptake by the plants. Moreover, it promoted a higher number of spores and greater mycorrhizal root colonization. Conclusion: The application of a 50% cow manure and 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer mixture significantly (P<0.05) improved soil fertility, mycorrhizal activity, and growth and yield of glutinous corn cultivated on sandy soil.