Management Of Organic And Potassium Fertilizer On The Growth And Production Of Rosella Plants (Hibiscus Sabdarffa L.)
Introduction
The use of organic and potassium fertilizers has become a crucial aspect of modern agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of rosella plants (Hibiscus sabdarffa L.). Rosella plants are annual plants that can grow in various climate conditions, ranging from tropical to subtropical regions. This plant has many benefits, including as raw material for making health drinks, jams, and other foods. The content of vitamin C, antioxidants, and high food fiber makes rosella a plant that is rich in benefits.
However, the growth and production of rosella plants can be influenced by various factors, including the type and amount of fertilizer used. This study aims to examine the effect of organic and potassium fertilizer on the growth and production of rosella plants. The study was conducted on the experimental land of Sempakata Village, Medan Selayang District, North Sumatra, in December 2009 to April 2010.
Methodology
The research method used was a Factorial Random Design (RAK) with two main factors: Dosage of Organic Fertilizer (0, 100, 200, 300 grams per plant) and dose of potassium fertilizer (0, 15, 30, 45 grams per plant). The parameters observed in this study include:
- Plant height at age 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 weeks after planting (MSPT)
- Age of flowering (days)
- Number of branches per plant
- Number of petals per plant
- Harvest age (day)
- Wet weight per sample plant (gram)
- Dry weight per sample plant (gram)
Results
The results of the study show that:
- Organic fertilizer has a significant effect on plant height at the ages of 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 14 MSPT, flowering age, harvest age, number of branches, number of lids, wet weight, and dry weight. This effect shows that organic fertilizer plays an important role in increasing vegetative and generative growth of rosella plants.
- Potassium fertilizer significantly affects the height of the plant at the ages of 4 and 6 MSPT, the number of branches, the number of lids, and wet weight. Potassium fertilizer has a positive influence on the initial growth and development of plant reproductive organs.
- Interaction between the administration of organic fertilizer and potassium fertilizer does not significantly affect all parameters. This shows that the two types of fertilizers do not affect each other in encouraging the growth and production of rosella plants.
Discussion
The results of this study show that the use of organic and potassium fertilizer has a positive effect on the growth and production of rosella plants. Organic fertilizer contains a variety of macro and micro nutrients needed by rosella plants. In addition, organic fertilizer also improves soil structure, increases water retention, and increases the activity of soil microorganisms.
Potassium fertilizer plays an important role in the process of photosynthesis, root development, and plant growth. Potassium also helps increase plant resistance to disease and improve the quality of fruit or flowers. The application of organic and potassium fertilizer can optimally increase the harvest of rosella plants.
Conclusion
This study shows that the use of organic fertilizer and potassium fertilizer has a positive effect on the growth and production of rosella plants. The application of organic fertilizer optimally can increase overall plant growth, while potassium fertilizer increases the initial growth and development of the reproductive organs.
Suggestion
Further research can be done by observing the effect of various types of organic fertilizer and the dose of potassium fertilizer on the growth and production of rosella plants. Research can also be done in various types of soil and environmental conditions to obtain more comprehensive data.
Additional Information
Rosella plants are annual plants that can grow in various climate conditions, ranging from tropical to subtropical regions. This plant has many benefits, including as raw material for making health drinks, jams, and other foods. The content of vitamin C, antioxidants, and high food fiber makes rosella a plant that is rich in benefits.
By understanding the nutritional needs of rosella plants and implementing appropriate fertilization strategies, farmers can increase yields and get better profits.
Q: What are the benefits of using organic fertilizer on rosella plants?
A: Organic fertilizer contains a variety of macro and micro nutrients needed by rosella plants. In addition, organic fertilizer also improves soil structure, increases water retention, and increases the activity of soil microorganisms.
Q: How does potassium fertilizer affect the growth and production of rosella plants?
A: Potassium fertilizer plays an important role in the process of photosynthesis, root development, and plant growth. Potassium also helps increase plant resistance to disease and improve the quality of fruit or flowers.
Q: What is the optimal dosage of organic fertilizer for rosella plants?
A: The optimal dosage of organic fertilizer for rosella plants is 200 grams per plant. However, the dosage may vary depending on the type of organic fertilizer used and the specific growing conditions.
Q: Can I use a combination of organic and potassium fertilizer on rosella plants?
A: Yes, you can use a combination of organic and potassium fertilizer on rosella plants. However, it is essential to follow the recommended dosages and application schedules to avoid over-fertilization.
Q: How often should I apply organic and potassium fertilizer to rosella plants?
A: The frequency of application depends on the type of fertilizer used and the specific growing conditions. Generally, organic fertilizer can be applied once a month, while potassium fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 weeks.
Q: What are the potential risks of over-fertilization on rosella plants?
A: Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient imbalances, soil pollution, and reduced plant growth. It is essential to follow the recommended dosages and application schedules to avoid over-fertilization.
Q: Can I use other types of fertilizer on rosella plants?
A: Yes, you can use other types of fertilizer on rosella plants, such as nitrogen-based fertilizers or phosphorus-based fertilizers. However, it is essential to follow the recommended dosages and application schedules to avoid over-fertilization.
Q: How can I determine the nutritional needs of my rosella plants?
A: You can determine the nutritional needs of your rosella plants by conducting soil tests and analyzing the plant's growth and production. You can also consult with a gardening expert or a soil scientist for personalized advice.
Q: What are the benefits of using rosella plants as a crop?
A: Rosella plants have many benefits, including as raw material for making health drinks, jams, and other foods. The content of vitamin C, antioxidants, and high food fiber makes rosella a plant that is rich in benefits.
Q: Can I grow rosella plants in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow rosella plants in containers. However, it is essential to provide adequate light, water, and nutrients to the plants to ensure optimal growth and production.
Q: How can I control pests and diseases on rosella plants?
A: You can control pests and diseases on rosella plants by using integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, such as crop rotation, biological control, and chemical control. It is essential to follow the recommended dosages and application schedules to avoid over-control.
Q: What are the potential economic benefits of growing rosella plants?
A: The potential economic benefits of growing rosella plants include increased yields, improved quality, and higher market prices. By understanding the nutritional needs of rosella plants and implementing appropriate fertilization strategies, farmers can increase yields and get better profits.