Combined effects of provenance and NPK-fertilizer on nursery performance of kelor ( Moringa oleifera) seedlings

Abstract

Kelor (Moringa oleifera) is a superfood that serves potential benefits as a highly nutritious food. The research on kelor in Riau, Indonesia, is still very rare. This study aimed to determine the effect of a combination between provenances and doses of NPK-fertilizer on the growth of kelor seedlings in the nursery. The study was conducted from March to June 2020 in Kuok, Kampar regency, Riau. It was a factorial trial arranged in a split-plot design with three replications. Two provenances from Riau and NTT were arranged as the main plot. Four level doses of NPK-fertilizer, 5 g, 7 g, 9 g, and 0 g, were arranged as the subplot. Seedling height, diameter, survival, number of leaves, and leaf colour were observed. The interaction between P2 and F2 had the best effect on diameter at 3 MAS, while P2 and F4 had the best effect on survival at 1 MAS. The dose of 5 g NPK tended to have a better effect on the height, the number of leaves, survival, and leaf colour at 1 MAS. To stimulate the diameter growth, additional doses of NPK can be given after the kelor seedling reaches a minimum age of 3 MAS.