Utilization of Red Mud and Biofertilizer for Peat Quality Improvement and Its Effect on the Growth and Production of Hybrid Corn

Abstract

Peatlands are suboptimal lands that can be improved its quality to be used for agricultural cultivation. One of which is by using red mud and biofertilizer. Red mud, a by-product of bauxite processing, is widely available in West Kalimantan. Red mud has high pH, electrical conductivity, exchangeable sodium and base saturation. Biofertilizers are products containing selected microorganisms that can help enhance plant growth and yield. This study aims to examine the effects of red mud and biofertilizer applications on peat quality improvement and their impact on the growth and yield of hybrid corn. The experiment was arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) with two factors. The first factor was red mud with three dosage levels: control (l0), 6 tons/ha (l1), and 12 tons/ha (l2). The second factor was biofertilizer with three types: control (p0), Mycofer at 10 g/plant (p0), and Provibio at 10 ml/l (p2). The results showed that red mud at a dose of 12 tons/ha significantly affected soil pH, electrical conductivity, plant growth, and hybrid corn yield. The interaction of 12 tons/ha red mud and Provibio biofertilizer significantly increased sodium content and achieved the highest uptake of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.