Multivariate analysis in the development of technology packages for corn cultivation by adding fertilizer to compost

Abstract

The development of cultivation technology is crucial for increasing corn (Zea mays L.) production in many parts of the world, including Indonesia. Combination of variety, planting systems, chemical fertilizers, and biofertilizers were developed in a previous study. However, such combinations must be more sustainable by including fertilizer to compost. A practical and systematic approach such as multivariate analysis is needed to increase the effectiveness of the evaluation of cultivation technology. Therefore, the study aimed to identify the best combination of compost rates with previously developed cultivation packages based on multivariate analysis. A split-plot design was used with a randomized complete group design as an environmental design. The main plot consisted of eight Farid cultivation packages (FP); each plot had eight levels (combination of variety, chemical fertilizer, and biofertilizer). Meanwhile, the subplots were four compost (C) rates, namely C0: 0 t ha-1, C1: 2 t ha-1, C2: 4 t ha-1, and C3: 6 t ha-1. Results showed that ear length (coefficient of evaluation index (CEI) = 0.164), number of kernel rows per ear (CEI = 0.067), and 1000-grain weight (CEI = 0.014) can be recommended as supporting characteristics or yield correction factors (CEI = 0.442), in which yield is the main characteristic. This study recommends combining the Farid package consisting of NK variety + fertilizer rate N:P:K = 200:100:50 + 25 kg KNO3 + Ecofarming 5 cm3 L-1 with 2, 4, and 6 t ha-1 compost rates as an alternative technology for corn cultivation.