Optimizing Nutrient Management: Slow-Release NPK Granule Fertilizer Enhanced with Zeolite and Humic Acid for Sustainable Plantation Crops

Abstract

A study focused on addressing the efficiency issues associated with NPK fertilizer, which is crucial for plant growth but prone to nutrient loss through various mechanisms such as leaching, volatilization, and denitrification. This research investigates the potential of zeolite and humic acid in controlling the release of nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) from NPK Granule Plus fertilizer. NPK Granules Plus are made by mixing NPK fertilizer with zeolite and humic acid as a coating for controlled-release fertilizer (CRF). Incubation experiment was carried out at the Department of Soil Science and Land Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University to determine the release pattern of NPK Granule Plus in the soil. At the same time, field experiments were carried out in rubber plantations and kopyor coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) plants planted at Karangnunggal District, Tasikmalaya, West Java to determine the effect on rubber production and growth of kopyor coconut. The results of the study demonstrate that the application of NPK Granule Pus effectively mitigates the slower release of N and K. Application of NPK Granule Plus 300 kg/ha to rubber plants increased the rubber latex production by 28% over control. Meanwhile, application of NPK Granule Plus fertilizer to kopyor coconut plants increased the plant height, plant diameter, and number of leaves compared to those of NPK Granule Conventional Fertilizer. These findings suggest that the use of zeolite and humic acid in NPK Granule Plus holds promise for optimizing nutrient retention in plantation crops, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and increasing production of plants.