Enhancing of shallot (Allium cepa L. var. ascalonicum) yield through soil organic carbon improvement by blotong compost application

Department of Agricultural Production, Politeknik Negeri Jember, Indonesia

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Abstract

Shallots ( Allium cepa L. var. ascalonicum) are one of the most important commodities. The decline in productivity is not only related to fluctuations in planting area, but also to a decline in soil fertility, which is largely due to a lack of organic matter returning to the soil. National data shows that 72% of agricultural land contains less than 2% soil organic carbon, which is classified as low. This study aims to increase soil organic carbon content and shallots productivity through the application of blotong compost. This study evaluated four technology packages: (i) consisting of 30 tons per hectare of blotong compost combined with PGPR; (ii) 30 tons per hectare of blotong compost alone; (iii) PGPR alone; and (iv) as a control without the application of blotong compost or PGPR. The treatments were analyzed using LSD. The results showed that the application of 30 tons per hectare of blotong compost significantly increased the soil's organic carbon content, which in turn increased the growth and yield of shallots. These findings highlight the potential of blotong compost as an organic amendment to restore soil fertility and support a sustainable shallot production.