Response of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) to the Application of Grade B Polychar Plus Granule

Department of Agricultural Production, Politeknik Negeri Jember, Jl Mastrip PO Box 164 Jember, Indonesia

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Abstract

Polychar plus granules grade B are a synergistic formulation of carbon-rich biochar, enriched goat manure, and inorganic fertilizers (1:2:1/2), packaged in granular to increase nutrient availability and rehabilitate degraded land. This study examined the effects of different application rates of this granule on soil chemical properties and the early growth of sugarcane seedlings. The experiment was carried out from July to October 2025 using two sugarcane varieties, Cenning (V1) and NXI-4T (V2), and four fertilizer doses: P0 (control), P1 (125 g/polybag), P2 (250 g/polybag), and P3 (375 g/polybag). Growth parameters were evaluated using ANOVA followed by an LSD test at the 5% level. Application of 125 g/polybag (P1) significantly increased soil potassium availability and resulted in higher plant height and leaf number in the NXI-4T variety at 42 days after planting. No significant effects were observed at other growth stages or on tiller formation. Higher doses (P2 and P3) tended to reduce growth likely due to reduced nutrient uptake efficiency. Overall, the results indicate that a moderate dose of Polychar Plus Granule can effectively replace up to 50% of inorganic fertilizer without reducing sugarcane seedling performance, offering a promising option for sustainable sugarcane nursery management.