The Influence of NPK Fertilizer Doses and Growing Media on the Growth of Nutmeg Seedlings (Myristica fragrans Houtt)

Abstract

Nutmeg nurseries are crucial for increasing production and ensuring the sustainability of nutmeg cultivation in South Aceh. Fertilizers and planting media are key factors for supporting healthy seedling growth. This study aims to explore the effects of NPK fertilizer and planting media on nutmeg seedling growth. The research was conducted at the University Farm, Teuku Umar University, from August to November 2024. The experiment used a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with two factors: fertilizer dosage (five levels: no fertilizer, 2.5 g, 5 g, 7.5 g, and 10 g per polybag) and planting media (four types: alluvial soil, alluvial soil with rice husk charcoal, alluvial soil with manure, and alluvial soil with sand). The growth parameters measured were seedling height, number of leaves, and stem diameter. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), followed by a Tukey test if significant differences were found. The results showed that fertilizer dosage significantly affected plant height at 42 days after planting, with the best results at 5 g per polybag. The highest increase in leaf number at 28 and 56 days was seen with 7.5 g per polybag. The planting media also significantly influenced seedling height and leaf number, with the best results from a mix of soil and organic fertilizer. The best combination of fertilizer and planting media was 7.5 g of fertilizer with soil and rice husk charcoal.