Effect of Organic Fertilizers and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on Nutrient Residue and Growth of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effects of organic fertilizers and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth and fertilizer residues. The research was conducted at Jatimulyo Experimental Farm, Malang, using a split-plot design with 12 treatment combinations of organic fertilizers and PGPR. The results showed that the application of organic fertilizers increased soil organic carbon content, while PGPR contributed to improving nitrogen and potassium efficiency by reducing nutrient losses. However, the efficiency of phosphorus from inorganic fertilizers remained low, with most of the phosphorus retained in the soil and not absorbed by plants. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that plant growth parameters were more influenced by inorganic fertilizer treatments than organic ones. This research provides important insights for the development of sustainable agricultural technologies that enhance soil quality and reduce dependence on inorganic fertilizers.