Pengaruh Pemberian Bokashi Kotoran Ayam dengan Daun Gamal terhadap Produktivitas Rumput Gajah (Pennisetum purpureum)

Abstract

Bokashi is an organic fertilizer produced from fermentation using EM4 technology, used to enrich soil and suppress soil-borne pathogens, which can enhance plant growth and production. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of chicken manure bokashi mixed with gamal leaves on the productivity of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum). The observed parameters were fresh matter production, dry matter production, plant height, leaf length, number of leaves, and number of tillers. This research was conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 5 replications. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and DMRT. The bokashi fertilizer used in this study was analyzed for macronutrient and micronutrient content, showing total nitrogen (N) of 2.04%, P2O5 of 2.30%, and K2O of 5.70%. The results showed that the application of chicken manure bokashi with gamal leaves had a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on plant height, leaf length, number of leaves, number of tillers, and fresh and dry weight production of elephant grass. The best treatment was obtained at a dose of P3 (600 grams/polybag), which resulted in an average plant height of 84.10 cm, leaf length of 67.15 cm, number of leaves 35.42, and number of tillers 14.29. The highest fresh weight production was recorded at 168.37 g, while dry weight reached 40.41 g. These results indicate that increasing the dose of chicken manure bokashi with gamal leaves can significantly enhance elephant grass productivity. This study concludes that the use of chicken manure bokashi with gamal leaves is an effective alternative to improve the growth and yield of elephant grass, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.