Optimization of Nitrogen Fertilization in Corn Plants to Increase Yields on Marginal Land

Abstract

This study aims to optimize nitrogen fertilization in corn (Zea mays) to increase yields on marginal land. Marginal land often experiences nutrient deficiencies, especially nitrogen, which have a negative impact on plant growth and productivity. In this study, an experiment was conducted using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) involving five nitrogen fertilizer dose treatments, namely 0 kg N/ha (control), 75 kg N/ha, 150 kg N/ha, 225 kg N/ha, and 300 kg N/ha. The parameters observed included plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, fresh weight of cobs, and yield. The results showed that nitrogen fertilization significantly increased all growth parameters and yields of corn. The highest dose (300 kg N/ha) produced an average plant height of 180 cm, stem diameter of 4.5 cm, leaf area of ​​550 cm², fresh weight of cobs of 0.9 kg, and yields reaching 8 tons/ha. These findings support the hypothesis that increased nitrogen availability positively contributes to vegetative growth and yield of corn. This study provides practical recommendations for farmers to apply nitrogen fertilization optimally on marginal land to increase corn productivity. Further research directions are suggested to explore the long-term effects of nitrogen fertilization and the combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers for agricultural sustainability.