Effect of Manure and Potassium Fertilizer on the Growth, Yield, and Quality of Sweet Corn (Zea mays saccharata)

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effect of manure and potassium fertilizer application on the growth and yield of sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata). The experiment was conducted in Ringinanom Village, Nganjuk Regency, from June to August 2025 using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with two factors: manure dosage (0, 4, 8, and 12 kg/plot) and potassium fertilizer dosage (0, 3, 5, and 6 g/plant). The results showed that both manure and potassium fertilizers significantly affected plant growth and yield. For plant height, manure at 4–8 kg/plot resulted in the best growth up to the late vegetative stage (44 days after planting). The highest number of leaves was obtained from the combination of 12 kg/plot manure and 5 g/plant potassium fertilizer. At the generative stage, potassium at 5 g/plant produced the longest ear (20.33 cm) and the largest ear diameter (4.91 cm). These findings indicate that combining organic manure with potassium fertilizer enhances nutrient uptake efficiency, photosynthetic activity, and generative organ formation. Agronomically, the integration of organic and inorganic fertilizers effectively improves soil fertility and optimizes sweet corn productivity.

Keywords:

Manure Fertilizer, Pottasium Fertilizer, Sweet Corn, Yield and Production

Manure Fertilizer, Pottasium Fertilizer, Sweet Corn, Yield and Production