Application of Coconut Wood Vinegar Boosts Rice Yields with Reduced Fertilizer to Maintain Sustainable Agriculture
Introduction
Rice is the backbone of food security for millions worldwide. Yet, upland rice farming faces challenges like yield instability and soil degradation, particularly in drylands. To address these issues, researchers from Universitas Jenderal Soedirman explored how coconut shell wood vinegar (CSWV) and reduced doses of NPK fertilizer could support sustainable agriculture and boost upland rice production.
Why Coconut Shell Wood Vinegar?
Coconut shell wood vinegar (CSWV) is a liquid byproduct of coconut shell pyrolysis. It is rich in bioactive compounds such as acetic acid and phenols, which enhance soil quality, act as biopesticides, and promote plant growth. Paired with reduced NPK fertilizer doses, CSWV offers an eco-friendly solution to improve crop yields while mitigating environmental damage caused by excessive chemical fertilizers.
Experimental Setup
The study investigated the effects of varying NPK doses (50% and 100% of the recommended levels) combined with CSWV at different concentrations (1:20, 1:40, 1:60, 1:80, and 1:100) on upland rice (Inpago Unsoed 1 variety). Conducted on 350 square meters of upland soil, the experiment used a split-plot design with three replicates. CSWV was applied as a foliar spray, directly onto the plants at specified intervals, while NPK fertilizer was added to the soil in three separate applications: at 15, 30, and 45 days after sowing (DAS). The foliar application of CSWV complemented the soil-applied NPK by enhancing nutrient uptake efficiency and suppressing pests and diseases.
Key parameters included grain yield, pest and disease intensity, and yield components like panicle count and seed weight.
Key Findings
Yield Improvements with CSWV 1:20
- **Higher Grain Yield:** CSWV at a 1:20 dilution produced the highest grain yield, increasing panicle count to 23.3 per hill and filled grain percentage to 57.97%. The grain weight per hill rose to 40.22 g—a 34% improvement over untreated plots.
- **Efficient Fertilizer Use:** Combining CSWV 1:20 with 50% NPK reduced fertilizer use by half while maintaining high yields. This approach significantly improved grain production efficiency.
Pest and Disease Control
- **Reduced Pest Intensity:** CSWV's bioactive compounds suppressed pest populations, including planthoppers and leaf rollers. CSWV 1:20 showed the lowest pest and disease intensity, reducing damage from brown leaf spots to under 6%.
- **Biopesticidal Benefits:** The phenols and acetic acid in CSWV acted as natural deterrents, providing an effective alternative to synthetic pesticides.
Improved Soil Health and Nutrient Efficiency
- **Balanced Nutrient Uptake:** CSWV enhanced the availability and uptake of essential nutrients, reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers. The improved soil quality supported healthier root systems and better water retention.
- **Cost Savings:** Reducing NPK doses by 50% while using CSWV lowered input costs, making upland rice farming more economically viable.
Mechanism of Action
The success of CSWV lies in its multifunctional properties. As a bio-fertilizer, it enhances nutrient availability, boosts photosynthesis, and improves grain filling. As a biopesticide, it suppresses pest and disease intensity, ensuring healthier crops. Its low pH and organic acids contribute to better soil structure and microbial activity, creating an ideal environment for upland rice cultivation.
Implications for Sustainable Agriculture
This study underscores the potential of coconut shell wood vinegar in transforming upland rice farming. By reducing chemical fertilizer use and controlling pests naturally, CSWV offers a sustainable pathway for improving yields in dryland regions. Its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits make it a promising tool for achieving food security while protecting natural resources.
For upland rice farmers facing yield and soil fertility challenges, adopting CSWV could be a game-changer. With its dual role as a growth enhancer and biopesticide, CSWV represents a step forward in sustainable agriculture, paving the way for greener, more productive farming practices.