Proceedings - Balai Penelitian Tanah

166
Chairunas
Anjasmoro produced a significantly (>50%) higher yield than the
current local variety but the other varieties in this trial did not
significantly out-yield the local variety. Assessment of the data
collected on other traits in the new varieties is needed to identify any
other advantages or disadvantages compared to the local variety.
There is no significant or consistent trend in yield response between
the treatments. Heavy rain immediately after planting likely caused
cross contamination between the treatments. The rate of manure in
this trial was low (2 t/ha) and did not show a significant yield response.
Manure may not be readily available locally or may already be
allocated to other uses.
SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER WORK
A key message for soybean farmers is that there is no way of knowing
the survival of Rhizobium from one season to another, and its
distribution across a paddock is likely to be uneven, particularly if the
paddock is also used for rice. In addition, the tsunami will have had a
harmful impact on soil biota, especially Rhizobium. Therefore, it is
best practice to inoculate every soybean crop in order to have good
nodulation early to assist crop establishment and the provision of
nitrogen throughout the growing cycle.
The development of a soybean planting protocol for local PPL and
leading farmers – including recommended varieties, inoculant, crop
nutrition and plant spacing – is a priority, particularly in light of the
Indonesian Government’s plan proposed plan for increasing soybean
production in Aceh. Further agronomy trials on soybean crop nutrition,
plant spacing, and weed management may be beneficial. Investigation
of alternative local sources for use as organic amendments to improve
soil structure and productivity. Coconut and other plant fibres appear
to be abundant at this site and may be suited to composting or biochar
production for soil amendment.
Soybean is an ideal crop for developing IPM and reducing reliance on
pesticides. This may be a suitable soybean growing area in which to
introduce an IPM (and other) training programs for local farmers.
Local farmers have expressed the desire for training and knowledge
as opposed to one-off inputs.
CONCLUSION
Anjasmoro was identified as the best soybean variety in tsunamiaffected
land, producing on average 3.4 ton.ha -1 . The use of manure
and rice ash could could substitute for NPK fertilizer, but should be
tested in field demonstrations to determine the economic rates for
organic and inorganic fertilisers.
International Workshop on Post Tsunami Soil Management, 1-2 July 2008 in Bogor, Indonesia