Response of Growth and Yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) to NPK Fertilizer Application and Mulch Treatment
Abstract
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is an important horticultural crop in Indonesia, valued for its high market demand and short growth cycle. However, its productivity is often constrained by suboptimal nutrient management and unfavorable growing conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the interactive effects of NPK fertilizer dosages and mulch types on the growth and yield of cucumber plants. A factorial randomized block design was employed, with three levels of NPK fertilizer (0, 200, and 300 kg/ha) and three types of mulch (no mulch, silver-black plastic mulch, and straw mulch), resulting in nine treatment combinations, each replicated three times. The results showed that NPK application significantly increased fruit number and yield, with 200 kg/ha considered optimal for economic efficiency. Mulching, particularly with straw, significantly improved fruit weight and overall plant performance. However, the interaction between fertilizer and mulch was not statistically significant for most parameters, although the combination of 300 kg/ha NPK and straw mulch tended to produce the best outcomes in plant height, flowering time, and fruit quality. These findings suggest that balanced fertilization combined with appropriate mulching practices can enhance cucumber productivity sustainably. The study contributes to the development of more efficient cultivation strategies for cucumbers in tropical agricultural systems.
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