EVALUASI KESESUAIAN LAHAN TANAMAN BAWANG MERAH (Allium cepa L.) DI KECAMATAN SAPE KABUPATEN BIMA PROVINSI NUSA TENGGARA BARAT

Abstract

This study evaluates the actual and potential land suitability for shallot crops (Allium cepa L.) in Sape Sub-District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, using the modified FAO approach by the Ministry of Agriculture. Methods included field surveys, laboratory analysis (e.g., P₂O₅, C-organic), and land unit mapping. Results indicate that actual suitability is predominantly marginally suitable (S3) for land units 1, 3-5, 7-10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19-21 due to limiting factors such as rainfall/P₂O₅ (S3wa.na), drainage (S3oa in units 9-10), soil depth (S3rc), C-organic (S3nr in unit 16), slope/erosion hazard (S3eh), and not suitable (N) for units 2, 6, 11, 14, 15, 18; potential suitability improves to moderately suitable (S2) for most units with management interventions. Recommendations encompass drainage improvements, terracing, and fertilization.