RESPONSE OF TWO VARIETIES OF MAIZE TO APPLICATION OF AMELIORANTS IN SALINE SOIL

Abstract

Background. Salinity cause reducing the growth and yield of crops. The application of ameliorants was an alternative to reduce salinity stress and increasing the growth and yield of crops. Objective. To evaluate the response of maize crops with ameliorants application on saline soil. Methodology. The research was conducted in Sidomukti Village District, Brondong Lamongan. The research used split-plot designs with main plots were varieties (P-21 and Bisma) and subplots were ameliorant types (without ameliorant, cow manure, gypsum, Sunhemp (Crotalaria juncea) and rice straw). Results. The application of ameliorants at saline soil reducing salinity stress with increasing the growth and yield of maize. Gypsum and cow manure were appropriate to increase growth and yield of both maize varieties P-21 and Bisma. Gypsum and cow were also increasing the content of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium of plants, as well as reducing the content of proline, Na and Cl shoot root ratio. Implications. Crops production in saline soil can use ameliorants e.g. cow manure and gypsum. Conclusion. The use of ameliorants such as gypsum or cow manure can increase maize growth and yield in saline soil.