The Correlation Model between Microclimates and Potato Plant Growth

• Published in: International journal on advanced science, engineering and information technology Vol. 11; no. 1; pp. 223 - 228
• Main Authors: Iriany, Aniek, Iriany, Atiek, Sulistyono, Agus Dwi
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 19.02.2021
• ISSN: 2088-5334; 2088-5334
• DOI: 10.18517/ijaseit.11.1.7515

Mulch in vegetable crops will provide a good growing environment for plants because it can reduce evaporation, prevent direct exposure to excessive sunlight to land, and maintain soil humidity for the plant to absorb water and nutrients optimally. The use of plastic mulch, especially silver, black plastic mulch in vegetable production with high economic value, is continuously increasing in line with the increasing needs and consumers’ demand for vegetable products. Various studies have shown that mulch can increase crop yields, improve crop quality, and ultimately improve farming efficiency. This study aimed to determine the relationship between microclimate and potato growth due to the use of different mulch types. The research method uses an experimental design using a random group design. The study was conducted in the District of Bumiaji, Batu city, East Java, Indonesia. Observations were made for climate components, namely air temperature, soil temperature, the radiation received by a crop canopy, and reflected radiation by the soil's surface. Simultaneously, the measured growth variables were the plant's height, the number of leaves, the leaves' width, stem diameter, and the stover's dry weight. This study showed that silver-black-plastic mulch provides the highest growth of potato compared to other treatments. The use of silver-black plastic mulch lowers the soil's temperature, maintains soil moisture, and increases the PAR above the plant canopy.