Optimization of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Concentration for Enhanced Growth and Biomass of Pakcoy Brassica rapa L.) in Wick System Hydroponic Cultivation
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the effect of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) concentrations on the growth of pakcoy Brassica rapa L.) cultivated hydroponically. The experiment was conducted in Toabo Village, Papalang Subdistrict, Mamuju Regency, West Sulawesi Province, from March to April 2024. The research employed a Randomized Block Design with five PGPR concentration treatments: control (no PGPR), 15 ml/L, 20 ml/L, 25 ml/L, and 30 ml/L, each replicated three times. The observed parameters included plant height, number of leaves, edible weight, root weight, and total plant weight. The results showed that PGPR application significantly affected plant height, root weight, and total plant weight, but had no significant effect on the number of leaves and edible weight. The best treatment was obtained with 30 ml/L PGPR, yielding an average plant height of 27.83 cm, root weight of 22.06 g, and total plant weight of 76.67 g. This study recommends the application of 30 ml/L PGPR to improve the growth and yield of hydroponically grown pakcoy.