The Effectiveness of Nano Fertilizer from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch on The Growth of Shallots

Abstract

Shallot is a high-value horticultural crop that requires efficient nutrient management, and oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) nanofertilizer offers a potential, sustainable source of potassium. This research investigated the vegetative performance of ten shallot varieties, Bima Brebes, Crok Kuning, Srikayang, Katumi, Kramat 1, Tajuk, Ambassador 4, Maja Cipanas, Violetta 3 Agrohorti, and Bauji, to different rates of OPEFB-based nano fertilizer. A pot trial was carried out under greenhouse conditions, arranged in a completely randomized design with three replicates. Fertilizer treatments consisted of an unfertilized control, conventional KC1 fertilizer (150 kg ha −1 ), and OPEFB nano fertilizer at rates of 52, 104, 156, and 209 kg ha −1 . Vegetative parameters assessed included plant height, biomass (fresh and dry weights), and stem diameter. The results showed that OPEFB nano fertilizer significantly improved shallot growth. The application rate of 104 kg ha −1 produced the highest fresh weight (22.05 g), dry weight (11.99 g), and pseudostem diameter (6.49 mm), while maintaining plant height comparable to or higher than conventional KC1 fertilization. Bauji showed superior biomass accumulation, whereas Crok Kuning produced the tallest plants. Therefore, OPEFB nano fertilizer at 104 kg ha −1 can be considered an effective and sustainable alternative potassium fertilizer for shallot cultivation.