Potassium Uptake Effectiveness in Oil Palm Cultivation at Bp1 Estate, PT. Pilar Wanapersada

Abstract

Potassium (K) is an essential macronutrient that plays a key role in various physiological processes of oil palm, including enzyme activation, translocation of photosynthates, regulation of water balance, and fruit-bunch formation. One environmentally friendly alternative for supplying potassium is the use of composted oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB), which also contributes to the sustainable management of plantation waste. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of EFB compost application on the potassium uptake of oil palm at BP1 Estate, PT Pilar Wanapersada. The research was conducted from June to December 2025 using a non-factorial randomized block design (RBD) with three treatment levels: without EFB (P0), EFB at 30 t/ha (P1), and EFB at 40 t/ha (P2), each replicated five times. The observed parameter was plant potassium uptake. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) at the 95% confidence level, followed by Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at the 5% level. The results showed that EFB compost application had a significant effect on potassium uptake throughout the observation period. Potassium uptake increased in all treatments over time, indicating ongoing compost decomposition and the gradual release of potassium. The findings indicate that EFB compost, particularly at 40 t/ha, effectively increased potassium uptake and has the potential to serve as an organic potassium source supporting sustainable oil palm productivity.