The potential of Inceptisol soil for rice development in Boven Digoel, Papua

Abstract Boven Digoel has excellent potential for rice development because the land suitability evaluation showed land suitability class for rice cultivation, it is covered a wide area and supported by local government. As a border area with a strategic role, new land clearing is essential for accelerating agricultural development in Papua. However, the rice cultivation research in new land clearing, especially in Inceptisol, is unclear and requires further investigation. This study aims to examine the potential of Inceptisol for rice cultivation in Boven Digoel, Papua. The research was conducted from February to December 2019 at Asiki, Jair District, Boven Digoel, Papua. The study was conducted using a randomized block design with 3 replications. Data collection was carried out on a plot size of 3×4 m. The research used new superior varieties: Inpari 36 Lanrang, Inpari 37 Lanrang, Inpago Rindang 1 Agritan, Inpago Rindang 2 Agritan, and Inpara 8 Agritan, which is planted in Inceptisol. Soil samples were collected in 3 plots from each planting location before tillage with 5 points of composite soil samples were taken. The measurement indicators included the soil’s physical and chemical properties, and then the data were described by descriptive analysis. The result showed Inpari 37 Lanrang produces the highest productivity (5.3 t ha −1 ) even though the soil has low fertility and nutrient availability. The availability of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients, organic matter, cation exchange capacity (CEC), base saturation (BS), and pH were low and as limiting factors for plant growth.