Analysis of soil fertility levels for patchouli plants (<i>Pogostemon cablin</i> Benth) in Aceh Utara Regency

Abstract Patchouli oil is one of the essential oils that is needed in the perfume, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and other industries. This oil is produced from the distillation process of the leaves, stems and twigs of the patchouli plant. One of the best patchouli producing areas in Indonesia is Aceh Province. One of the factors that makes patchouli grow well is the availability of soil nutrients. The aim of this research is to determine the nutrient levels of soil that will be used as a location for new patchouli cultivation in Aceh Utara Regency. The method used in this research is laboratory analysis for levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, pH and soil organic C. The research results show that Batu Delapan Village has a very fertile soil fertility status, then Sido Mulyo, Reuleut, and Paloh Lada Villages have a fertile soil fertility status, while Cot Tufah Village has a less fertile soil fertility status. The research results also show that the P 2 O 5 and K 2 O criteria for the five locations are low - medium, so fertilization treatment is necessary. According to this information, there are four villages with highly fertile soil.