EVALUASI KESESUAIAN LAHAN TANAMAN PADI (Oryza sativa L.) DI KECAMATAN LALABATA KABUPATEN SOPPENG

This study aims to determine the actual and potential land suitability classes for Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and its limiting factors in Lalabata District, Soppeng Regency. The research method was survey and determination of land suitability class based on FAO approach with limiting factors and land characteristics. The land survey was conducted with reference to the land unit, consisting of data collection, map making, field observation, sampling, soil analysis and interpretation of actual and potential land suitability of rice plants. The results showed that the actual land suitability for rice cultivation is not suitable (N1) with the limiting factor of the level of erosion hazard for land units 15 and 19 and marginal suitable (S3) with the limiting factors of rooting media (drainage), available nutrients (P2O5 and K2O) and the level of erosion hazard for land unit 9. Available nutrients (P2O5 and K2O) and the level of erosion hazard for land units 1, 4 and 7. Available nutrients (P2O5 and K2O) and the level of erosion hazard for land units 2, 3, 5, 9 and 12 while potential land suitability with the limiting factor of rooting media (texture) for all land units (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15 and 19). The actual land suitability level is unsuitable (N1) no improvement efforts can be made because the land cannot be used temporarily while marginally suitable (S3) a high level of improvement efforts can be made. Potential land suitability level cannot be improved.