Effects of NPK Fertilizer and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on the Growth of Oil Palm (Elaeis guinensis Jacq.) Seedlings

This study aimed to investigate the effects of NPK fertilizer and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) on the growth of oil palm seedlings. The study focused on various morphological traits, including plant height, trunk diameter, frond count, dry matter weight, AMF root infection, and soil spore count. These parameters were measured in seedlings aged 14 to 54 weeks after planting (WAP). A Randomized Complete Block Design with a single factor was employed, consisting of six treatment levels and four replications. The treatments included a control group, standard NPK fertilizer, biofertilizer, and combinations of biofertilizer with varying doses of NPK fertilizer. The results showed that the P4 treatment (standard NPK + 30 g AMF biofertilizer) exhibited the best morphological traits, which significantly affected the seedlings' dry matter weight. In contrast, the P6 treatment (half standard dose of NPK + 30 g AMF biofertilizer) optimized growth while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. AMF root infections were observed in the treatments with biofertilizer. Morphological identification revealed the presence of Acaulospora, Glomus, and Gigaspora in the soil during biofertilizer treatment.