<![CDATA[Chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a strategically important horticultural commodity in Indonesia whose vegetative phase strongly determines subsequent productivity. Microorganism-based liquid organic fertilizers represent a sustainable alternative to synthetic inputs, yet comparative efficacy data under local conditions remain limited. This study evaluated the vegetative growth response of curly chili treated with two commercially available microorganism-based liquid organic fertilizers (Fertilizer A and Fertilizer B) at the Experimental Field of Universitas Boyolali, Central Java, Indonesia. A comparative design with five replications per treatment was employed; observations were carried out at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after transplanting (DAT). Growth parameters included plant height, number of leaves, and stem diameter. Fertilizer A consistently outperformed Fertilizer B from 14 DAT onward. At 28 DAT, Fertilizer A produced higher mean plant height (34.31cm vs. 30.88cm) and greater leaf number (24.89 vs. 22.87). Stem diameter was equivalent between treatments at 28 DAT (3.86mm). These findings suggest that Fertilizer A more effectively supports vegetative development of curly chili, likely through enhanced biological nitrogen availability and plant growth-promoting substance production. Results support use of microorganism-based organic fertilizers as a viable approach for sustainable chili cultivation in Boyolali.]]>
