<![CDATA[Increasing the efficiency of forage production requires the utilization of locally available resources to reduce dependence on inorganic fertilizers without compromising crop productivity and nutrient quality. Biogas sludge contains organic matter and nutrients, making it a potential soil conditioner and partial substitute for chemical fertilizers. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Sludge Biogas Media (SBM) as a partial substitute for commercial fertilizer on biomass production and nutrient quality of corn forage (Zea mays). The study employed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of four treatment combinations of SBM–soil composition and chemical fertilizer substitution levels (P0: control soil without SBM + 100% fertilizer; P1: SBM:soil 1:1 + 70% fertilizer; P2: SBM:soil 1:2 + 50% fertilizer; P3: SBM:soil 1:3 + 25% fertilizer) with five replications. Observed parameters included fresh biomass weight, dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and crude protein (CP). Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Duncan's Multiple Range Test (p < 0.05). The results showed that SBM treatment significantly affected (P < 0.05) fresh biomass and DM percentage, but had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on OM and CP contents. Treatment P2 produced the highest fresh biomass (1,095.00 g/plant) and DM content (25.48%). Meanwhile, OM (87.30%–87.40%) and CP (9.40%–9.58%) remained stable across all treatments. In conclusion, the P2 formulation (SBM:soil = 1:2 with 50% inorganic fertilizer) is the optimum treatment to enhance biomass yield and dry matter while reducing chemical fertilizer inputs by 50% without compromising forage nutrient quality.]]>
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