SAINS TANAH - Journal of Soil Science and Agroclimatology
Vol. 23 No. 1 (2026): June

Optimizing Entisols properties and enhancing melon (Cucumis melo L.) yields using biofilm biofertilizer, organic matter, and NPK fertilization

Sudadi Sudadi (Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta)
Ongko Cahyono (Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta)
Purwanto Purwanto (Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta)
Retno Rosariastuti (Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta)
Hadiwiyono Hadiwiyono (Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta)
Azizah Anggun Febriana (Undergraduate Program of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta)
Oca Higiawati (Undergraduate Program of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta)
Adhia Azhar Fauzan (The United Graduate School of Agriculture Science, Gifu University)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Entisols have significant agricultural potential but also limitation by a high sand fraction and unstable soil aggregates, leading to low nutrient levels and poor water-holding capacity. This study aims to determine the optimal combination of biofilm biofertilizer, organic matter, and NPK fertilizer to improve it soil properties and enhance melon yields (Cucumis melo L.). A completely randomized block design was employed, consisting of three treatment factors: biofilm biofertilizer (BiO2) formulation (without BiO2, formula 1, and formula 2), organic matter dosages (0, 1.25, and 2.5 kg plant-1), and NPK dosages (0%, 50%, and 100% of the recommended dosage). The variables observed included soil properties (bulk density, aggregate stability, soil organic carbon (SOC), and available phosphorus), melon growth and yield. Data was analyzed using ANOVA at a 95% confidence level, followed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) if any significant effects. The results showed that the interaction among BiO2, organic matter, and NPK significantly affected soil properties, enabling a reduction in NPK applications by up to 50% when combined with BiO2 and organic matter. The application of 2.5 kg plant-1 of organic matteroutperformed 1.25 kg plant-1 in improving bulk density, aggregate stability, available-P, P-uptake, plant dry weight, and melon yields; however, significant differences between these doses were observed only for available P and P uptake. This study can serve as a reference for determining fertilizer dosages to increase melon yields while improving the soil properties of Entisols and expanding their agricultural use.

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