<![CDATA[This study aims to evaluate fertilization practices to support the sustainability of smallholder oil palm plantations in Bengkayang Regency. The study employed a quantitative descriptive approach, collecting data through a Google Form-based questionnaire and interviews with 40 smallholder oil palm Farmers. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel through tabulation, coding, and percentage analysis, then presented descriptively in tables and narrative form. Fertilization practices were evaluated based on fertilizer type, fertilizer dosage, application frequency, fertilizer timing, farmer perceptions, fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production, fertilizer constraints, information sources, and their implications for the sustainability of smallholder oil palm plantations. The results indicate that fertilization practices on smallholder oil palm plantations in Bengkayang Regency are regularly implemented by the majority of farmers. 52,5% of respondents fertilize more than twice per year, with an average fertilizer dosage of 1,073,75 kg/ha/year. However, the dosage, frequency, and timing of fertilizer applications still show variation among Farmers. The main obstacles faced by farmers include high fertilizer prices, inaccurate dosage and application timing, limited capital, unpredictable weather, and limited access to fertilizer. Fertilization information is still predominantly sourced from fellow farmers (37.55%), while assistance from extension workers is Limited. Based on an evaluation of fertilization practices, fertilization practices on smallholder oil palm plantations in Bengkayang Regency are generally quite supportive of sustainability, but not yet fully optimal due to the influence of technical, economic, and access to information factors. This study emphasizes the importance of strengthening extension services, providing more affordable fertilizer access, and implementing crop-based fertilization to increase the productivity and sustainability of smallholder oil palm plantations.]]>
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