Exploration of Azolla LOF Effectiveness and Cultivars on Land Equivalence Ratio of Maize and Soybean in Intercropping System

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Azolla LOF concentration and cultivar selection on the Land Equivalency Ratio (LEC) of corn and soybean in intercropping system. The research was conducted at an altitude of 50 m above sea level with climate type C. The experimental design used a non-factorial Randomized Group Design with six soybean cultivar treatments and five Azolla LOF concentration treatments. Planting was done on a 1.5 m x 3 m field with a certain spacing. Data analysis used the method of variance and Scott-Knott further test.

The results showed that Azolla LOF concentration and cultivar had a significant effect on the growth and yield of soybean plants in intercropping system. Plant height, number of leaves, and seed weight per plant were affected by the treatment combination. Treatment with Anjasmoro cultivar and LOF Azolla concentration of 400 ml/l gave the highest yield. Analysis of Land Equivalency Ratio (LER) showed variation between treatments, with P21 + Anjasmoro showing the highest LER for soybean and intercropping. This indicates the superiority of the treatment in increasing soybean and intercropping crop production compared to corn.