Ambon — Research conducted by Charles Silahooy from Universitas Pattimura and published in 2026 in the International Journal of Scientific Multidisciplinary Research (IJSMR) reveals that different types of animal manure have distinct effects on the growth and yield of mustard plants (Brassica juncea L.) cultivated on Ultisol soils. The findings are important for improving agricultural productivity in regions dominated by low-fertility soils.
Ultisol soils are widely found in tropical regions, including Indonesia, and are known for their high acidity, low organic matter content, and limited nutrient availability. These characteristics often limit crop productivity, especially for vegetable crops such as mustard greens. As a result, farmers face ongoing challenges in maintaining stable yields on such land.
The increasing demand for vegetables driven by population growth and rising awareness of healthy diets has intensified the need for effective and sustainable farming practices. Improving the productivity of marginal soils like Ultisol has become a priority for both farmers and policymakers seeking to strengthen food security.
In this context, Charles Silahooy from Universitas Pattimura examined the effectiveness of different types of animal manure as organic fertilizers. The study used an experimental approach by mixing soil with various types of manure in specific ratios. Plant growth was observed through indicators such as plant height, number of leaves, and fresh weight. The collected data were analyzed using statistical methods to identify significant differences among treatments.
The results show that all types of animal manure contributed to plant growth and yield, but their effects varied depending on the type of manure used. Soil mixed with cow manure produced the best results in terms of plant height and leaf number, indicating stronger vegetative growth. In contrast, soil combined with buffalo manure resulted in the highest fresh weight, which reflects better overall yield at harvest.
These differences are linked to the physical and chemical characteristics of each type of manure. Factors such as nutrient content, particle size, and the rate at which nutrients are released into the soil influence how plants respond. Organic fertilizers typically release nutrients gradually, providing a sustained supply that supports plant development over time.
Charles Silahooy of Universitas Pattimura explains that plant response is closely tied to the quality and composition of the organic fertilizer used. According to him, selecting the appropriate type of manure can help farmers improve productivity more efficiently while maintaining soil health.
The findings offer practical insights for farmers working on marginal lands. By choosing the right type of manure, farmers can tailor their cultivation strategies to achieve specific goals, whether improving early plant growth or maximizing harvest yields. This approach also supports environmentally friendly agriculture by reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Beyond farm-level benefits, the study has broader implications for sustainable agriculture policies. Utilizing livestock waste as organic fertilizer promotes resource efficiency and reduces environmental pollution. It also aligns with efforts to develop circular agricultural systems that integrate crop and livestock production.
In the education sector, the research provides valuable material for teaching soil management and sustainable farming practices. For agribusiness, the findings open opportunities to develop improved organic fertilizer products based on specific crop needs and soil conditions.
The study highlights that simple, locally available resources such as animal manure can play a significant role in improving agricultural productivity. With proper management and selection, even less fertile soils like Ultisol can be optimized to support food production.
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