Growth and Yield of Melon at Various Concentrations and Applications KNO3 with Drip Hydroponic System

Abstract

Increasing melon production can pursued hydroponic cultivation with drip irrigation system and potassium nitrate
(KNO3) fertilizer to improve the growth and quality melon. This research aimed to investigate the effects of varying
concentrations and applications of KNO3 on the growth and yield of melons within a hydroponic system. The study
was conducted in a screen house in Pasir Kulon Village, Karanglewas District, Banyumas Regency, and at the
Laboratory of Agronomy and Horticulture at Jenderal Soedirman University. A Randomized Complete Block Design
(RCBD) was utilized, incorporating two factors: the concentration of KNO3 and the application of KNO3. The
research data were analyzed using an F-test, followed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at a 5%
significance level. Results indicated that a KNO3 concentration of 6 g/L provided the best growth and yield in the
variables of fresh weight per plant (y = 13.895x + 492.03), dry weight per plant (y = 1.93x + 47.843), fruit weight per
plant (y = 0.035x + 0.9783), and fruit sweetness (y = 0.5167x + 13.57). The application of KNO3 provided the best
growth and yield in the variables of fresh weight per plant (y = 126.92x + 343.33), dry weight per plant (y = 11.85x +
35.86), and fruit sweetness (y = 0.23x + 14.77). The combination of KNO3 fertilizer at a concentration of 6 g/L, used
with the pouring method, was the most effective for increasing both fruit sweetness (y = 1,875x + 11,483).