Anatomi Daun dan Hubungannya terhadap Pertumbuhan Calathea sp. pada Berbagai Jenis Pupuk

The Anatomy of Leaves and Its Relationship to the Growth of Calathea sp. with Various Types of Fertilizers

Abstract

Due to their diverse leaf patterns and colors, calathea plants have economic potential as foliage ornamental species. Research about cultivation techniques is more important for obtaining high-quality plants and efficient cultivation methods. This research aims to characterize leaf anatomy and obtain plant growth responses to various fertilizer applications. This research was carried out from January to April 2023 in Sukamantri Village, Tamansari District, Bogor Regency, the research employed a two-factor Randomized Completed Block Design (RCBD). The fertilizer type factor comprised four levels: without fertilization (P0), chicken manure (P1), slow-release fertilizer (P2), and foliar fertilizer (P3). In addition, the calathea type factor encompassed Calathea picturata var. Vandenheckei (S1) and Calathea ornata var. Beauty Star (S2). The application of various types of fertilizers does not affect all observed variables. Cultivating calathea plants without using fertilizers is an efficient method. Calathea picturata var. Vandenheckei has a higher shoot growth rate, plant height, and stomatal density compared to Calathea ornata var Beauty Star. There is no correlation between leaf anatomy and calathea growth rate due to the application of various types of fertilizers.

Keywords: flower, ornamental plant, shoot, trichome