Identification of Soil Physical Properties and Their Implications for the Management of Productive Oil Palm Plantations in Marbau District, North Sumatra
Keywords:
Soil Physical Properties; Mature Oil Palm; Bulk Density; Porosity; Soil Texture; Marbau DistrictAbstract
The degradation of soil physical properties represents a hidden threat to the sustainable productivity of smallholder oil palm plantations. This study aims to identify the condition of soil physical properties and analyze their implications for the management of mature (TM) oil palm plantations in Marbau District. A survey method was applied using a purposive random sampling design across five farmer blocks. Soil samples were taken at depths of 0-20 cm, 20-40 cm, and 40-60 cm for analysis of texture, bulk density, total porosity, available water content, and aggregate stability. Results indicate the soil is dominated by silty clay texture (silt 42.3%, clay 38.1%, sand 19.6%). The average bulk density of 1.42 g cm?³ is classified as high (compacted) and increases with depth. The average total porosity of 46.3% falls into the low-medium category. The average available water content of 11.1% by volume is classified as low, while aggregate stability is in the medium category (Index 0.42). Statistical analysis revealed 100% of samples experienced compaction (bulk density >1.3 g cm?³) and 76% of samples had marginal available water content (10-20% vol). The study concludes that soil compaction is a central problem causing degradation of porosity and water storage capacity, creating a sub-optimal root environment for oil palms. The main recommendations are the implementation of integrated organic matter management and regulation of field traffic as essential strategies for improving soil physical properties.
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