Supporting Increased Rice Productivity in Cianjur with Bio-Hara Plus
IPB University, through the Homecoming Lectures (Dospulkam) program led by Prof Elis Nina Herliyana, has introduced an innovative organic fertilizer called Bio-Hara Plus. This initiative was carried out in collaboration with IPB University’s Thematic Real Work Lecture (KKN-T) students at the Bobojong Village Office, Mande District, Cianjur Regency, West Java (7/17).
Prof Elis explained that Bio-Hara Plus is a dual-function organic fertilizer innovation. It serves as both a source of plant nutrients and a botanical pesticide suitable for all types of crops.
“The advantage of Bio-Hara Plus is that it contains complete macro and micro-nutrients, along with botanical pesticides that act as pest repellents. Bio-Hara Plus is also capable of improving soil quality and accelerating the harvest period,” she stated.
She further noted that the effectiveness of Bio-Hara Plus has been tested and proven by several farmers. The results have been satisfying, showing a significant increase in rice production yields.
Alongside her team (Prof Ika Amalia Kartika, Prof Abdul Munif, and Prof Dede Hermawan), she provided training on organic fertilizer production to rice farmers in Mande District.
Moving beyond theory, the 50 participants all members of the Mucekil Farmers Group were given hands on instruction on how to create organic fertilizer using easily accessible local materials, such as organic waste and livestock manure. They learned the entire process, from mixing raw materials to the storage required for maturation. The farmers showed great enthusiasm during the practical session.
The plan is to apply Bio-Hara Plus in demonstration plots (demplot) within the Mande District using IPB 13S rice seeds—IPB University’s latest superior rice variety known for high productivity and resistance to pests and diseases.
“Through this innovation, we hope to play a role in supporting increased rice productivity and food security in Cianjur Regency based on organic farming. Thus, this can serve as a starting point for agricultural transformation in Cianjur toward a more innovative, productive, and sustainable system,” she concluded. (*/Rz) (IAAS/FMT)
