Role of Bioameliorant Composition in Enhancing Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Maize–Soybean Intercropping Systems on Suboptimal Land

Abstract

Maize–soybean intercropping combined with bioameliorant application offers a promising strategy to enhance nutrient uptake and crop productivity on suboptimal land while improving land-use efficiency and reducing dependence on imported soybean.This study aimed to evaluate the role of different bioameliorant compositions in enhancing soil nutrient status, nutrient uptake (nitrogen and phosphorus), and yield in a maize–soybean intercropping system on suboptimal land. The experiment was conducted in 2025 in North Lombok, Indonesia, using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five treatments and three replications. The experimental soil was classified as suboptimal land, characterized by very low total nitrogen (0.01%) and low soil organic matter content (1.21%), confirming poor soil quality. The results showed that the F4 treatment (25% compost, 25% manure, 25% rice husk biochar, and 25% mycorrhizal biofertilizer) significantly increased soil nitrogen and phosphorus availability, enhanced nutrient uptake, and improved yield. Maize grain yield and soybean seed yield were significantly higher under F4 compared to the control. These improvements were associated with increased mycorrhizal activity, as indicated by higher spore density and root colonization. Overall, the findings demonstrate that a balanced bioameliorant composition is effective in improving nutrient dynamics and crop productivity in maize–soybean intercropping systems on suboptimal land.