Copper contribution to rice production and greenhouse gas emissions in hydrophobic peat soil

Abstract

Abstract Harnessing the potential of hydrophobic peat for rice cultivation through effective amelioration and fertilization such as the application of copper (Cu) fertilizer. A greenhouse experiment was conducted, employing a treatment of Cu fertilizer at a rate of 5 kg/ha. The objective of this study was to determine the contribution of Cu in rice production and influencing of greenhouse gas emissions. N P K fertilizers were applied as basal fertilizers according to the recommended dosage for rice crops. The research findings revealed that the application of Cu fertilizer increased the dry grain weight per tiller by 14.2%. This application also resulted in higher soil pH and increased Cu concentrations in plant tissue above critical levels. The study also showed that the Cu application contributed to the increased concentrations of CO2 and CH4, although these differences were not statistically significant when compared to treatments without Cu application. The study implies that copper (Cu) is an essential micronutrient crucial for the growth and development of rice plants, especially in hydrophobic peat soil.