Substitution of topsoil with marginal soils as medium for seed germination during nursery stage

This study intends to assess the potential of marginal soils specifically the peat soils, acid sulfate soils and sandy soils to become a medium for seed germination during nursery stage. In this study, the soil chemical characteristics were determined, and the growth performance of seedlings planted on the marginal soils were evaluated. The soil samples were collected at different locations in Melaka, Malaysia. The collected soil samples (peat soils, acid sulfate soils, and sandy soils) were filled into polybags and arranged using completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications for each treatment, and clay loam soils used as a control. Two Hevea brasiliensis seeds which act as a test crop were placed in each polybag and the standard nursery practice for Hevea brasiliensis seedlings was applied throughout the experimental period. A destructive sampling was conducted biweekly for 8 weeks and the samples were then analyzed for selected soil chemical properties. The results showed that acid sulfate soils release higher concentrations of phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg) with positive growth of Hevea brasiliensis seedlings throughout the experimental weeks compared to other soil types. However, a positive result on nutrient concentration aided with the recommended fertilizer program were displayed in all problematic soils medium. As such, the potential of problematic soils as a medium of seed germination may be tested for other crops including the ornamental plants as it is optimist that the substitution of topsoil with marginal soils during germination stage will incur lower cost with equal seedlings growth.