Characteristics of Physical and Chemical Properties in Andisol Soil Processing Affected by Volcanic Ash and Non-Volcanic Ash Sinabung In Karo Regency

Abstract

This study aims to examine and compare the physical and chemical properties of soil on andisol soil cultivation between those affected by non-volcanic ash from Mount Sinabung. This research was carried out in Karo Regency, which was divided into 2 zones, namely the Volcanic Ash-affected zone at the foot of Mount Sinabung, Naman Teran District and Merdeka District after 7 years of being affected by the eruption of Mount Sinabung, while the zone was not affected by Volcanic Ash in Tigapanah District which was carried out from the month of January 2021 to April 2021. Research samples were taken from 3 different locations: (i) control andisol soil area without volcanic ash; (ii) andisol soil area with volcanic ash without tillage; (iii) andisol soil area with volcanic ash by tillage, with a total sample of 15 and the category of volcanic ash used with a medium thickness (2-5 cm). The results showed that the physical properties (bulk density and texture) of the soil changed for the better, while the chemical properties parameters consisting of pH, c-organic, p-available and ktk, the soil changed from good to moderate.