The Relationship Between Soil Conservation Techniques, Topsoil Depth, and Density of Vegetation Growing and Soil Organic C Content in Palm Oil (Elaeis guineensis Jacq) Plant Areas at Plantation IV Regional II Pabatu North Sumatra Province, Indonesia
Abstract
Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) is a strategic plantation commodity that plays an important role in the Indonesian economy, contributing significantly to vegetable oil production and foreign exchange earnings. This study aims to identify soil conservation techniques and analyze the relationships among topsoil depth, weed vegetation density, and soil organic carbon content in coconut oil palm plantations at PT Perkebunan Nusantara IV Regional II Pabatu, North Sumatra Province. The research was conducted from April to May 2026 using a descriptive method with a field survey approach. Samples were collected through purposive sampling based on different soil conservation techniques applied in each observation plot. Data were gathered through field observations, measurements of topsoil depth, weed vegetation assessments, and laboratory analysis of soil organic carbon content. Vegetation analysis employed parameters such as density, frequency, Importance Value Index (IVI), and Summed Dominance Ratio (SDR). The study identified five weed species classified as broadleaf, grassy, and nutsedge weeds, with Ageratum conyzoides being the dominant species based on the highest IVI value. Topsoil depth ranged from 23 to 35 cm, averaging 28 cm, while soil organic carbon content varied between 1.08% and 3.07%. The significance of this study lies in its integrated examination of soil conservation aspects, vegetation, and soil chemical properties in coconut oil palm plantations. The findings can serve as a foundation for sustainable land management practices to maintain soil fertility and reduce erosion risks in coconut oil palm plantations.
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