Growth And Productivity Responses Of Horticultural Crops To Water Application Through A Drip Irrigation System

Abstract

Water availability is one of the important factors affecting the growth and productivity of horticultural crops. Improper water management can result in water stress, reduced plant growth, and decreased crop productivity. In this study I wanted to see how [SPECIFIC CROP SPECIES/CULTIVAR] grows and produces when using a drip irrigation system to give the plants water. The research was conducted from May 4 to June 8, 2026, in Tetehosi Afia Village, North Gunungsitoli District, Gunungsitoli City, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. A quantitative descriptive approach was used, with observations focused on plant growth and crop productivity during the cultivation period. Growth parameters included plant height, number of leaves, and number of branches, while productivity was evaluated based on harvest weight and the amount of marketable produce. The results showed that the application of water through the drip irrigation system supported continuous plant growth. Average plant height increased from 18.4 cm in the first week to 51.3 cm in the fifth week, while the average number of leaves increased from 8.2 to 23.5 leaves per plant and the number of branches increased from 2.1 to 7.1 branches per plant. The total harvest reached approximately 24.60 kg from 30 productive plants, with 21.80 kg classified as marketable produce. These findings indicate that controlled water application through a drip irrigation system can support the growth and productivity of horticultural crops by providing water more directly and consistently to the root zone. Drip irrigation therefore has potential as an efficient water management technology for horticultural crop cultivation under local agricultural conditions.