EVALUASI KESESUAIAN LAHAN DAN STRATEGI PENGELOLAAN JAGUNG (Zea mays L.) MENUJU KETAHANAN PANGAN DI SLOGOHIMO, WONOGIRI

Abstract

Land suitability evaluation is essential for optimizing maize (Zea mays L.) cultivation in dryland agricultural areas. This study aimed to evaluate the actual and potential land suitability classes for maize cultivation in Slogohimo District, Central Java, and to formulate appropriate land management strategies. The research employed a descriptive-explorative method using the Land Mapping Unit (LMU) approach combined with field observations. LMUs were delineated through integration of soil type and slope class maps, followed by suitability evaluation using the matching method. The results showed that actual land suitability varied across the study area, and no land was classified as Highly Suitable (S1). Potential land suitability in LMU 1, 3, and 4 was classified as Marginally Suitable (S3) with limiting factors including water availability (wa), nutrient retention (nr), and erosion hazard (eh). Meanwhile, LMU 1 and 5 were classified as Not Suitable (N) due to steep slopes (>25%) and shallow soil depth. Improvement scenarios involving organic matter application, liming, and soil conservation practices increased the potential suitability of LMU 3 and 4 to Moderately Suitable (S2). These findings provide important information for sustainable land management for maize cultivation in Slogohimo District.