Dipo Caesario, Devi P Pratama, Endah Purwaningsih, Paus Iskarni, Elisa Maiyenti, Ander A Nugroho
Volcanic eruptions produce ash that can significantly affect agricultural systems, both negatively and positively. This study investigates the spatial distribution of volcanic ash following the eruption of Mount Marapi and its effects on scallion (Allium fistulosum L.) cultivation and soil chemistry on the mountain's western slopes in West Sumatra. The research were employed spatial analysis and multivariate regression to assess the dual impact of ash deposition. In the short term, direct contact between volcanic ash and plant surfaces was found to inhibit stomatal function, induce chlorosis, and cause leaf decay, resulting in reduced crop yields. Conversely, long-term observations conducted one year after the December 2023 eruption that revealed improvements in soil fertility, particularly through increased levels of phosphorus and potassium. These findings highlight the complex nature of volcanic ash impacts, demonstrating short-term agricultural challenges but potential long-term benefits for soil nutrient enhancement. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.
Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Science, Universitas Negeri Padang, Padang City, Indonesia; Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Negeri Padang, Padang City, Indonesia; Minangkabau Meteorological Station, Meteorology Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), Padang City, Indonesia
