Improving the Survival of Medicinal Plants in Dry Landscapes

Posted on 2026-01-23

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Image source: BKSDA NTB

Bidara Laut (Strychnos lucida R.Br.) is a valuable medicinal plant from West Nusa Tenggara, traditionally used to treat malaria, diabetes, and hypertension. However, its cultivation is challenging under dry and hot conditions such as those found in the Mount Tunak Natural Tourism Park (TWA), an area characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures.

Setyayudi et al. (2023) investigated the effects of soil amendments, including hydrogel, mycorrhizae, plastic mulch, and their combinations, on early growth and survival. The research involved 750 seedlings, which were planted over 19 months to measure the outcomes.

Key Findings After 19 Months
Although the improvements were not statistically significant, these treatments showed better results than the control (no treatment).

  • The survival rate increased by up to 25% compared to the average.
  • Height growth improved by 85% compared to the average.
  • Diameter growth improved by 25% compared to the average.
  • The combination treatment demonstrated the best overall performance, with a survival rate reaching 40%.

These findings highlight the role of soil management strategies in supporting the restoration and sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants in marginal environments. Environmental factors, particularly low rainfall during the dry season, significantly impacted plant mortality rates.