Farmers’ challenges on chili farming in the acid dry land : A case study from Pasir Madang-Bogor Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

Chili has become a high-value economic commodity in Indonesia. Indonesian chili consumption is increasing every year. In order to fulfill the demand, chili commonly is planted on fertile land. Meanwhile, Indonesia has a vast less fertile land, such as the acid dry land that has not been utilized for a long time. This land can be utilized to plant chili. However, there are many challenges to be faced that need to be solved. The study aims to identify farmers' challenges on chili farming an acid dry land, viewed from social-economic aspects, natural conditions, biology, and land. The study was conducted from April to October 2016 in Pasir Madang, Sukajaya sub-district, Bogor, Indonesia. About 49 chili farmers were involved in the study. Data were analyzed descriptively. The results of the study showed that the farmers planted chili because it was profitable. Area for planting chili commonly less fertile/infertile. To solve the problem, farmers used manure and chemical fertilizers. Meanwhile, challenges faced by the chili farmers were pest and disease attacks. Other obstacles were capital, farmers' knowledge on chili cultivation, and choosing effective and efficient fungicides and insecticides to control the chili pests and diseases.