General Evaluation of Agricultural Practices of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Growers: The Case of Province Siirt, Türkiye

Abstract

This study was carried out between 2018-2019 to determine the current situation of the pomegranate growers, their approach to some agricultural practices, and the problems encountered during the production and marketing phase. The study was conducted in Siirt Center, Pervari and Şirvan districts, which have significant potential in Zivzik pomegranate production in Türkiye. For this purpose, using “Proportional Sample Volume” a questionnaire consisting of 23 questions was applied to a total of 143 randomly selected farmers at 90% confidence and 5% error level. The data obtained from the pomegranate producers were subjected to statistical analysis and the averages were evaluated as %. According to the results of the study, it has been determined that 39.8% of the producers are cultivating in 0-5 decares of land, and 30.1% of them have a yield of 21- 50 kg per tree. In addition, 72.7% of the producers stated that they used farm manure and 59.5% had problems in marketing. In addition, although 50.3% of the producers pointed out that the most important harmful insect species in pomegranate orchards is aphid, 82.5% of them stated that they do not use chemical control against harmful organisms. It was found that the majority of the growers did not recognize the insects that cause yield losses, did not consult with anyone about the pest control, and did not take into account issues such as garden cleaning after harvest. On the other hand, the growers have stated that the plant protection and fertilization practices generally carried out within the scope of organic agriculture. The difficulties in pomegranate production, finding buyers at low prices for years and problems in marketing was revealed that the pomegranate producer did not live up to expectations. In conclusion, in order to increase the contribution of Zivzik pomegranate production to the economy of both the region and the country, it should be aimed to solve the problems of the producers with new supports by the relevant institutions.

Keywords

• marketing
• agricultural applications
• grower
• harmful insects
• zivzik pomegranate