AGRICOLA

Harvest and Post-Harvest Handling by Soaking Using Local Microorganisms (MOL) of Pepper for White Pepper Qualitu

2026-10-06T14:42:44+09:00

Pepper (Pipper nigrum L.) is a spice crop with high economic value and serves as an export commodity that generates foreign exchange. This study aims to examine the effect of pepper MOL as a fermentation solution ingredient in soaking white pepper (Piperis albi fructus). The study was conducted from September to November 2025 in Namang Village, Central Bangka, Bangka Belitung Islands, where the white pepper harvest and post-harvest processes are carried out. Subsequent research was conducted from December 2025 to May 2026 at the Payakumbuh State Agricultural Polytechnic to analyze observational parameters through laboratory testing to obtain research data. This study used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) experimental method with one treatment factor. The treatment was the administration of Local Microorganisms (Local Microorganisms) of pepper. The treatment consists of 4 levels of treatment, namely: P0 = 2% citric acid control treatment, P1 = Local Microorganisms (MOL) pepper 50ml/7L water, P2 = Local Microorganisms (MOL) pepper 60ml/7L water, P3 = Local Microorganisms (MOL) pepper 70ml/7L water. Quantitative data from this study were analyzed using the f test (ANOVA), the real effect of the ANOVA test results will be continued with a further test of Significant Difference (DMRT) at the 5% level. The best fermentation solution on the quality of white pepper produced was at the level of 70 ml MOL pepper + 7L water by obtaining the lowest results in the parameters of foreign matter content, light seed content and water content.

Agroforestry Systems and Coffee Post-Harvest Handling as a Strategy for Sustainable Coffee Development in Sajang Village, East Lombok Regency

2026-10-06T14:55:57+09:00

Coffee is a strategic plantation commodity with high economic value and the potential to support sustainable agricultural development. Sajang Village, East Lombok Regency, is one of the centers of smallholder coffee production that implements an agroforestry system and various post-harvest handling innovations. This study aims to examine the agroforestry system, coffee variety diversity, cultivation techniques, and post-harvest handling practices as a strategy for sustainable coffee development in Sajang Village. The study used a qualitative descriptive approach with a case study method. Data were collected through field observations, semi-structured interviews with farmer group leaders and coffee farmers, and documentation studies. Data were analyzed descriptively through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions using source and method triangulation techniques. The results show that coffee cultivation in Sajang Village implements a multi-strata agroforestry system with shade crops and intercrops such as banana, durian, vanilla, and cloves, which contributes to increasing agroecosystem stability and diversifying farmers' incomes. The coffee plantation boasts high genetic diversity, with three main coffee varieties: Arabica, Robusta, and Excelsa, as well as four local Robusta varieties: Unggul Sari, Malang Sari, Tugu Sari, and Kantim. Plant maintenance is carried out organically through an integrated coffee-livestock business that supports sustainable nutrient cycling. Post-harvest handling includes selective picking of ripe red fruit, processing using natural, honey, semi-wash, full wash, and carbonic methods, drying to 12% moisture content, storage using hermetic plastic and burlap sacks, and roasting using a roasting machine. An agroforestry cultivation system integrated with post-harvest technology has the potential to improve the quality, added value, and sustainability of smallholder coffee businesses in Sajang Village

The Socio-Economic Conditions of Farmers Participating in the Community Rice Field Development Program in Tanah Miring District, Merauke Regency

2026-10-06T15:07:53+09:00

The People's Rice Field Development (CSR) program in Merauke Regency, implemented in Tanah Miring District, is expected to meet national food demands—which are rising alongside population growth and consumption—while simultaneously improving the socio-economic conditions of beneficiary farmers from the Food Brigade (FB) groups. This study aims to assess the local economic and social conditions of BP farmers across eight villages in Tanah Miring District. A descriptive qualitative research approach was employed. Data collection involved questionnaires and in-depth interviews with 45 respondents selected via purposive sampling, and the data were analyzed using qualitative descriptive techniques. The findings indicate that population density in the study area ranges from 2.58 to 120.86 people/km², signifying a high availability of land resources for agriculture. Most respondents work primarily as rice farmers, with household consumption expenditures generally ranging from IDR 1 million to IDR 5 million per month. Regarding the CSR program, 88% (43 respondents) expressed approval, while 12% (2 respondents) expressed disapproval. To optimize the CSR program and generate greater, sustainable socio-economic impacts—particularly for rural millennial farmers—the existing population density must be supported by adequate technology, and the BP institutional governance system requires improvement

Socio-Economic Conditions and Technical Capability for Coffee Agroforestry-Based Ecotourism: A SWOT-IFAS/EFAS Analysis in Pattapang, South Sulawesi

2026-10-09T16:35:24+09:00

Community-based ecotourism integrated with coffee agroforestry has emerged as a strategic approach to rural development in Indonesia, yet its success depends heavily on the socio-economic conditions and technical capabilities of the managing community. This study aimed to analyze the socio-economic conditions and technical capabilities of the local community that influence their ability to manage coffee agroforestry-based ecotourism in Kelurahan Pattapang, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, a buffer zone of the Malino Nature Tourism Park and a Limited Production Forest. A mixed-methods case study design was employed, combining a quantitative SWOT/IFAS-EFAS survey of 25 respondents with qualitative in-depth interviews and field observation. Internal and external factors were scored using a five-point Likert scale, weighted, and rated to construct the Internal Factor Analysis Summary (IFAS) and External Factor Analysis Summary (EFAS) matrices, from which a SWOT quadrant position and a TOWS strategy matrix were derived. Results showed that the community's total Strengths score (3.2605) exceeded its Weaknesses score (2.0713), while total Opportunities (3.2397) exceeded Threats (1.9262), yielding quadrant coordinates of (+1.1892, +1.3134) that placed the community firmly in Quadrant I (Aggressive/SO Strategy). The strongest internal factor was social forestry group support (score 0.7622), while the weakest was tour-guiding capability (0.2308); externally, new employment opportunities (0.7448) were the strongest driver, while competition from more established nearby destinations (0.1870) was the most serious threat. Composite priority scoring of 13 TOWS strategies identified institutional optimization of social forestry groups and development of agroforestry-based educational tourism packages as the two flagship strategies. These findings indicate that the community possesses a robust asset base for aggressive ecotourism development, provided that institutional and product-based strategies are prioritized over purely defensive measures.

Quality Control of Moisture Content in Black Tea Products Using a Statistical Process Control Approach

2026-10-18T19:11:28+09:00

Moisture content is one of the key indicators in determining the quality, safety, and shelf life of black tea. Excessive moisture content can increase the risk of microorganism growth—particularly mold—which leads to a decline in product quality and shelf life. Conversely, moisture content that is too low due to excessive drying can cause the product to lose weight, thereby reducing production efficiency. This study was conducted to evaluate the stability of the black tea drying process and to identify the sources of moisture content variation using a Statistical Process Control (SPC) approach. The SPC tools used included Check Sheets, Histograms, Variable Control Charts, and Cause-and-Effect Diagrams (Fishbone Diagrams). Control chart analysis was used to assess whether the observed variations remained within statistical control limits or were caused by specific factors requiring corrective action. Furthermore, the Fishbone Diagram was used to trace the root causes of problems originating from labor, equipment, work methods, and environmental conditions. The findings of this study are expected to serve as a basis for factory management in formulating corrective measures to maintain the quality of black tea in accordance with applicable standards.

Keywords: Black Tea, Moisture Content, Statistical Process Control, Control Chart, Pareto Chart.

The Role of Sustainable Agroecosystems as a Source of Raw Materials for Smart Biopackaging: A Systematic Literature Review

2026-10-18T18:56:12+09:00

The single use plastic pollution crisis and the abundance of unprocessed agricultural waste are major environmental challenges today. This study aimed to utilize the potential of agro-ecosystem waste as a renewable biomass source, disseminate technological modification strategies to improve packaging characteristics, and map their impact on sustainable food systems. Through systematic literature observation, a descriptive qualitative approach examined the role of sustainable agro-ecosystems as strategic raw material providers in the development of smart biopackaging. The results showed that the integration of active functions (antimicrobials and antioxidants) and smart functions (freshness indicators based on color changes due to pH) can extend the shelf life of food products while reducing food loss and waste. Despite its significant potential to accelerate the transition to a bio-based circular economy, the implementation of smart biopackaging on an industrial scale still faces technical challenges, such as unstable raw material quality, weak mechanical and barrier properties, and low stability of natural active compounds. Therefore, future studies should focus on standardizing testing methods

Factors Influencing Purchasing Decisions for UD Marroan's Crispy Peanuts, Siwaluompu Village, Tarutung District, North Tapanuli Regency

2026-10-15T10:51:57+09:00

Crispy peanuts are a type of processed food product characterized by diverse consumer preferences. UD Marroan was purposively selected as the research site because its crispy peanuts possess a crunchy texture and distinctive characteristics that set them apart from similar products on the market. This study aims to examine the factors influencing consumer purchasing decisions regarding UD Marroan's crispy peanuts. A survey method was employed, utilizing purposive sampling for both site selection and respondent recruitment. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the effects of price, income, taste, brand, packaging, location, product quality, and promotion on consumer purchasing decisions. The analysis revealed that price has a significant, inverse (negative) effect on purchasing decisions, meaning that a price increase tends to lower the probability of a purchase. Conversely, income has a significant, positive effect, indicating that an increase in consumer income correlates with a higher probability of purchase. Meanwhile, the variables of taste, brand, packaging, location, product quality, and promotion did not have a significant impact on purchasing decisions. The study confirms that price and income are the two primary factors significantly influencing consumer decisions to purchase crispy peanuts from UD Marroan.

Analysis of the extension program design for utilizing arabica coffee husk waste as compost in Siempat Rube District, Pakpak Bharat Regency

2026-10-13T12:28:00+09:00

Arabica coffee husk waste in Siempat Rube District, Pakpak Bharat Regency, has generally not been processed into compost using proper composting procedures. This study aimed to identify regional potential and farmers’ problems, describe the extension program design, assess farmers’ acceptance of its components, and describe farmers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding the utilization of Arabica coffee husk waste as compost. The study was conducted from March to May 2026 using a descriptive quantitative approach. Regional Potential Identification (IPW) used field observation and interviews with agricultural extension workers and coffee farmers, followed by preparation and implementation of the extension program. A total of 57 farmers from six farmer groups participated. Data were analyzed descriptively using acceptance scores, pre-test and post-test knowledge scores, and a Likert scale for attitudes. Overall acceptance of the extension design was 86.97%. Knowledge score attainment increased from 42.10% before the extension to 80.00% afterward, a difference of 37.90 percentage points. The post-extension attitude score was 82.69%, categorized as agree. These findings describe farmers’ acceptance and responses after the activity; actual adoption and long-term effects were not assessed.

Fermentation of citronella solid waste with cow manure to produce quality organic fertilizer for sustainable plant health

2026-10-13T12:26:24+09:00

The utilization of agricultural waste as organic fertilizer is an important strategy for improving soil health and supporting sustainable plant protection systems. Citronella distillation residue (Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendle) is a by-product of the essential oil extraction process that may pose environmental problems if not properly managed. This study aimed to evaluate changes in the physicochemical characteristics and nutrient content of citronella distillation residues during fermentation with different proportions of cow manure and to identify the most suitable formulation for producing high-quality organic fertilizer. The experiment was conducted from July to September 2025 in a screen house and the Soil Chemistry and Plant Nutrition Laboratory. Fermentation was performed using four ratios of citronella distillation residues to cow manure (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4), supplemented with rice bran, palm sugar, water, and EM4 as fermentation activators. The evaluated parameters included organic carbon (C-organic), C/N ratio, pH, moisture content, total nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P₂O₅), and potassium (K₂O). Data were analyzed using a descriptive comparative approach by comparing the physicochemical characteristics before and after fermentation. The results demonstrated that fermentation reduced organic carbon content and the C/N ratio while increasing the concentrations of N, P₂O₅, and K₂O, as well as pH and moisture content. The 1:4 ratio of citronella distillation residues to cow manure produced the best-quality organic fertilizer, as indicated by the lowest C/N ratio and the highest N, P₂O₅, and K₂O contents among all treatments. These findings demonstrate that fermentation effectively converts citronella distillation residues into a more stable and nutrient-rich organic fertilizer, highlighting its potential as an environmentally friendly alternative for agricultural waste utilization and organic fertilizer production.

Financial Dynamics of Timber Harvesting on Community Forests: Implications for Farmers’ Income and Agroforestry Sustainability in South Sulawesi

2026-10-15T23:34:56+09:00

Harvesting cost is a critical component of community forest management as it directly influences the income and net profits of forest farmers. However, comprehensive long-term studies tracking these costs remain limited because historical data is fragmented and lacks systematic documentation. This study aims to identify the long-term trends of timber harvesting costs over a 15-year period (2008–2022) and analyze the factors driving these cost dynamics in community forests of South Sulawesi. The methodology employs a meta-analysis approach synthesizing 12 previous studies (generating 22 harvesting cost data points) gathered from scientific databases and academic libraries, coupled with empirical field validation through structured interviews with forest farmers in Maros and Gowa Districts. Cost ranges were classified using Sturges' Rule. The results reveal that timber harvesting costs in South Sulawesi experienced a fluctuating upward trend during 2008–2022. The early phase (2008–2011) was characterized by relatively low costs due to manual, small-scale operations utilizing simple hand tools. The mid-phase (2012–2017) saw steady cost increases driven by rising labor wages and fuel prices. The late phase (2018–2022) exhibited high cost volatility, significantly exacerbated by COVID-19 pandemic logistical constraints and the national fuel price hike in 2022. According to Sturges' classification, the majority of historical costs fall within the low-to-medium class of IDR 416,368 – IDR 613,776 m⁻³. Field validation confirmed significant species-specific variations: Teak (IDR 969,316.84 m⁻³), Acacia (IDR 963,710.94 m⁻³), Red Jabon (IDR 922,365.22 m⁻³), Candlenut (IDR 465,054.85 m⁻³), and Mango (IDR 369,115.19 m⁻³). Tree physical properties (wood hardness and diameter), felling site topography, road accessibility, and harvesting methods (manual vs. semi-mechanized) were identified as key determinant factors. This study concludes that the financial dynamics of timber harvesting are determined by the complex interplay between biophysical site factors and macroeconomic conditions.

Analysis of Income and Production Factors on Potato Farming Income in Hinalang Village, Purba District, Simalungun Regency, North Sumatra Province

2026-10-15T23:30:23+09:00

This study aims to determine (1) the amount of revenue, production costs and income of potato farming in the research area, (2) analyze the feasibility level of potato farming carried out in the research area, (3) analyze production factors (land area, labor, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and selling prices) on potato farming income in the research area. The research method uses the simple random sampling technique. The influence of production factors on potato farming income was analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis. Farming feasibility was analyzed using the R/C (revenue-cost) ratio. The results of the study showed that potato farming earned an income of Rp. 1,628,750,000, production costs incurred by farmers were Rp. 868,344,071.4 and the net income of potato farming was Rp. 760,405,928.6. The feasibility analysis indicates that potato farming is feasible, with an R/C value of 1.87, suggesting that it is both feasible and profitable to operate in Hinalang Village, Purba District, Simalungun Regency. The influence of production factors, such as land area, labor, seeds, fertilizer, pesticides, and selling price, significantly affects potato income. Simultaneously, independent variables have a significant influence on income. The variables of land area, labor, seeds, fertilizer, pesticides, and selling price significantly influence income.

Analysis of Surface and Subsurface Soil Carbon Stocks in Natural Ecosystems within the Tuntang Sub-watershed

2026-10-15T21:53:36+09:00

Natural ecosystems play a role in carbon absorption and storage. Forests, grasslands, and shrubs are examples of natural ecosystems. These three ecosystems have differences, especially in absorbing and storing carbon. The purpose of this study was to determine carbon storage above ground (vegetation and necromass) and in the soil in natural ecosystems (forests, shrubs, and grasslands) and to provide recommendations for non-agricultural plants that can be applied to agroecosystems that have high carbon absorption in the Tuntang Sub-watershed. This research is exploratory research. This study uses quantitative data with primary data analysis of site conditions, soil carbon, and plant biomass calculations. The results show that the largest aboveground carbon storage is in forest ecosystem 1, namely 0.718 kg/m2, while the smallest is 0 kg/m2 found in the shrub ecosystem. Meanwhile, the largest understory carbon storage is in forest ecosystem 2, amounting to 1.683 kg/m2, while the smallest is in the shrub ecosystem, namely 0.306 kg/m2. For the largest necromass carbon storage in forest ecosystem 1, namely 0.630 kg/m2 and the smallest in grassland and shrub ecosystem 1, namely 0 kg/m2. The highest soil carbon (C-organic) was found in the natural forest ecosystem, namely 9.8% and the lowest was found in the grassland ecosystem, namely 6.99%. Suitable recommendations for garden, rice field, and dryland agroecosystems are mostly lamtoro because it is able to absorb and store carbon, ideal shade, can prevent erosion, and can be a green fertilizer for less fertile soil.

Factors Influencing Community Participation in Waste Bank Management at the Sait Buttu Coffee Educational Tour, Pematang Sidamanik District, Simalungun Regency

2026-10-17T17:41:24+09:00

Community participation in waste bank management is important considering the increasing volume of household waste, low public awareness in sorting waste, limited land for final disposal, and the need for a more effective and sustainable waste management system at the village level. Waste banks are one solution that encourages waste reduction at the source through sorting, weighing, selling, and recycling activities. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence community participation in waste bank management in Sait Buttu Village, Pematang Sidamanik District, Simalungun Regency. This study aims to analyze the factors influencing community participation in waste bank management in Sait Buttu Village, Pematang Sidamanik District, Simalungun Regency. The research employed a survey method with a quantitative approach involving 100 respondents selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected from questionnaires and secondary sources, and analyzed using descriptive analysis and multiple linear regression with the assistance of SPSS. The results show that, simultaneously, labor, interest and motivation, economic factors, institutional roles, knowledge, and facilities and infrastructure influence community participation. Partially, interest and motivation as well as knowledge have a positive and significant effect, while labor, economic factors, institutional roles, and facilities and infrastructure do not have a significant effect on community participation in waste bank management.

Socio-economic conditions and welfare levels of households managing sago

2026-10-18T23:25:45+09:00

This study aims to examine the socio-economic conditions and welfare levels of sago processors in Tambat Village, Tanah Miring District. Tambat Village was purposively selected as the study site because it is a hub for sago processing in Merauke Regency. The total population consisted of 35 sago processors; a census method was employed, resulting in a sample of 35 respondents. The analysis focused on the social, economic, and welfare factors of the sago processors. Regarding social conditions, the majority of the processors were of productive age (30–49 years old), comprising 24 individuals (68.57%). Education levels were generally low, with the largest group of respondents (12 individuals or 34.29%) having received no formal schooling. Most processors (18 respondents or 51.43%) had fewer than four family dependents. In terms of health, all sago processors (100%) utilized health facilities, such as community health centers (Puskesmas), when requiring medical services. Regarding business experience, 15 individuals (42.86%) had been processing sago for 5–9 years. The average income from sago processing was Rp 1,512,902 per processing cycle. The welfare level of the sago processors, based on the Household Income Exchange Value (NTPRP) analysis, yielded a score of 1.2. This value exceeds one (NTPRP > 1), indicating that the processors' household income is sufficient to cover both business expenses and family consumption needs.

Effect of shallot extract concentration as a natural plant growth regulator on the growth of lime (Citrus aurantifolia) cuttings

2026-10-18T14:25:18+09:00

Lime production in Manggarai Regency still faces various challenges, such as suboptimal cultivation technology, pest and disease infestations, and a lack of farmer awareness regarding the use of natural plant growth regulators (PGRs)—specifically those derived from shallot extract—which warrants further attention. This study aimed to determine the effect and optimal dosage of shallot extract, acting as a natural plant growth regulator, on the growth of lime (*Citrus aurantifolia*) cuttings. The research was conducted in Langke Rembong, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, from April to June 2025. A single-factor Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was employed, featuring five concentration levels of shallot extract: P0 (control), P1 (25%), P2 (50%), P3 (75%), and P4 (100%), with five replications for each treatment. The parameters observed included shoot height, number of shoots, and number of leaves. The results indicate that the application of shallot extract as a plant growth regulator has a significant effect on all growth parameters. The 75% treatment (P3) yielded the best results among the concentrations tested, with a shoot height of 9.16 cm, 11.80 shoots, and 42.30 leaves. These findings suggest that a 75% concentration of shallot extract (750 ml of extract mixed with 250 ml of water) is effective in stimulating the vegetative growth of lime cuttings.

Early growth response of three shallot varieties to different bulb sizes

2026-10-20T23:06:59+09:00

The early growth of shallot plants is strongly influenced by the variety and size of the seed bulbs used. This study aimed to evaluate the early growth responses of three shallot varieties to different seed bulb sizes. The study was conducted at the Horticultural Experimental Field, Lampung State Polytechnic, using a factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The first factor was shallot variety, consisting of Bima Brebes, Biru Lancor, and Batu Ijo, while the second factor was seed bulb size, classified as small, medium, and large. Each treatment combination was replicated three times, resulting in 27 experimental units. The results showed that Biru Lancor produced the tallest plants (29.86 cm), whereas Batu Ijo had the largest leaf diameter (0.61 cm). Medium and large seed bulbs produced plant heights of 28.98 and 29.06 cm, respectively, a leaf diameter of 0.66 cm, and a sprouting percentage of 100%. The interaction between variety and seed bulb size significantly affected leaf diameter. Medium-sized seed bulbs have the potential to serve as an alternative to large seed bulbs because they produced comparable early growth in several measured traits.

Effect of Watering Intervals and Chicken Manure Rates on the Growth and Yield of Waxy Corn (Zea mays L. var. ceratina)

2026-10-21T08:42:45+09:00

Limited water availability and suboptimal waxy corn yields remain challenges in crop production. This study investigated the growth and yield responses of waxy corn (Zea mays L. var. ceratina) to different watering intervals and chicken manure application rates, with the aim of identifying the treatment combination that provided the most favorable results. The experiment was conducted from December 2025 to February 2026 at a dryland experimental field in Kesamiran Village, Tarub District, Tegal Regency, Central Java, Indonesia. A factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was employed, consisting of two factors with three replications. The watering intervals were once every 1, 2, and 3 days, while chicken manure was applied at rates of 0, 15, and 30 t ha⁻¹. The experimental data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a 5% significance level to evaluate the effects of the treatments on the observed parameters. Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at the 5% significance level was subsequently performed when significant treatment effects were detected. The results revealed an interaction between watering intervals and chicken manure application rates on ear weight with husks and ear weight without husks. The combination of daily watering and chicken manure application at 30 t ha⁻¹ (i₀p₂) produced the highest ear weights, reaching 211.87 g with husks and 183.00 g without husks. In addition to these interaction effects, watering intervals and chicken manure application rates independently affected several plant growth and yield parameters.