Characterizing smallholder organic vegetable farming practices in a Mountainous Area in the Philippines
Paper Details
Characterizing smallholder organic vegetable farming practices in a Mountainous Area in the Philippines
Abstract
The research described the attributes of smallholder organic vegetable farmers, their production practices and problems and best practices as bases for policy directions to ensure the sustainability of small-hold organic vegetable farming in the CAR. Survey, using a researcher-made questionnaire was the primary data gathering technique. Thirty one (31) farmers were personally interviewed and an ocular inspection of their organic farms to observe their production practices was undertaken. Telephone inquiries or short messaging system (SMS) were also utilized when some information were missed out during the interview and to verify vague and incomplete information. Descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages and means/averages were used to qualify and summarize data. Although farming is typically a man’s world, more women and more professionals are increasingly been involved in smallholder farming and in organic agriculture, in general. The average age of 46 indicates that the farmers just recently shifted to organic farming or have had careers prior to farming. The farmers cultivate an average area of not more than 600 square meters deriving an average annual net income of P98,387.39. Production is described as a system where different kinds or varieties of vegetables are raised in complement with or intercropped with the others to maximize the production area. Natural calamities, pest management, production inputs, lack of capital, plant management, lack of manpower and irrigation are major production constraints. Despite these constraints, best practices had been documented that could sustain smallholder organic vegetable production in the CAR.
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