Production Improvement in Siam Orange Farming: A Farmer Group Case in Kendari, Indonesia

La Ode Jabuddin; Edi Syah Mihrad; Lestariwati

doi:10.63922/ijeter.v4i02.6170

La Ode Jabuddin Universitas Halu Oleo
Edi Syah Mihrad Universitas Halu Oleo
Lestariwati Universitas Halu Oleo

DOI: https://doi.org/10.63922/ijeter.v4i02.6170

Keywords: Siam orange, production improvement, farmer group, production capacity, fruit quality

Abstract

Improving horticultural production requires both higher output and stronger farmer capacity to manage harvesting and fruit quality. This study analyzed production improvements in Siam orange farming by linking changes in production capability to physical production outcomes. The study was conducted in the Makmur Sejahtera Farmer Group, Mokoau, Kambu District, Kendari City, Indonesia, using a descriptive longitudinal case-study approach. The study assessed production capability using seven indicators scored on a five-point scale and evaluated production performance through production per tree, premium-fruit proportion, damaged-fruit proportion, and sorting practices. The production-capability score increased from 19 to 33 out of a maximum of 35, a 73.68% increase. Representative production increased from 30.0 to 37.5 kg/tree, a 25.00% increase. Premium fruit increased from approximately 50% to 65%, while damaged fruit decreased from 9% to 5%. Premium output per tree consequently increased from approximately 15.00 to 24.38 kg. The largest improvements in production capability occurred in quality-oriented harvesting and fruit sorting. The findings indicate that production improvement was characterized not only by increased yield but also by greater farmer capability, higher premium output, and lower fruit damage. These results highlight the importance of integrating production quantity and quality-related capability in evaluating smallholder horticultural performance.

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