Comparative Profitability of Melon and Watermelon Production in South Konawe District of Southeast Sulawesi

Abstract

Melon and watermelon are two high-value crops that have been commercially cultivated recently inSoutheast Sulawesi. The objective of the study was to examine and compare the cost and returns of melon andwatermelon production. The study was conducted in Abenggi village in South Konawe district of SoutheastSulawesi. Twenty melon farmers and 20 watermelon farmers were selected as respondents. Data collection wasdone using a questionnaire-based interview method. Data and information were analyzed using cost and returnsanalysis and independent sample t-test. Results of the study revealed that both melon and watermelonproduction were profitable as indicated by their revenue-cost ratio being higher than 1. Due to small size offarming, difference in net returns per farm from melon and watermelon was not statistically significant. Perhectare net returns from melon farming were statistically significantly higher than that of watermelon farming.Net returns from either melon or watermelon farming were higher than that of many other crops in theprovince. Farmers should continue to focus on the cultivation of the crops as they can increase their income andpromote rural economy. The local government should assist the development of the two crops by ensuringavailability of farm inputs and improving provision of weather forecast results to the farmers.