Empowering Durian Farmer Groups through the Application of Cultivation Technology

Abstract

Abstract. Kokap sub-district is the sub-district with the largest area when compared to other sub-districts in Kulon Progo Regency. The administrative area of Kokap District consists of 5 subdistricts, namely Hargomulyo, Hargorejo, Hargowilis, Kalirejo and Hargotirto. The types of plants cultivated in the Kokap area include food crops, crops, plantations and horticulture such as vegetables and fruits. Durian is not included in the list of plants grown in the Kokap District area, because Durian is still cultivated in residents' yards with not as many other plants. Nonetheless, the PCM Kokap durian farmer organization has expressed the difficulties related to durian cultivation, including the problem of fruitless durian trees and the poor taste of the fruit's flesh, even when it succeeds in yielding fruit. The lack of knowledge about proper durian production methods is another issue that the locals must deal with. In addition, they have no idea how to take care of durian plants to ensure that they yield fruit with a sweet flavor. The solution offered to overcome this problem is counseling and cultivation practices and maintenance of durian plants in accordance with Good Agricultural Practices so that it is hoped that durian plants can bear fruit with a sweet taste of fruit flesh. The results of the activity show an increase in knowledge and skills of durian farmers regarding durian cultivation practices that are in accordance with good agricultural practices and efforts to make durian plants bear sweet fruit. Farmers' awareness of applying fertilization or booster/hormonal treatments to plants increased by 17%.