Farmers’ Preferences on the Quality of Indonesian Chili’s Varieties for Developing New Varieties

Abstract

The objective of the research was to identify local varieties of chili that are preferred by farmers and which have superiority in terms of plant growth and fruit quality as well as high yield. The identified superior chilies will be recommended to be used as mother plants to create superior chili varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases. The research was conducted in the experimental field of the Indonesian Vegetable Research Institute (Ivegri) from March to September 2020. The methodology used was a combination of demonstration plots and Farmer Participatory Research. In the demonstration plot, local varieties of chili were planted, consisting of 17 varieties of big chilies, 13 varieties of curly chilies and 8 varieties of cayenne. The demonstration plot was created for two main purposes. First, to obtain data on the yield of local varieties of chili under study, and secondly as an observation plot for 31 and 30 participating farmers in the implementation of Farmer Participatory Research to determine their preferences for local varieties of chili in the demonstration plot. The results showed that farmers preferences on the quality of chili varieties can be identified. It is recommended that identified varieties to be used as parent plants for making superior chili varieties resistant to pests and diseases. The recommended varieties are 1) for big chilies varieties are Pilar and Hot Vision, 2) for curly chili varieties are Kastilo, TM 999 and LV-8451, and 3) for cayenne is Prima.