Persepsi Petani terhadap Varietas Bawang Merah Tajuk di Desa Yafawun, Kecamatan Kei Kecil Timur, Kabupaten Maluku Tenggara

Abstract

This study aims to examine farmers' perceptions of the Tajuk shallot variety in Yafawun Village, East Kei Kecil District, Southeast Maluku Regency. The study employed a descriptive survey method, utilizing questionnaires and interviews with 22 farmers cultivating Tajuk shallots. Data were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively to describe farmers' perceptions regarding plant characteristics, productivity, resistance to pests and diseases, and its economic benefits. The results showed that most farmers had a positive perception of the Tajuk shallot variety, primarily due to its relatively high productivity and good market demand. However, some farmers still expressed concerns regarding the difficulty in obtaining quality seeds and the plant's suboptimal resistance to extreme weather conditions. These findings are expected to form the basis for developing more effective support programs for Tajuk shallot cultivation to improve farmer welfare in the study area