Income differences and feasibility of maize farming with different harvest times on dry land in Bali

Abstract

Maize is one of staple food sources. The low productivity of maize at farm level tends to change the maize harvest time from old harvest time for food need into the young one for commercial need and feed purposes which is considered more profitable by farmers. This study aimed to determine the income and feasibility of maize farming by applying different harvest times. The study was conducted in 2020 in the dry land of Musi Village, Buleleng Regency, Bali with participatory rural appraisal (PRA) approach involving 30 farmers. Data collected included input and output of maize farming. Data analysis used partial budget analysis to determine income and feasibility of maize farming. The results showed that maize farming at early harvested has 2.1 times higher income than that at optimal maturity harvested. With R/C ratio of 1.74, maize farming at early harvested was more profitable and feasible. If the farming pattern is applied continuously, it will reduce the supply of maize as staple food reserve. Therefore, policies from local government and arrangement from farmers in maize farming are needed so that the interests of fulfilling the needs of staple food as well as increasing farmers’ income can still be achieved.