Comparative Efficiency Analysis of Organic and Conventional Melon Farming

Abstract

Globally, the impact of chemical fertilizer usage in agricultural cultivation techniques is increased production. This phenomenon leads to a dependence on its usage among farmers. However, the current situation in Indonesia is experiencing a scarcity of chemical fertilizers, resulting in high prices. One effort to improve this situation is through organic farming. Organic farming is a method that emphasizes the principles of natural ecosystems in the production process while yielding high-quality products. One approach to achieving organic farming is the use of organic fertilizers. This article uses a system literature review method regarding organic and conventional melon agribusiness. This article discusses the efficiency of organic and conventional melon farming from an environmental, human health, and economic perspective. Indonesian statistical data from 2021 indicates a 6.54% decrease in melon production, amounting to 129,147 tons. This decline is caused by the potential yield of melon varieties in Indonesia, ranging from only 36 to 43.91 tons per hectare, with fluctuating results. The issue of melon production in Indonesia is attributed to cultivation techniques reliant on chemical substances such as chemical fertilizers. Melon cultivation that adopts organic farming practices demonstrates that a 10% increase in organic fertilizer usage can lead to a 4.2% increase in melon production. The result indicates that organic melon farming is more efficient and profitable for farmers due to its higher market value.