An Investigation of Constraints Experienced by Homegarden Farmers of Coastal Agro-Ecological Units of Southern Kerala

Abstract

Homegardens or homesteads represent a promising land use system and are common in Kerala, where the average size of farm households is small. The present investigation was carried out in the coastal homegardens of three selected panchayaths of Southern Kerala during 2021-22 to measure the constraints perceived by the coastal homegarden farmers. A total of 105 homegardens were included in the sample, with 35 homegardens purposefully selected from each identified panchayat. Farmers were interviewed using a structured interview schedule containing both open and closed-ended questions to understand the constraints. The constraints were then ranked based on the total scores obtained by summing up the individual scores for each constraint. These constraints were categorized into five main groups: Economic, Personal, Technology, Physical, and Other Constraints. Among these, "Lack of scientific knowledge," "Salinity," and "Flooding" were identified as the most critical constraints. Furthermore, the farmers provided valuable suggestions to address these constraints. These recommendations emphasized the development of tailored practices for coastal home gardens, the need for support from extension agencies, collaborative technology development, integration of traditional and scientific approaches, the establishment of market connections, the creation of accessible input centres, and the promotion of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). These suggestions highlight crucial areas for future action and development, potentially enhancing the sustainability and productivity of coastal home gardens in Southern Kerala, benefiting both farmers and the broader community.