Assessment of Awareness and Knowledge on Pesticide Usage by Cauliflower Growers in Tatkon Township, Myanmar

Abstract

Cauliflower production in Tatkon Township relies substantially on pesticides because the crop is vulnerable to pests that can reduce yield and quality. This study assessed pesticide-use practices and the awareness and knowledge of cauliflower growers in Kyathe Aing and Nwe Yit villages, Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory. A cross-sectional survey of 110 growers was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Awareness and knowledge were classified using index scores, while descriptive statistics summarised respondent characteristics and pesticide-use practices. Pearson’s chi-square test examined associations between socio-demographic factors and awareness and knowledge, and Pearson’s correlation analysis assessed relationships among awareness, knowledge, and practices. Most respondents had medium levels of awareness (63.64%) and knowledge (59.09%). Educational level, cauliflower-growing experience, and the frequency of visits by public extension staff were significantly associated with awareness. Farming experience, cauliflower-growing experience, and pesticide-spraying experience were significantly associated with knowledge. Awareness and knowledge were strongly and positively correlated (r = 0.831), whereas pesticide-use practices were negatively correlated with awareness (r = −0.544) and knowledge (r = −0.604). Farmers gave greater attention to preventive measures than to the proper disposal of pesticide containers, and awareness of prohibited pesticides was limited. The findings indicate a gap between awareness or knowledge and the consistent adoption of safe pesticide-use practices. Practical training, regular extension contact, and targeted guidance on protective equipment, prohibited pesticides, health risks, and container disposal are required to support safer pesticide management.