Coffee Production and the Use of Bioproducts among Farmers in Song District, Phrae Province

Abstract

This research aimed to study the coffee production conditions and the use of bioproducts among farmers. The sample consisted of 155 coffee farmers using simple random sampling in Song District, Phrae Province. The research instrument was an interview questionnaire. Statistical methods included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and ranking. The results found that most farmers were female, with an average age of 52.79 years. The average number of laborers was 2.52 persons per household. Farmers had an average of 3.45 years of experience in coffee cultivation. Average agricultural income was 129,368.71 baht/year, while household debt averaged 49,099.35 baht/year. Farmers mainly cultivated Robusta coffee. Regarding the use of bioproducts in coffee production, it was found that farmers used Trichoderma fungi mixed with seedling substrates or applied in planting holes to prevent root rot disease. Farmers expressed the need for reliable sources for purchasing Trichoderma fungi and for regular hands-on training provided by relevant agencies. Recommendations concerning the use of Trichoderma included organizing training programs to enhance farmers’ knowledge and understanding of its application, as well as supporting farmers in producing biological control agents for use within the community.