Fertilisers and chemicals use on vegetable farmers in Lao PDR : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Agibusiness at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Abstract

The research study concentrates on vegetable production to study the use of fertiliser and chemicals in vegetable growing processes, which helps to improve our understanding of the characteristics and nature of fertiliser and chemical applications among farmers in the study areas. Vegetable farming is increasingly important to people as a source of food and for sustaining food security within the country. On the other hand, vegetable farming contributes significantly to the low-income community, especially in rural areas, where limited capital and few opportunities to access skills, markets, and other development opportunities. However, fertilisers and chemicals play a crucial role in crop production, which farmers who produce for commercial purposes describe as indispensable; without them, the desired quantity and quality of vegetable production would not be achieved. The expansion of the market is increasingly through commercial vegetable farming activities, which are related to the use of fertilisers and chemicals in commercial vegetable production. Given the importance of fertilisers and chemicals, as described by farmers, the study primarily focuses on how farmers use them in vegetable farming. This research study describes the vegetable farming in Lao PDR and how fertilisers and chemicals are used in vegetable production. The research also examined the nature and characteristics of vegetable farming practices, which help provide a deeper understanding and greater knowledge of farming. This research is based on data from interviews with 25 participants, including 21 vegetable farmers, along with 4 key informants such as a village head of the agricultural group, a village head, a district-level o icer, and a provincial o icer. A qualitative methodology was employed to analyse the interview data, which was examined in terms of individual-provided information and categorised into themes, aligning with the study's aim to explore factors influencing the use of fertilisers and chemicals by vegetable farmers in the Lao PDR. The study found that the farming practices among vegetable farmers were varied; individual farmers used different methods of applying fertiliser and chemicals. The use of fertilisers in vegetable farming revealed the existence of various types for growing the same crop (coriander— Coriandrum sativum L.) and the usage rate of fertilisers and chemicals was higher than the officially recommended rate. Unlabelled and banned chemical products were still found in active and regular use among most farmers interviewed, including plant supplements and liquid fertilisers. Most farmers who participated in the study expressed the challenge that farming is unpredictable and unstable, with variable vegetable market prices, which prevented long-term planning and led to unsustainable farming practices as the use of fertilisers and chemicals is based on vegetable prices, such as times of application, quantity, type and methods. The study findings presented evidence related to food safety, as some farmers grew vegetables in separate plots for consumption and sale. Growing vegetables for sale, they applied fertilisers and chemicals at higher rates and more frequently. For their own consumption, farmers grow separately and apply a lower level of chemicals. Farmers expressed concerns about the safety of vegetables grown with high levels of chemical input. Based on the study, the vegetable products available in the market may contain high levels of chemical inputs, raising concerns about safe consumption. The study indicated that a high quantity of fertilisers and chemicals is used in vegetable farming, especially the use of unlabelled fertilisers and chemicals without instructions and chemical information. The market preference for vegetable production was for good appearance, while product safety and standards seemed to be ignored. The study provides information on the use of fertilisers and chemicals, identifies factors that influence their application, and thus enhances understanding of farming practices, conditions, and farmers' perceptions as producers. The findings from this study can serve as initial data on vegetable farming production, offering valuable insights for further research to improve vegetable farming, the agricultural system, and effective policies that promote sustainable agriculture and a stable, safe, and secure food supply for the population.