Assessing the Cassava Production Technology by Crop Models in Enhancing Cassava Production Efficiency in Soil Series Group 35 Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of employing crop models to enhance cassava production efficiency in soil series group 35 at Kanchanaburi province. The research focused on developing cassava production technology using crop models. The methodology involved simulating cassava production to evaluate yields under diverse management conditions. Furthermore, critical management factors were explored using the decision tree model technique to pinpoint a technology set conducive to efficient cassava production. Significant adjustments involved augmenting nitrogen phosphorus and potassium chemical fertilize informed by soil analysis values. In March to December, planting occurred with a cassava population of 1,800 to 2,000 plants per rai, utilizing Rayong 11 varieties. Subsequently, the developed technology underwent testing with 10 farmers, comparing it against conventional farming methods. Carried out from April 2022 to March 2023 in Danmakhamtia District, Kanchanaburi Province. The results revealed statistically significant differences in cassava yields and percentage of starch in cassava roots, with the test method yielding an average of 5,025 kilograms per rai, compared to 3,616 kilograms per rai for farmers' methods. Moreover, the test method demonstrated higher yields, with an increase of 1,409 kilograms per rai, representing a 38.96 percent improvement. In terms of percentage starch in cassava roots of the test method of 28.7 percent, compared to 27.4 percent for farmers' methods. The test method demonstrated higher percentage starch in cassava roots, with an increase of 1.3 percentage, representing a 4.74 percent improvement. In terms of production costs, the test method exhibited an average cost of 4,722 baht per rai, with increase 401 baht per rai representing a 9.28 percent higher than the average farmer's method. Regarding income, the test method generated an average of 12,562 baht per rai, with an increase of 3,523 baht per rai marking a 38.98 percent increase compared to farmers' methods. When evaluating net income, the test method yielded an average of 7,840 baht per rai, with an increase of 3,122 baht per rai marking a 66.17 percent higher than farmers' methods. The benefic cost ratio (BCR) for the test method was 2.66, surpassing the 2.09 ratio for farmers' methods, indicative of a superior return on investment. These findings underscore the potential of crop models to optimize cassava production and enhance profitability for farmers soil series group 35 at Kanchanaburi Province.