Lampung is Strengthening Itself as a National Watermelon Center

JAKARTA - In the midst of increasing demand for fresh fruit in various regions, Lampung continues to show its role as one of the most important watermelon production centers in Indonesia. Armed with supportive agroclimatic conditions, Lampung's watermelons not only meet the needs of the local market, but also become the main supplier for various regions in Sumatra and Java.

Lampung's success as a watermelon center is inseparable from the ability of farmers to adopt various cultivation innovations, including the use of superior seeds that are able to meet market needs as well as challenges in the field. For years, farmers in various centers of watermelon production in Lampung have continued to develop cultivation practices that are increasingly modern and efficient so as to be able to increase productivity and quality of the harvest.

The Regent of Central Lampung, I Komang Koheri said that Central Lampung Regency is an area rich in agricultural potential. The watermelon commodity from Central Lampung has proven to have exceptional quality and is able to meet the needs of the market, both locally and nationally. "The local government is fully committed to continue to support farmers, starting from the provision of facilities and infrastructure, guidance from consultants, to efforts to maintain post-harvest price stability," said the Regent of Central Lampung, I Komang Koheri.

The enthusiasm and success of the Central Lampung watermelon farmers even gave birth to a symbol of pride for the local community through the inauguration of the AMARA Monument in Simpang Agung Village, Central Lampung Regency. The monument was built as a form of appreciation for the journey of the watermelon farmers who have contributed to developing the local agriculture as well as a reminder of the importance of collaboration between farmers, technological innovation, and the support of various parties in advancing the horticultural sector.

Misno, one of the farmers from Simpang Agung Village, Central Lampung Regency who consistently develops his banana business through the application of cultivation innovation and technology, said that the success achieved so far is supported by sustainable technical assistance. Various knowledge about cultivation management, fertilization, disease control, to techniques to produce quality fruit is obtained through interaction and learning with the team from PT East West Seed Indonesia (EWINDO) in the field.

"In the past, we farmed more based on experience. Over time, we learned a lot from the EWINDO team about more precise and efficient cultivation methods. The assistance provided helped us understand the ever-evolving cultivation technology, from land preparation, plant maintenance, to handling the harvest. With the application of better technology, the results we get are also increasing," said Misno, in his statement, Thursday, June 4.

Misno added that the use of superior watermelon seeds AMARA F1 is one of the important factors that support the success of his watermelon business. The characteristics of large fruit, high productivity, and its resistance to various cultivation challenges make the variety increasingly trusted by farmers in his area.

"AMARA F1 has become part of our agricultural business journey. The fruit is large, the results are satisfactory, and the market is also good. Most importantly, we not only get seeds, but also assistance that helps us continue to grow. Therefore, until now I still believe and grow with EWINDO," he said.

Watermelon AMARA F1 is able to produce large-sized fruit with a potential weight of 7 to 9 kilograms per fruit. In optimal cultivation conditions, this variety has a very high yield potential of 33 to 39 tons per hectare.

In addition to high productivity, AMARA F1 also has a relatively fast harvest life, which is around 58 to 62 days after planting. This character provides benefits for farmers because it allows for acceleration of the production cycle and more efficient turnover of agricultural businesses.

In terms of plant resistance, AMARA F1 has good tolerance to a number of important diseases that are often a challenge in growing watermelons, such as Gummy Stem Blight (GSB) or gummy stem disease, fusarium wilt, and bacterial wilt. This variety is also known to have an easy pollination process that helps form fruit more optimally.

Another advantage is the hard and strong fruit skin character so that it can maintain the quality of the fruit during the distribution process. This durability is an important added value considering that most of Lampung watermelon production is marketed to various areas in Sumatra and Java Island which require transportation over relatively long distances.

Deputy Managing Director of EWINDO, Isak Heryawan, emphasized that the success of watermelon production centers in Indonesia, including Lampung, cannot be separated from the role of farmers who are the main foundation of the national food system.

"Farmers are a very important part of the Indonesian food system. They are on the front line in ensuring food availability for the community. Therefore, EWINDO will continue to be committed to being the best farmer friends through the provision of superior seeds, assistance, and innovations that contribute more than other seeds that can provide real benefits for the success of their farming business," said Isak.

According to him, the great potential possessed by Lampung shows that Indonesia's horticulture sector has very promising opportunities if supported by the right seed technology, good cultivation practices, and the spirit of farmers that continues to grow.