Feasibility of Smallholder Maize and Peanut Intercropping Farming in Lawa Subdistrict in Southeast Sulawesi

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the profitability and feasibility of intercropping maize (Zea mays L.) and peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Wamelai Village, Lawa Subdistrict, West Muna District, Southeast Sulawesi. Data were collected through direct observation, structured interviews, and documentation and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Revenue-Cost (R/C) ratio. Key variables in this study included farmer characteristics (age, education level, and family size), land area (ha), farming costs, production levels, revenue, profit, and the feasibility of intercropping practices. The results show that the intercropping system generates an average profit of IDR 4,084,878 per hectare per planting season, with production levels of 185 liters of maize and 310 liters of peanuts per hectare. The average selling price is IDR 3,811 per liter for maize and IDR 14,333 per liter for peanuts. As indicated by an R/C ratio of 4.84, the feasibility analysis demonstrates that the intercropping system is highly profitable and feasible. This study underscores the potential of intercropping maize and peanuts as a sustainable farming practice that can enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in the region.