AQUA AROIDS IN HIGHLAND: FARMERS' EXPERIENCE IN JAMALPUR

Abstract

A study was conducted to assess the farmers' production techniques of aqua aroids (locally known as Panikachu ) in highland situations. Three cultivars of aqua aroid, namely Iri kachu, Dholkhamcr kachu and Narikeli kachu were found very frequent in highland. These are planted in October to November with different winter vegetables as intercrops. Straw mulch was used to preserve soil moisture. Iri kachu had significant yield and gross margin compared to other cultivars. The yield was 97.5 ton per hectare and the gross margin was 1,26, 196.00 taka per hectare. Disease and insect infestation, lack of improved technology, and lack of planting materials were the major problems of aqua aroid cultivation.