STUDI BUDIDAYA DAN PASCAPANEN MELON GOLDEN DI UMAHTANI AGRICULTURE SERANG: METODE POLYBAG DAN HIDROPONIK MACHIDA

Abstract

Budidaya melon golden di Umah Tani Agriculture, Kota Serang, Banten, menjadi contoh penerapan teknologi pertanian modern yang ramah lingkungan. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengevaluasi efektivitas dua metode budidaya melon golden (Cucumis melo L.)—polybag dengan irigasi tetes dan hidroponik Machida—dalam sistem greenhouse di UmahTani Agriculture, Kota Serang. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif melalui observasi langsung, wawancara mendalam, dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa metode hidroponik Machida menghasilkan rata-rata 10 buah per tanaman, sementara metode polybag hanya 1–2 buah. Produktivitas sistem hidroponik mencapai hingga 60 buah per tanaman dalam satu siklus panen, dengan kadar gula >15%. Greenhouse mendukung perlindungan hingga 90% terhadap cuaca ekstrem dan hama. Teknologi Internet of Things (IoT) dan sistem irigasi tetes turut meningkatkan efisiensi. Konsep pemasaran “Pick Your Own” memperkuat keterlibatan konsumen. Studi ini menunjukkan bahwa hidroponik Machida dalam greenhouse merupakan metode budidaya melon yang lebih unggul secara kuantitatif dan berkelanjutan.

Cultivation  golden melon cultivation at Umah Tani Agriculture, Serang City, Banten, is an example of the application of modern agricultural technology that is environmentally friendly. The study This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two methods of golden melon cultivation (Cucumis melo L.)-polybag with drip irrigation and Machida hydroponics-in a greenhouse system at UmahTani Agriculture, Kota Serang. greenhouse system at UmahTani Agriculture, Serang City. The research method used was descriptive qualitative through direct observation, in-depth interviews and documentation. The results showed that the hydroponic method Machida hydroponic method produces an average of 10 fruits per plant, while the polybag method produces only 1-2 fruits. method only produces 1-2 fruits. The productivity of the hydroponic system reaches up to 60 fruits per plant in one harvest cycle, with sugar content >20%. plant in one harvest cycle, with sugar content >15%. Greenhouse supports up to 90% protection against extreme weather and pests. Technology Internet of Things (IoT) and drip irrigation systems increase efficiency. The "Pick Your Own" marketing concept strengthens consumer engagement. This study showed that Machida hydroponics in a greenhouse is a quantitatively superior and sustainable method of cultivating method of melon cultivation that is quantitatively superior and sustainable.