KOMPENTENSI PETANI DALAM PENGENDALIAN HAMA ULAT PERUSAK DAUN (Plutella Xylostella) PADA TANAMAN SAWI DI DESA JATI BALI KECAMATAN RANOMEETO BARAT KABUPATEN KONAWE SELATAN

The objective of this study is to evaluate the ability of farmers to control Plutella Xylostella pests on mustard plants in Jati Bali Village, Ranomeeto Barat Sub-district, South Konawe Regency. A qualitative approach was employed, with the research informants being mustard farmers in Jati Bali Village, selected using the Snowball Sampling method. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and documentation using an interview guide. The data analysis followed a qualitative method that involved four stages: data reduction, data presentation, verification, and conclusion drawing. The findings revealed that mustard farmers in Jati Bali Village primarily rely on synthetic pesticides for pest control. Farmers have demonstrated competence in pest control, as evidenced by their knowledge, attitudes, and skills in the farming process. However, their knowledge is limited to the use of chemical pesticides, and they lack sufficient understanding of other pest control methods, such as biological control, mechanical control, and disruption of the pest breeding cycle. Farmers who are involved in pest control should possess a positive attitude towards environmentally friendly pest control and have the necessary skills to apply different control methods effectively. By improving their knowledge, attitudes, and skills, farmers can adopt more diverse and sustainable pest control methods, which can reduce economic losses and negative environmental impacts.