Kandyan Home Gardens and Rural Economy: Case of Athipola Village in Matale District

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the flows and diversity of products and services, their economic value and contribution to the household economy of Kandyan home gardens in Athipola village in Matale district Following a preliminary survey (n=50), twenty households were selected at random to collect fortnightly data for a period of two months. Data were analyzed descriptively. Preliminary survey revealed that there were economically important 19 vegetables, 10 leafy vegetables, 19 fruits, 4 medicinal plants and 9 spices in an average home garden. The total annual income contribution of home gardens to village economy was Rs. 6,997,926. Of which, 47%, 33%,7%, 6% and 5% derived from spices, nuts/flowers/leaves (Cocos nucifera, Areca catechu, Anthurium andraeanum, and Piper betle), fruits, fuel wood and value added products, respectively. It was also evident that the contribution of animal products to household income was low (0.02%) whereas plant products contributed 35.5%. It can be concluded from the results that the contribution of home garden products to the household economy of Kandyan Home Gardens of Athipola village is compelling. Spices are found to be the major income contributor while livestock recorded the least. The contribution of home gardens to the Athipola village can further be improved through diversification and introduction of livestock components to the system.