Knowledge, adoption and economic performance of Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) cultivation - A case study in Kandy district.

Abstract

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) is a minor export crop in Sri Lanka since ancient time. Anyhow, Vanila does not consider as a good source of income though the Vanilla is second most expensive crop in the world. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge level, adoption level toward recommended practices of Vanilla cultivation and economic analysis of Vanilla cultivation in Sri Lanka. As study area, Ganga Ihala Korale divisional secretarial division was selected which has the highest Vanilla growers in Kandy district. Eighty (53% from total population) farmers were randomly selected among 150 farmers who registered under Ganga Ihala Korale DS division extension office. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaire and face to face interview. Data was analysis by inferential analysis methods. Knowledge and adoption index was measured using three-point Likert scale. Result of this study revealed that, majority of farmers showed a high level of knowledge (97.5%) and adoption (95%) concerning the recommended practices for Vanilla cultivation. According to the Pearson correlation analysis, knowledge and adoption of the recommended practices of Vanilla cultivation were highly correlated (r = 0.631, p = 0.00). Relevant to the economic analysis, it was found that, the total annual variable cost was LKR 15,750 constituting 29.1% of the total cost. The total annual fixed cost amounted to LKR 38,214, representing 70.8 % of the total cost. Consequently, the total annual cost was LKR 53,964.29. The average annual yield was 73.38 Kg. Farmers' gross income per acre per annum was LKR 259,370.10, with a cumulative gross income from the establishment of plants up to the present reaching LKR 889,814.60. Further, net profits were LKR 205,405.90 per acre per annum. The benefit-cost ratio was 4.8, the gross revenue ratio was 0.21, and the expense structure ratio was 2.43. The payback period was 3.2, and the return on investment was 4.37. Accordingly, this study has concluded that Vanilla cultivation is profitable. The study underscores that Vanilla cultivation is not only profitable but also a promising source of income for farmers.