Study of Cost and Return from Growing Organic Hom Thong Banana in the Area of Tha Yang District, Phetchaburi Province

Abstract

The research aimed to investigate the background information of Homthong banana farmers, explore the process of cultivating Homthong bananas without toxic chemicals, and examine the costs and returns associated with Homthong banana cultivation in Ban Nong Pluak, Tha Yang District. This qualitative study involved 10 Homthong banana farmers selected through convenient sampling. Data was collected using interviews and questionnaires, and analysis techniques such as percentage calculations, financial analysis, and cost-revenue calculations were used. Return analysis measures like break-even point, net present value (NPV), payback period (PB), and return on investment (ROI) were also employed.

            The findings provided an overview of 10 Homthong banana farmers in Ban Nong Pluak. Among the respondents, 70% were male, with 60% falling in the 50-59 age range. 70% of the farmers had completed secondary school education. 60% of the farmers combined Homthong banana cultivation with other crops, while 40% focused solely on Homthong banana cultivation. 80% of the farmers used their own capital for investment, and 60% had over 10 years of experience in growing Homthong bananas. The process of growing Homthong bananas involved five steps: soil preparation, water system installation, banana cultivation, maintenance, and harvesting. Planting took place between 2021-2022. In the first year, the total cost was 46,313 baht, with variable costs at 43,075 baht and fixed costs at 3,238 baht. In the second year, the total cost was 23,975 baht, including variable costs of 11,525 baht and fixed costs of 3,050 baht. The first-year total income was 157,500 baht, and in the second year, it was 95,040 baht. Net profit in the first year was 111,187 baht, and in the second year, it was 71,065 baht. The break-even point for the selling price of Golden Banana was 13.23 baht per comb in the first year, with a net present value of 151,438.63 baht. According to farmer interviews, bananas could be harvested for sale after a waiting period of 10 months or more. The payback period was calculated to be 107.33 days, and the return on investment for the first year was 3.40, while for the second year, it was 3.96.