WORKSHOP ON THE CULTIVATION OF Piper retrofractum Vahl AND HORTICULTURAL CROPS

Abstract

Environmental issues, food security, and healthy lifestyles are urgent challenges that require practical and educational responses. This community service program aimed to enhance public knowledge and skills in organic cultivation of Piper retrofractum Vahl (Javanese long pepper), and vegetables, while promoting the productive use of home gardens. The implementation was carried out through participatory methods in several stages: site survey and needs assessment, socialization, theoretical training, field practice, technical assistance, and evaluation with reflection. The program involved lecturers and students of the Biology Education Study Program at Universitas Muhammadiyah Metro as facilitators, as well as partner communities such as women farmer groups, waste bank communities, schools, and the general public. The results showed a significant increase in participants’ understanding of organic cultivation principles, indicated by a 70% improvement in knowledge scores.The survival rate of Piper retrofractum and vegetables exceeded 80%, reflecting the suitability of cultivation techniques with local conditions. The program’s impact included improved ecological awareness, growing interest among participants to develop small-scale organic-based businesses, and the formation of household food self-sufficiency patterns that are healthier and more sustainable. Overall, this program proved effective in empowering local communities through organic agriculture that is environmentally friendly and economically valuable.