Development and small farmer organization of asparagus production in Central Thailand

A survey has been carried out in 1990 among Green Asparagus producers, in tambon Thung Kwang, Kamphaengsaen District of Nakhon Pathom Province, in order to assess the differentiation of cultivation practices, their agronomic and economic results and farmer needs for technical references in relation to the functioning of each type of Agricultural Production System (A.P.S.). Means of production, labour force and capital availabilities, as well as natural environment, labour calendar, family's general objectives influence to a large extent the farmers' decision-making process. Three main types of A.P.S. have been identified according to the constraints and potentialities for Green Asparagus production. A wide range of variation among the itineraries of techniques performed has been identified as a consequence of farmer different plantation management strategies. This underline the importance of a well targeted technical message and the unsuitability of any normative, standard "package" advice to be extended to all growers. The typology based on the three main farm models can explain part of the yield differentiation and economic output. It is also useful to provide technical advice adapted to these various A.P.S. specific objectives and constraints. At the same time, this agronomic survey is a key tool to identify relevant research topics which are well connected to farmers' circumstances and needs. (Résumé d'auteur