The Role of Cropping System on Horticultural Farming Production and Income in the Bromo Region

Ngadisari Village, a leading horticultural center in the Bromo highlands, is known for its potato, leek, and cabbage cultivation by the Tengger community. Farmers commonly use two systems: potato monoculture and intercropping with leeks or cabbage, which affect production and income. This study analyzes the role of the cropping system, specifically comparing monoculture and intercropping in influencing the production and income of potato farming in the Bromo region. Data from 50 potato farmers, selected via snowball sampling, were analyzed using a Cobb-Douglas production function and multiple linear regression. Results show that land area, seed quantity, and cropping system have a significant influence on production. Meanwhile, production costs and cropping system are the key determinants of farmer income. These findings highlight that the choice of cropping system is crucial for the economic performance of potato farming. The research offers a practical, evidence-based guide for farmers to select optimal systems to maximize income. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights for government policies aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting the economic stability of highland communities.