Knowledge and application of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) among cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) growers in Bharatpur metropolitan city, Nepal

A study was conducted to determine the Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) adopted by cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) growers in Ward 27 of Bharatpur Metropolitan City, Chitwan, Nepal. For the collection of data, 60 cucumber growers were interviewed through a semi-structured questionnaire. Farmers were categorized as GAP aware farmers and GAP unaware farmers. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistical tools, such as t-test and binary logit regression analysis. The results revealed that only 25% of the farmers were aware of GAP. Although, majority of farmers were not aware of GAP, i.e., 75%, yet they managed to apply various good agricultural practices on their farms. 70% of farmers planted the recommended variety, 70% practiced mulching, and 60% applied the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF). Likewise, almost all (93.33%) integrated organic nutrients alongside chemical fertilizers, whereas 81.7% applied irrigation water free from harmful contaminants. The results revealed that 65% farmers used PPE while handling chemical fertilizers and 61.7% adopted IPM. Very few, 29% of respondents kept the record, which was determined to be the least adopted among other practices. From the result of the binary logit regression analysis, none of the independent factors were found to be statistically affecting GAP awareness. Poor access to government services, followed by inadequate access to GAP input, were found to be the major problems related to GAP adoption. Limited knowledge and training, and limited market incentives were other major problems faced by farmers.