Treatment for production risks in hydroponic vegetable farming: ex-ante, interactive, ex-post

Hydroponic vegetable farming presents unique production risks that can affect productivity and profitability. This study, conducted in Kendari City, identifies the main risks faced by 18 hydroponic vegetable farmers growing lettuce and pakcoy and examines how they manage these risks before (ex-ante), during (interactive), and after (ex-post) they occur. The treatment of production risks was analyzed descriptively and qualitatively, with findings revealing ten primary production risks, with growth failure and plant diseases being the most common. Farmers adopt risk management strategies, including preventive measures, adaptive responses, and recovery efforts. This study highlights the importance of proactive planning and adaptive strategy in reducing production risks, ensuring business sustainability, and increasing profitability. These insights provide practical guidance for hydroponic vegetable farmers to improve risk management and optimize their agricultural outcomes. Keywords: Treatment for risk, hydroponics, lettuce, pakcoy, ex-ante, interactive, ex-post.