In the serene Indonesian village of Kertahayu, Pamarican, Ciamis Agus Sumarno has been farming for nearly a decade. Over the years, he has faced numerous challenges, from unpredictable weather patterns to the rising resilience of pests. Yet, his determination to adapt and innovate has led him to explore sustainable farming practices. Agus recently integrated QarboGrow™ into his farming routine, and his experience showcases the potential of modern solutions to revolutionise traditional agriculture.
Agus was intrigued by its claim to maximise the absorption of UV light. (Photo: Agus Sumarmo)
1. Can you tell us about your farm—how long you’ve been farming, the size of your land, and any challenges you’ve faced in the past?
I’ve been farming for eight years, managing 0.5 hectares of my own land and 1.5 hectares through a sharecropping system. Farming isn’t without its difficulties. Climate and weather changes, such as droughts and floods, have been significant hurdles. Pests have become increasingly resistant, and access to fertilisers is often delayed, complicating the farming process further.
2. How did you hear about QarboGrow™, and what made you decide to try it?
I came across QarboGrow™ while reading its description and was intrigued by its claim to maximise the absorption of UV light. As a farmer, I’m always excited to try innovative products that promise to enhance productivity, so I decided to give it a shot.
Even during a brown planthopper outbreak, harvest was 20% higher than the control. (Photo: Agus Sumarmo)
3. What changes have you noticed in your rice yields since using QarboGrow™?
The changes have been impressive. The leaves are greener, the stems stronger, and the grains on the panicles denser. These improvements have contributed significantly to the overall health and productivity of my rice crops.
4. How has the increase in yield impacted your income or your family’s well-being?
The impact has been substantial. Even during a brown planthopper outbreak, my harvest was 20% higher than the control. This additional yield has provided extra income for my family, improving our quality of life and offering more financial stability.
5. Were you able to reduce any farming costs, like fertiliser or other inputs, by using QarboGrow™?
Yes, indirectly. By using the same amount of fertiliser but supplementing it with QarboGrow™, I’ve seen higher yields. This increased efficiency effectively reduces costs while maximising results.
The leaves are greener, the stems stronger, and the grains on the panicles denser. (Photo: Agus Sumarmo)
6. What does sustainable farming mean to you, and how does QarboGrow™ help you contribute to it?
To me, sustainable farming means combining modern science and innovation while respecting nature and biodiversity. QarboGrow™ aligns with this vision because it doesn’t include chemicals, ensuring the safety of our water sources and agricultural land. It provides a balance between progress and preserving the environment.
7. What are your hopes for the future of farming in your community?
I hope for a future where farming systems are more environmentally friendly, promoting plant health and biodiversity. With better systems and tools, like QarboGrow™, I believe we can produce healthier and safer agricultural products for everyone.
