AN ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF CULTIVATION TECHNOLOGY ON THE PRODUCTIVITY OF SMALLHOLDER OIL PALM PLANTATION

Abstract

The productivity of smallholder oil palm plantations in Indonesia remains lower than that of large-scale estates, primarily due to the limited adoption of cultivation technologies. This study aims to analyze the relationship between technological application and productivity improvements in smallholder plantations through a systematic review of ten national and international scientific articles. The technologies reviewed include the 5T fertilization method, pollination using Elaeidobius kamerunicus via the hatch & carry system, and ecologically based landscape conservation. The findings indicate that these technologies generally have a positive impact on fresh fruit bunch (FFB) weight, harvesting efficiency, and farmers’ technical awareness. However, significant challenges persist in the social and institutional domains, such as lack of training, limited field assistance, and restricted access to information and capital. The study recommends that technology development strategies be integrated with participatory and adaptive approaches to support the sustainable development of smallholder oil palm plantations.