OPTIMALISASI PEMANFAATAN DAUN PEPAYA SEBAGAI BAHAN PESTISIDA NABATI MELALUI PROGRAM PENYULUHAN PARSIPATIF DI DESA SERBA JADI

Abstract

Plant pest and disease are one of the main obstacles in agricultural production, which have been controlled using chemical pesticides. Excessive use of chemical pesticides has the potential to cause negative impacts on the environment, human health, and the sustainability of agricultural systems. With the increasing need for environmentally friendly agricultural technology, the use of plant-based pesticides from local resources has become a relevant alternative. Papaya leaves (Carica papaya L.) are known to contain bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and papain enzymes that have the potential to control plant pest and disease. This community service activity aims to increase farmers' knowledge and skills in utilizing papaya leaves as botanical pesticides through a participatory extension approach in Serba Jadi Village, Serdang Bedagai Regency. The implementation methods included initial coordination with village stakeholders, a preliminary PRA-based survey, dialogic extension, practical training in making plant-based pesticides using a learning-by-doing approach, and direct application in the field. The results of the activity showed an increase in the community's understanding of the concept of organic pesticides and the risks of using synthetic pesticides. Farmers were able to independently produce papaya leaf botanical pesticides using simple equipment and local resources. Field application showed a decrease in pest attack intensity, especially on horticultural crops, without causing phytotoxic symptoms. This activity proved that participatory extension is effective in empowering the community and supporting the implementation of sustainable agricultural technology based on local wisdom.