Epidemi Penyakit Karat Daun Kopi (Hemileia vastatrix B. & Br.) pada Tanaman Kopi Arabika di Sumatera Utara dan Aceh

Abstract

Coffee has long been a point of pride in Indonesian agriculture, particularly in the regions of North Sumatra and Aceh. With its distinct aroma, coffee has become a popular beverage enjoyed by people of all ages. However, coffee cultivation frequently encounters issues, particularly with coffee leaf rust disease caused by the fungus Hemileia vastatrix, which is especially prevalent in highland areas with cool and humid conditions. This research was conducted from July to December 2023 across three locations: two in North Sumatra (Sipirok Subdistrict, South Tapanuli Regency, and Siborongborong Subdistrict, North Tapanuli Regency) and one in Aceh (Bandar Subdistrict, Bener Meriah Regency). The study consisted of three phases. In the first phase, the cultivation patterns of Arabica coffee in North Sumatra and Aceh were analyzed using a survey method. The findings revealed differences in cultivation practices across study locations and the presence of H. vastatrix infections. The second phase investigated the epidemiology of coffee leaf rust. The results showed that wind speed significantly influenced the disease, with the highest severity recorded in Sipirok Subdistrict at 37.47%, and disease incidence at 80.59%. The third phase focused on forecasting the spread of coffee leaf rust, with the objective of understanding disease trends over time. Using the quadratic method, disease severity was recorded every ten days over three months. The results of the exponential equation modeling for Sipirok Subdistrict were y = 3.9691e 0.3726x with R² = 0.9987; for Siborongborong Subdistrict y = 2.7028e 0.4335x with R² = 0.9984; and for Bandar Subdistrict y = 1.0973e 0.4359x with R² = 0.993. This study significantly contributes to the understanding of cultivation dynamics and disease challenges faced by Arabica coffee farmers. By identifying differences in cultivation practices and correlating them with disease incidence, as well as understanding the impact of weather conditions on disease spread, the research provides informed recommendations for disease mitigation and management. The forecasting models developed offer valuable insights for farmers and stakeholders to anticipate and manage this disease effectively to minimize economic losses. This research also opens avenues for further studies and innovative management strategies to enhance the resilience and productivity of coffee plants in the future, and to lay the groundwork for sustainable coffee industry development in the region.