| dc.description.abstract | Honey is one of the non-timber forest products (NTFPs) that holds high economic,
ecological, and social value, where its production success is strongly influenced by
the availability of forage resources in the form of nectar and pollen from flowering
plants. This study aims to identify the types of plants producing nectar and pollen
as honey bee forage and to develop a flowering calendar in Ronggur Nihuta
Village, Ronggur Nihuta District, Samosir Regency. The research methods
employed were field observations within a 900-meter radius from the beekeeping
site, interviews with landowners, and literature review to strengthen the data. The
results revealed 33 plant species with potential as honey bee forage, consisting of
16 tree species, 8 shrub species, 8 herbaceous species, and 1 parasitic species.
Based on the flowering calendar, 19 species were found to bloom throughout the
year, 9 species bloom seasonally, and 5 species bloom irregularly. The diversity of
species and variation in flowering periods ensure a continuous supply of honey bee
forage throughout the year, thereby supporting the sustainability of beekeeping in
the study area. In addition to providing economic benefits through honey and other
bee products, the presence of honey bees also contributes to ecological services by
enhancing pollination of agricultural and forestry plants. Thus, the findings of this
study can serve as a scientific basis for the development of community-based
beekeeping, the strengthening of social forestry, and the sustainable management
of non-timber forest products. | en_US |
