Production of vegetables in Indonesia increased significantly during the period 1975-1985. This achievement may be attributed to the improvement of genetic materials through greater adaptability, resistance or tolerance to pests, more stable and higher yields and improved technology. Improvements in production systems have enhanced income potential for small vegetable growers.
In an effort to maximize the potential yielding ability of new varieties, seed production technology and seed flow system will be developed and implemented.
The future is promising and challenging. Efforts will be concentrated on the collection and utilization of a wider array of adaptive genetic materials for crop improvement. Pest management will be based on the best use of natural agents,
proper cropping systems, tolerant varieties, monitoring of insect populations and the use of chemicals which are not harmful to the environment and produce minimum contamination. Efficient import reduction in the case of seeds, wherever possible to allow profit maximization will be a major objective.
To ensure minimum loss and improved quality of produce, serious consideration must also be given to post-harvest technology development and adoption, especially proper handling of fresh vegetables.
To achieve sustainability, serious efforts must be made to promote vegetable production using adequate but not excessive inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides in order to minimize damage to the environment and yet still maintain profitability.