Implementation of Hydroponic Innovation (Wick System) to Support Food Security in Tagangser Laok

Penerapan Inovasi Hidroponik (Wick System) dalam Upaya Ketahanan Pangan di Desa Tagangser Laok

Abstract

Food security is a strategic issue in rural development, particularly in addressing limited land availability and low household agricultural productivity. This program was implemented in Tagangser Laok Village to initiate the application of a wick-system hydroponic approach as an innovative solution for optimizing narrow land spaces into sources of household food self-sufficiency. The wick system was selected due to its low cost, simplicity, and the absence of electricity requirements, making it highly suitable for rural communities. The activities were carried out through an educational and participatory approach, including socialization, hands-on training, and intensive mentoring for community members, especially women from the Family Welfare Empowerment Group (PKK). The results demonstrated a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge and practical skills, with 85% of participants successfully constructing independent hydroponic installations and initiating the cultivation of vegetables such as spinach (Amaranthus spp.) and water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica) for daily consumption. In addition to enhancing household food security, the program also increased awareness of environmentally friendly agricultural practices. The broader implementation of hydroponic systems has the potential to create new economic opportunities and can be replicated as a food security model in other rural areas. Therefore, simple innovations such as the wick-system hydroponic method can drive adaptive, sustainable, and competitive transformations in rural agriculture.