Cultivo de abacaxi (Ananas Comosus (L.) Merr.) por pequenos produtores no povoado Barraquinha na Cidade de Lago dos Rodrigues - MA: Potencial sustentável e perspectivas

Abstract

This study investigated the cultivation of pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.) by family farmers in the community of Barraquinha, located in the municipality of Lago dos Rodrigues – MA, focusing on the identification of sustainable practices and the challenges faced in production. The research was conducted through interviews with 14 active local producers. Structured questionnaires were used to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. The results indicate that agricultural knowledge is predominantly acquired informally, with low participation in technical training. Among the observed practices, manual weed control stands out, carried out mainly through hoeing as a low-cost alternative for managing weeds between the rows of pineapple plants. Although techniques such as this and crop rotation are adopted, intensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides was observed. Most producers reported difficulties such as lack of technical assistance, insufficient machinery, and the perception that sustainable practices involve high implementation costs. Nevertheless, all expressed interest in adopting more appropriate management techniques, provided that they are supported by incentives and guidance.