Pepper on living poles of Gliricidia sepium and Erythrina lithospermun in East Kalimantan

Pepper vines in East Kalimantan usually are planted on dead ironwood (Eusideroxylon zwageri Tejis. and Binn.) poles as a support. In other places in Indonesia, pepper is planted on living poles, mostly on Gliricidia sepium. Gliricidia is widely used for shade and fencing in the lower and middle Mahakam area of East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Properties of Gliricidia and other species are evaluated according to general and East Kalimantan conditions, and Gliricidia can be recommended as a good choice. Research compared the growth of pepper on living poles of Gliricidia sepium and Erythrina lithosperma and on dead ironwood holes. No significant differences were found that would indicate disadvantages when using living poles. On-farm trials with transmigrants were established on their land and are monitored in the framework of university research. Observations indicate that most farmers will still use dead poles when enlarging their gardens, as the success of the new technology is evident only after several years. It is assumed that farmers will use this new technology more when ironwood becomes too difficult to obtain.