NATURAL FARMING
WITH
ORGANIC AND BIOLOGICAL
TECHNOLOGYWith HOC
2007
REX A. RIVERAAgronomist
30 Lapu-Lapu St., General Santos CityEmail: [email protected]
Website: www.freewebs.com/organicfarmphilTel: 083-301-0117
Mobile: 0905-22-2691
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INTRODUCTION
We can grow healthful food without depending too much on toxic chemicals and chemical fertilizers with NATURAL ORGANIC AND BIOLOGICAL FARMING systems. The knowledge and simple but practical technology in this manuscript can save your crops and help you earn more from your garden and farm. Let’s return to the “Natural” ways. The growing market demand is for safe organically grown fruits and vegetables.
It is not the intention of this paper to entirely eliminate the use of beneficial agricultural chemicals and fertilizers that help to suppress and control destructive pest and diseases and provide food nutrients to the plants. We also encourage the adoption of the latest improved technology and farming systems that are environmentally and ecologically friendly. We encourage farmers to adopt practical Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
This paper will attempt to help and teach interested farmers adopt natural and practical farming systems that will reduce the use of costly and toxic agricultural chemicals and replace them with organic preparations the farmers themselves can produce and use. This can result to producing healthful organic food at lower cost with higher productivity as the soil and environment improves. This may be debatable, but possible and attainable.
There is a worldwide shift for safe, chemical free food and a demand for organically grown food crops. The alarming increase in the use of toxic chemicals to control pests and diseases on both farm animals and plants has endangered the environment and reduce bio diversity as well as the health of consumers. We become too dependent like addicted people as the soil becomes poorer and insect pest become resistant to chemicals used.
The world that we have created is dominated by a disregard for Nature and a greed that destroys for profit the environment, the ecosystem and the capacity of the land to produce without artificial human interventions.
Useful insects and predators of pests are killed together with the insect pests with the wide and intensive use of toxic agricultural chemicals. The surviving pest finds no natural enemies, thus they increase rapidly resulting in more destructive infestation with more resistant pest to chemical control. We have to recognize the natural laws, governing and balance of nature, its biodiversity and life itself.
These simplified guides can help farmers reduce their production cost and become self reliant with renewable crop protection products they can grow and formulate in their own farms, together with their commercial crops and livestock.
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They can also make their own fertilizers and soil amendments that will turn their land into productive farms. This can make farmers self reliant and self sustaining
Through Natural Farming, we can feed the increasing population of the world with healthful food free from toxic chemical residue.
NATURAL FARMING
To understand natural farming we need to know the cycle of life and matter. Natural farming as we envision is learning nature’s laws, and using them with care. Take note: Natural Laws are the laws of God who created Nature.
Natural farming is a culture where plants are grown in 100% natural environment with the least human interference and no harmful chemicals or synthetic products used. It is practically leaving the crops grow and produce in their natural environment, and man comes enhances the natural conditions to improve productivity. Then, harvest or gather its products for man’s use. However, in the context of our discussion, we will be introducing farming systems that will employ and apply more and more organic and biological farm practices.
Dr. Saturnina Halos, an agricultural scientist says: “Strictly speaking, farming interferes with nature. There are a lot of human interventions in farming.” This is very true, and if we are not careful enough, we may totally lost natures’ resources and capacity to produce the food that our growing population needs. We seek to learn natural organic and biological farming to safeguard the environment and sustain its productive capability.
While there is a growing demand for organically grown fruits and vegetables, it is difficult and almost impossible not to use chemical products to increase the production per unit area in a shorter period of time to meet the growing food demand of the increasing population. Besides plant roots and leaves can only absorb nutrients in their chemical form. Organic materials have first to be broken down into its basic chemical component to be utilized by plants. Synthetic chemical products being used in Agriculture were processed and synthesized from organic and/or mineral materials.
Before life was created, matter first existed. In the beginning we have water, rocks, gases, light, solar energy, the earth and atmosphere. There was yet no life. (Read the Holy Scriptures ‘The Holy Bible’ Genesis on Creation). When the environment became ready, life began to appear in many forms from single cell to the complex form of plants and animals. We learn that evolution is God’s continuing process of creation.
Matter on the other hand is never lost, it just change in form and substance from solid to liquid and gas and back to solid. From its mineral chemical form to organic compound and back to mineral and chemical.
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(Remember man that thou art dust and unto dust thou shall return.). Roots absorb nutrient in simple chemical form decomposed organic compounds have to be converted to chemical form and are absorbed by plants.
Evolution as science discovers, life started in the waters in single cell microorganisms in animal and plant form. In ages and millennium the seed of life developed into higher forms as we see them today. Together with life or biological progression, weathering of the environment prepared the development of ecological diversity. So even at our time, we witness the continuing process of creation and evolution of new varieties and forms of life.
Man with his God given intellect is an instrument in the development through the science of breeding and lately genetic engineering and cloning. Man’s technological advances are still following natural laws, which without that, it will be impossible.
If we observe the growth and vegetation of natural forests, we will notice the healthy growth of trees, shrubs, grass and other forest vegetation. The soil is fertile, rich in organic humus and there is very limited pest and disease damage. Animal life, also abound from microorganisms like bacteria, fungus to worms, reptiles, birds and mammals.
The plants and animals have grown in their natural environment without interference of man. They may not be as productive as we wish them to be, but we can learn from their growth, survival and production in their natural habitat. Ecological and biological diversity can be observed existing and living in harmony.
The soil is kept fertile with the leaves, branches and other plant parts that mature and drop to the soil surface are decomposed with the aid of bacteria, fungi and other minute organisms that eat and digest them up with moisture (water). This results to the buildup of humus and organic fertilizer, which break down into simple chemical form rich in readily available plant nutrients for roots to absorb.
Beneficial microorganisms abound in the fertile organic rich soil that help both in the decomposition of organic materials and suppress or control the spread and multiplication of pests and diseases. Probiotics or beneficial microorganisms help suppress and control the growth of disease causing microbes (bacteria, fungus and virus) and even soil born pests like nematodes and insects.
Insect pests are kept down as both destructive and friendly insects are balancing their population in their natural habitat. This control the buildup of insect infestation is a continued process when left to their natural estate. Example of these are: the use of Trichogramma
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ostriniae against corn corer and Braconidae or Braconid Wasps which parasitize other arthropods. Braconid wasps can be endo- or ecto-parasite, solitary or living in groups as primary or secondary parasites. Different species may attack every stage of an insect development; there are braconids that are egg parasites, larval parasites, and parasites of pupae and adult insects. Many parasites are valuable as biological control of pests.
Big and tall trees protect the soil and other living organisms beneath from too much heat and inclement weather conditions. Soil erosion and depletion is minimized or totally prevented. Trees serve as umbrella in forest and natural habitat. Tree planting in certain sections of the farm is advisable and encouraged. Keep and grow spots of mini forest in your farm to preserve and protect the environment and eco system for the habitation of bio diversity.
The environment is preserved as bio-diversity is protected in natural forest vegetation where man has not set its foot on. All of creation and living things have a purpose and role. Herbal and medicinal plants have been destroyed and eliminated with the past century of clearing and cultivating lands for agriculture and crop production.
Zero tillage is propagating plants without the artificial means of cultivation. Plants and seeds are spread by growth of rhizomes, vines, carried by wind, water and birds. Modern natural farming systems can learn much from nature’s way of propagating and preserving its species even without the usual land clearing and land preparation involving digging, plowing and harrowing.
Following is a farming practice by ancient farmers up to the 50s where the land is made to rest for a year or two to allow nature to rejuvenate it and enrich the soil fertility and productive capacity. Resting the soil for one year after six years of crop production. Today, this is less practiced due to the limited farming areas. Farmlands are chopped down by CARP into small lots 3 hectares and smaller. Farmers need to make them produce continually without resting, so artificial methods are done to keep it producing using chemical and organic fertilizers.
To adopt natural farming system, we have to understand how the ecosystem responds to man’s interventions. The moment we clear the land, remove the protective trees and cultivate the soil, we have destroyed the natural environment and the existing eco-system and bio-diversity. The lesser we destroy or remove the natural environment; the closer we get into natural farming.
However, we can gradually return to natural ways by learning the natural laws governing plant and animal propagation, growth and production.
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-
Herbal Organic Concentrate Pride product of Mindanao, Philippines
For Natural Organic Farming
HERBAL ORGANIC SPRAY has been formulated by chemist for easy use of farmers practicing organic farming without using synthetic toxic chemicals that pose danger to man and environment. HOC, is environment friendly, safe to use and not harmful to man and animals.
HOC (Herbal Organic Concentrate) is prepared from 100% herbal organic extracts and marine products for Total Plant Care. It is use for Natural Organic and Biological Farming and improves crop production. We have several formulations to meet specific requirements and need of plants. These are: (HOC – GO, - ST, - 3n1 and 4n1)
The solution contains the essential plant food nutrients both macro and micro elements.HOC is basically a foliar fertilizer with added properties as pest repellent, insecticide and fungicide. It can also be applied as drench on soil at the base of plants and root zone. It helps control nematodes and other soil borne pests and diseases.
Another added feature of HOC is it also contains amino acid that enhances plant growth and beneficial microorganism that helps enrich the soil and fight pests and diseases. HOC - can replace many toxic chemicals used in conventional farming. It is environment friendly.
CROPS: Plants found to respond well with HOC are rice, corn, vegetables, banana, papaya, fruit trees, mango, durian, orchids, ornamental flowering plants and seedlings.
DOSAGE: Mix 1-2 tablespoon per gallon of clean water or 4-8 tablespoon per 16 liters knapsack sprayer, or 1 liter per 200 liter dram. One liter is enough to cover one hectare of rice, corn, vegetables and short row crops.
SPRAY FREQUENCY: Intervals of 3-7 days during critical stage of growth (flushing, flowering, fruiting), 15-30 days for maintenance, vegetative growth and rejuvenation.
BEST SPRAYING: Shake well HOC before mixing with water. Adjust your spray nuzzle to fine mist for leaves, flower and fruits and fine for trunk, branches and the soil surrounding the base or root zone.. It is advisable to spray the soil, trunk, branches and foliage of the crop for total coverage and maximum efficacy.
STORAGE AND HANDLING: HOC is an organic compound with live beneficial microorganism. It is best to store it in clean, dry, dark and cool place away form exposure to heat and light. Keep cap loose in storage and tighten in handling and transport. Keep away from reach of children.Contact:
REX A. RIVERAAGRONOMIST Stocks available upon order11 Magsaysay Avenue, General Santos City
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HOC
Email: [email protected]. No. 083-301-0117 Mobile: 0905-242-2691
Analysis of HOC-4n1 (Herbal Organic Concentrate)
Total Nitrogen (N) 0.12%Total Phosphoric Acid (P2O5) 0.86%Total Ptoassium Oxide (K2O) 0.29%Total Magnesium (Mg) 0.02%Total Calcium (Ca) 0.05%pH 3.70Copper (Cu) ppm TraceZinc (Zn) ppm 15 ppmIron (Fe) ppm 69 ppmManganese (Mn) ppm Trace
Date Finished: May 30, 2008Laboratory No. Sp A 103490Analysed by: Dr. Edilberta A del Mundo PhDNoted by: Dominador C. Diza Reg. Chief
Analysis conducted at the SOILS LABORATORY,DA-RFU-12, Bangoy St., Davao City.
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Schedule of HOC Spraying(Shake well HOC before mixing with water)
RICE1. Seedling stage in seedbed2. 15-30-60 days after planting or
broadcasting.3. During booting (flowering) stage4. During grain formation period.
CORN1. Soak seeds in HOC (1% solution)2. 15-30 days after planting3. During tussling (flowering) stage4. During grain formation period.
VEGETABLES1. 5-7 days after planting2. Weekly spray during growth,
flowering and fruit development.3. Drench the soil once a month.
ASPARAGUS1. Spray at 7-15 days interval2. Drench whole plant and soil after
pruning and every 30 days.
ORNAMENTAL GARDEN PLANTS1. Spray once a week2. Drench plant and soil once a month.
ROOT CROPS – PEANUTES, POTATO
1. Spray at 15-30 days interval2. Drench soil every 60 days.
COFFEE - CACAO1. Spray 15 -30 days interval during
maintenance (vegetative growth).2. During flowering and fruit dev.3. Drench plant and soil every 60 days
FRUIT TREES1. Spray at 15 days after planting2. 15-30 days interval for maintenance3. During flowering and fruit dev.4. Drench trunk and soil every 60 days
BANANA1. Spray 15 days after planting2. 15-30 days interval for maintenance3. Flower bud injection4. Drench stem and soil every 60 days
DURIAN – MANGOSTEEN – LANZONES - RAMBUTAN
1. Spray 15 days after planting2. 15-30 days interval for maintenance3. During flowering and fruit dev.4. Drench stem and soil every 60 days
MANGO1. Spray at 15 days after planting2. 30 days interval.for maintenance3. During Flower induction4. Spray at 7-14-20-DAFI - Flowering5. 40-60-90 DAFI.- Fruit development
PAPAYA1. At seedling stage2. 15-30 days interval during growth
and fruiting period.3. Drench stem and soil every 60 days
POMELO – CALAMANSI1. Spray at seedling stage2. 15 days after planting3. 30 days interval at maintenance period4. During Flowering and fruit dev.5. Drench trees and soil every 60 days
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===================================================Herbal Organic Concentrate (HOC) Users
The following have tried and used HOC as spray to their plants and found it good and enhance total plant care, protection against a wide range of pest and diseases and gave general vigor, health and productivity of their crops.
1. Mr. George Lim, a farmer businessman in Glan, Sarangani Province. He used HOC on his banana, and found it enhance the growth and productivity of his crop, clean and free from pest infestation and disease. His comment is “Maganda ang HOC, payamanin ka niyan”. Mobile: 0921-790-3464
2. FPA Coordinator of Sarangani Province. She used sample given her on her garden. Her comment “Maganda ang HOC, epektibo sa tanim. Puede natin iparegister yan sa FPA”.
3. Mr. Daimler Flores of Makati City. Used HOC on their family farm in Pampanga. They used it on their rice field. They found it enhance the growth and productivity of the palay, with less infestation. When the migratory birds came to their town, the birds landed on adjoining rice fields but avoided the area sprayed with HOC. (Mobile: 0917-791-8058)
4. Mr. Benjamin Roy, Executive Director of MINFRUIT. Brought HOC to Pomelo Farmers at Matalam, Cotabato Province. After a year, some pomelo growers are looking for HOC for their upcoming crop. They found it effective and enhance production of their trees. (Mobile: 0906-287-0093)
5. Email received from Philip Ang of Davao City Sept. 24, 2007. Mobile: 0918-000-0230. “Report from our trial at Nazaire Farm, Davao, Harvested 3out of 10 bunches banana using HOC as bud injection. No insect damage seen so far.” (0920-961-5110)
6. Mr. Rolly Tejada a Banana Specialist and Consultant have tested and use HOC on banana both as spray for foliar fertilizer, pest and disease control. It has also been used as bud injection to protect developing fruits from infestation. He is introducing HOC to lakatan banana growers in Kidapawan and Makilala, Cotabato
7. Mr. Arman Aquino Agriculturist, researcher, organic inspector and consultant tested HOC on corn. Now LIMKETKAI is using HOC in their more than 100 hectares corn plantation at Malaybalay Bukidnon. This may expand to another 200 hectares. (Mobile: 0917-421-8570)
8. Mr. Benjamin Figueroa, President of Malungon Mango Growers Association used HOC on his Mango plantation. He found it effective and good. (Mobile: 0918-426-9977)
9. Mr. Bert Allaga, Municipal Agriculturist ot Malungon, Sarangani Province have tried HOC on his fruit trees and found it helped him make the plants healthier and more productive, He now is a repeated user. (Mobile: 0906-824-8508)
10. Miss Lina Adoracion is a retired teacher and an organic growing farmer. She uses HOC on her organic rice, vegetables and fruit trees. Besides being effective, it is organic and much lower cost compared to toxic chemicals use to spray plants. (Mobile: 0928-732-7730)
Many others have tested and used HOC in their gardens, vegetables, orchids, grains, fruit trees and plantation crops. We find HOC a very good alternative and substitute to Chemical sprays used in conventional farming introduced by multi-nationals supplying farmers with their synthetic products since 1950 to the present. But EO-481 Promoting Organic Farming all over the Philippines will make HOC a partner in organic farming. LGUs are now promoting Organic Farming.
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HERBAL ORGANIC SPRAY
A new product for Natural Farming. Grow organic fruits and vegetables with natural herbs, organic and biological safe materials.
HERBAL ORGANIC SPRAY has been formulated for the easy and convenient use. Farmers’ who would like to produce organically grown food crops including fruits and vegetables without resorting to synthetic toxic chemicals that post danger to man and environment can use Herbal Organic Spray instead.
HOC (Herbal Organic Concentrate) and HOP (Herbal Organic Powder) were specially prepared by chemist and developed through research and efficacy test on farmer's field conditions. They were found to be effective pest repellant, insecticide, fungicide and growth inducer and EM (Effective Microorganism) or BMO (Beneficial Microorganisms) with a simultaneous and broad-spectrum effect.
The compound was developed using several tropical herbs with repellant, insecticide and fungicidal substances gathered from cultured and wild plants. Added to the compound is fish/fruit amino acid (FAA) which provides plant growth nutrients as a foliar fertilizer. It likewise contains trace mineral substances essential to normal and healthy plant growth derived from seaweed and other herbal and organic components.
DOSAGE:
1-2 tbsp. per gallon of water, or 250-500 ml per 100 liters water and one half to one liter HOC per 200 liter drum of water. Complete spray coverage from soil, stem branches and leaves for effective result. You may lower the dose concentration for sensitive plants with young shoots to 1tbsp. per 10 litters of water. Watering and drenching small plant may also be done once a week or once a moth for rejuvenating trees..
HOP TEA SPRAY (Herbal Organic Powder) Soak 500 grams Herbal Organic Powder (HOP) in 20 liters water overnight and squeeze to extract more substance. Mix the 20 liters tea to 200 liters water and spray to plants. Complete spray coverage from soil, stem, branches and leaves for effective result. Watering and drenching small plants, vegetables and ornamentals may be done every 5-7 days interval.
SPRAY FREQUENCY: Spray 3-7 days interval during critical stages of growth, flushing, flowering and fruit development. Weekly spraying of vegetables to keep them healthy and free from pest and diseases. Every 15 – 30 days during rejuvenation or juvenile growth. See schedule of spraying for specific crops and plants.
For more information, contact REX A. RIVERA, Agronomist / Agricultural Consultant 11 Magsaysay Avenue, General Santos City, PhilippinesEmail: [email protected] Website: www.freewebs.com/organicfarmphilTelex 083-301-011 Mobile:0905-242-2691
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=============================================Herbal Organic Concentrate (HOC) Schedule of Spraying
RICE:
1. The critical stages of growth for rice for HOC treatments are:
2. Soak germinated palay seed with 1% HOC-4n1 before broadcasting
3. Seedling stage – drench the seedbed upon seeding, spray at 7 days and soak uprooted seedlings in 1% HOC-4n1 solution before transplanting.
4. Spray young plants at 7, 15 and 30 days after field planting.
5. Spray at booting stage and grain formation.
CORN:
1. Recommended HOC treatment for corn:
2. Wet corn seed with 1% HOC before planting.
3. Spray entire plant from the soil, stalks and leaves
4. Spray at 7, 15 and 30 days from planting to flowering.
5. Spray at tassel and grain development.
VEGETABLES:
1. General recommendations for vegetables:
2. Seedlings – drench the seedbed with 1% HOC at planting and weekly up to transplanting.
3. Spray weekly during plant growth and fruit production.
4. For fruiting vegetables, spray at 7 to 14 days interval.
FRUIT TREES:
1. General recommendation 2. Drenching seedlings and small trees.3. Cultivate the soil around the base of
the trunk every three months then fertilize with organic compost and drench with a 1% HOC-3n1 solution to control soil born pests and diseases including termites.
4. Sanitize trees once a moth by spraying the whole tree from soil, trunk or stem branches and leaves and control termites, soil born pests
MANGO:
1. Recommended HOC treatment for mango:
2. Spray trees once a month up to one month before scheduled flower induction.
3. After flower induction, spray at 7, 15, 20, 45, 60, 70 and 90 DAFI.
4. Cultivate the soil around the base of the tree every 3 months and drench with a 1% HOC-4n1 solution to control soil born pest and diseases including termites.
PAPAYA & BANANA:
1. Papaya and banana are favored host of scales and sucking insects that are vectors of virus diseases. When spraying Banana and papaya, start with the surrounding soil at the base, then the trunk , leaves, flowers and fruits.
2. Clean culture, cultivate the soil surrounding the trunk and drench/spray with HOC once a month to control most soil born pest and diseases.
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3. Soak seedlings and planting materials in 1% HOC before field planting.
4. Spray HOC-4n1 every 15 days or once a month as the weather condition, disease and infestation level dictates.
ORNAMENTAL GARDEN PLANTS
1. General recommendations:
2. Periodic spray at least once a week or twice a month.
3. However certain garden plants may need more or less frequent application.
4. Spraying or drenching the whole plant and soil or growth medium will give better result of protection and growth enhancement.
POMELO ORANGES CALAMANSI
1. These trees are susceptible to a wide range of pest and diseases.
2. Sanitize. Prune and remove diseased, infested branches, fruits and droppings and carry all debris to the composting area.
3. Then drench the soil around the trunk with 1% HOC-4n1 solution to control soil born pests and diseases including termites.
4. Spraying the whole tree from soil, trunk or stem branches and leaves once a month. However, more frequent spraying during critical stages of growth at weekly interval may be needed.
PEANUTES, POTATO, YAM ANDOTHER ROOT CROPS:
1. Root crops usually are harvested in 90 to 120 days. Spraying HOC will not only enhance their growth but will likewise protect them from sucking insects and rot. It iimportant that the soil is well drained and sanitized. Drenching the soil with HOC along the furrow immediately at the plant root zone will help control soil-born pest
2. Soak seeds and planting materials in 1% HOC-4n1 solution before planting.
3. Spray 0.5% HOC-4n1 at 15 days interval when the seed germinate up to harvest.
4. After a rainy day, the next dry day, spray HOC-4n1.
LANZONES:
1. This tree is infested with maggots the bores and eat up the bark beneath the surface. Serious infestation greatly reduces yield or prevents fruiting. Sanitizing the tree by scraping the infested bark and drenching with HOC-3n1 with periodic follow-up with a weekly then monthly HOC-4n1 spraying will help control the pest and improve the health and production of the trees.
2. Drench the trunk, branches and soil immediately at the base with 1% HOC-3n1 after scraping off the diseases and infested bark.
3. Follow-up weekly spraying of HOC-4n1 for 4 consecutive weeks.
4. Maintenance spraying once a month with HOC-4n1 during rejuvenation period.
5. Spray during flowering period and fruit development every 15 days. This will protect the fruits from pest and grow bigger, juicy and sweeter.
CACAO:
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1. This is a special high value beverage and confectionery crop that is infested by fruit fly, sucking insects and rot. Periodic HOC spraying will not only protect the tree from pest and diseases, but will likewise increase its productivity with HOC.
2. Clean and sanitize the tree and its environment. Remove all diseased and infested branches and fruits in the tree. Carry off all debris and fallen fruits to a composting area. Weed, cultivate and fertilize with organic compost. Then drench with 1% HOC-3n1.
3. Spray 0.5% HOC-4n1 weekly for 5 consecutive weeks.
4. Maintenance spraying once a month will help repel and prevent new infestation and infection.
DURIAN:1. This exotic fruit tree is a forest plant
that needs companion trees and partly shaded. It is susceptible to Pytopthora disease. Fruit borers are also a big cause of losses. HOC applied at the right time will greatly help control and stop the damage cause by these diseases and pest. Practice clean culture, where fruit drops should immediately be removed from the field, buried or burned to prevent borers from making them breeding place.
2. Schedule of application:
3. Cultivate and drench the soil around the trunk. Spray trunk and branches with 1% HOC. Spread HOP on the soil to control rot and insect pest in the soil and tree.
4. Spray the whole tree with HOC-4n1 at the initiation of flowering and during fruit development at 15 days interval
5. Maintenance spraying trees and drench soil at base once a month with HOC-4n1 during rejuvenation period.
ASPARAGUS1. Growing Asparagus spears need a
well drained soil with adequate moisture and rich in organic humus fertilizer.
2. Asparagus is infested with mites and several insect pests and fungal rot where HOC can greatly help grow a healthy and productive crop with weekly spraying and drenching of HOC-4n1.
3. Cultivate the soil and drench with HOC or HOP-3n1 at once a month.
4. Spray the whole plants once a week with HOC-4n1. plus HOC-GO
SUGARCANE
1.Dench sugacane point with 1% HOC befor planting.
2.Spray at 15, 30 and 45 days interval. Drench the soil to leaves for faster growth, pest repellent and disease control as maintenance. Preferably spray during cloudy days or late in the afternoon, so the beneficial microorganism in HOC will not be killed by intense heat and dryness. It is recommended to add on kilo molasses to every 200 liter dram water to serve as food for the beneficial microorganisms for faster multiplication and soil enhancement.
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HOCHERBAL ORGANIC CONCENTRATE
Our Research and Development (R&D) have developed several formulations of Herbal Organic Concentrate (HOC) for plant care and protection because of the different specific requirement of crops and plantation needs. We have some of our HOC formulations:
1. HOC-GO This formulation is an organic foliar fertilizer. It contains natural amino acid and trace plant nutrient elements essential for healthy plant growth and production. It is a combination of extracts from herbs and marine products. 1. 2. HOC-3n1 This formulation contains pest repellant property with BMO (Beneficial Microorganism). This formulation is intended for periodic monthly spray to reduce or prevent infestation.
2. HOC-4n1 This formulation contain several herbal extracts and BMO. It has a broad spectrum field of action as foliar fertilizer, pest repellant, insecticide, fungicide and beneficial microorganism to counter pathogens and enhance the resistance and tolerance of plants against certain pests, diseases and environmental stresses.
3. HOC-ST This formulation is specifically prepared for banana and papaya plantations. It is intended to protect and enhance the healthy development of fruits with or without bagging. It also help control nematodes as drench in soil.
1. Please take note that all the above formulations are under farmer’s field tests and confirmation of their performance. Scientific trials are also being conducted for FPA registration.
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GENERAL RECOMMENDATION
1. Adopt clean culture and proper planting distance. Prune plants to remove crowded branches, diseased and infested leaves.
2. Adopt periodic weeding, cultivation and removal of debris and properly disposed burned, buried or composted. Gather and remove fallen fruits.
3. Application of organic fertilizers on regular basis as 2 to 4 times a year.4. Irrigate or water plants when dry or before wilting of leaves occur.5. Drench or spray plant at regular interval with Herbal Organic Concentrates (HOC)
such as weekly or monthly. 6. Encourage and allow biodiversity in your farm to balance the ecosystem in the
environment. Adopt multi cropping, crop rotation and following or resting.7. As much as possible, do not use toxic chemicals that will destroy the balance
of bio-ecology in the environment and post hazard to the health of man & animals.
8. Harvest with out delay fruits and crops when they reach right maturity. OK
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=================================================================== MALACAÑANGManilaBY THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINESEXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 481 PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES
WHEREAS, it is a declared policy of the State to promote agriculture development, conserve environmental resources and promote social equity and product access to foreign and domestic markets of agriculture and fishery commodities;
WHEREAS, the development of Organic Agriculture nationwide as a farming scheme enhances global competitiveness, environmental integrity, food security and safety, and increases productivity and alleviate poverty;
WHEREAS, the State recognizes the potential of Organic Agriculture in increasing value-added in agricultural export and local consumption products;
WHEREAS, the stakeholders have recognized the potential of certified organic farming as a way to lower input costs, utilization of local raw material inputs, conserve non-renewable resources, mainstream into high-value markets and improve farm income;
WHEREAS, the stakeholders of Organic Agriculture have manifested their strong interest to aggressively promote organic agriculture with support from the government on the research, development and extension activities.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, President of the Republic of the Philippines, by the virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and existing laws, do hereby order:
Section 1. Declaration of Objectives – This Executive Order shall have the following objectives: (a) promote organic agriculture as a farming scheme especially in rural farming communities;
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(b) forge effective networking and collaboration with the stakeholders involved in the production, handling, processing and marketing of organic agriculture products;(c) guarantee food and environmental safety by means of an ecological approach to farming; and(d) ensure the integrity of organic products through the approved organic certification procedures and organic production, handling and processing standards.
Section 2. The National Organic Agriculture Program (NOAP). – The Department of Agriculture National Organic Agriculture Program shall focus on , but not limited to: (a) Regulations and Guidelines (b) Certification and Accreditation(c) Market Promotion and Networking(d) Organic Information for Producers, Handlers and Processors(e) Research, Development and Extension Section 3. The National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB). – There is hereby constituted the National Organic Agriculture Board, hereinafter referred to as the NOAB. The NOAB shall be composed of the following: (a) The Secretary of the Department of Agriculture as Chairperson; (b) The Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry as Vice-Chair; (c) The Secretary of the Department of Health as Vice-Chair; (d) The Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government; (e) The Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources; and (f) The Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology.
There shall be appointed to the NAOB seven (7) representatives engaged in the practice of organic agriculture. Such representatives may be taken from, but not limited to the recommended sectors listed below: (a) Three from the private sector who operate an organic farm; organic handling and processing; and establishment with significant trade in organic products; (b) Two from the NGO/PO who represents public interest or consumer interest; (c) One from organic certifying body as identified under Section 6 of this E.O.; (d) One from the academe with expertise in areas of environmental protection and resource conservation, toxicology and biochemistry.
A member of the Board shall serve for a term of 3 years. A member cannot serve consecutive terms unless such member served an original term that was less than 3 years.
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A National Technical Committee (NTC) shall be created as an implementing arm of the policies, programs and projects identified and approved by the Board. It shall be drawn from the Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Land Reform, representative from the private sector and civil society.
The Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards (BAFPS) of the Department of Agriculture shall serve as the Technical and Administrative Secretariat of the Board and the NTC with the member agencies providing additional staff support as the need arises.
Section 4. Functions, Duties and Responsibilities of the NOAB and the NTC – The NOAB shall have the following function, duties and responsibilities: (a) Formulate policies, plans, programs and projects to promote and develop Organic Agriculture; (b) Oversee the successful implementation of the Organic Agriculture programs and projects; (c) Call upon any government agency to carry out and implement programs and projects identified by the Board; (d) Call upon private sectors, people’s organizations (Pos) and non-government organizations. (NGOs), and the academe to provide advise on matters pertaining to organic agriculture; (e) Identify sources of financing to expand organic agriculture; and (f) Submit annual and other periodic reports to the Office of the President.
The National Technical Committee shall: (a) Implement Organic Agriculture programs and projects approved by the Board; (b) Update the Board on the status of the programs, projects and activities undertaken for the promotion and development of organic agriculture; (c) Forge effective networking with the various stakeholders involved in organic production; and (d) Perform such other functions, duties and responsibilities as may be necessary to implement this Executive Order.
Section 5. Compliance Requirements for Organic Standards. – Adoption of the Philippine National Standard for Organic Agriculture (PNS/BAFPS) 07:2003 ICS.65.020) specifically listed in ANNEX “A” shall be mandatory throughout the country for the sectors involved in the production and marketing organic agriculture products.
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Section 6. Organic Accreditation. – The Department of Agriculture through Administrative Order 13 Series of 2003 listed in ANNEX “B”, otherwise known as the “Guidelines in the Accreditation of Certifying Bodies for Standards on Organic Agriculture” shall accredit certifying bodies as prescribed in the guidelines.
Section 7. Labeling of Organic Produced Products. – In addition to the requirements for labeling of organic products, commodities, goods and merchandise pursuant to PNS/BAFPS 07:2003 ICS.65.020 listed in ANNEX “A”, the products, commodities, goods and merchandise must contain contents prescribed in this Executive Order.
Section 8. Research, Development and Extension. – The DA, DOST, SCUs and other appropriate agencies such as but not limited to scientific/professional organizations and research institutions shall develop, enhance, support and consolidate activities and related technologies to protect the environment and improve organic matter depleted agricultural soils, reduce cost of production, improve product quality and increase value-added for global competitiveness of Organic Produce.
Section 9. Appropriations. – The Department of Agriculture shall allocate from its present budget such amount not less than Five Million Pesos (P5,000,000.00) may be taken from the Presidential Social Fund for the initial year of implementation of the program. Thereafter, the Department of Agriculture shall include and appropriate amount in the General Appropriations Act following its enactment and every year thereafter.
Section 10. Implementing Guidelines. – The Board, within ninety (90) working days in consultation with other agencies and stakeholders concerned shall formulate the implementing rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of this Executive Order.
Section 11 Separability Clause.- If any of the provisions of the Executive Order is declared invalid, the remainder shall remain operative.
Section 12. Effectivity. – This Executive Order shall take effect immediately after publication in a newspaper or general circulation.
DONE, in the City of Manila, on this 27thday of December, in the year of our Lord twenty hundred and five.
By the President: Gloria M. Arroyo EDUARDO R. EMITA Executive Secretary
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Definition of Terms ===========================================================For the purposes of this Executive Order, the following definitions of terms shall apply: Agricultural inputs – all substances or materials used in the production or handling of organic agricultural products Agricultural products – any agricultural community or product, whether raw or processed, including any commodity or product derived from livestock for human or livestock on consumption Certified operation – a crop or livestock production, wild-crop harvesting or handling operation, or portion of such operation that is certified by an accredited certifying agent such as utilizing a system of organic production. Conventional agriculture – farming systems dependent on the input of artificial fertilizers and/or pesticides or failing to conform to the Philippine National Standards in any other way. Farm unit – an agricultural area or production managed organically, which a farmer or a-group owns or in any other way is responsible for Label – a display or written, printed, or graphic material on the immediate container of an agricultural product or any such material affixed to a bulk container containing an agricultural product, except for package liners or a display of written, printed, or graphic material which contains only information about the weight of the product. Labeling – any written, printed, or graphic presentation that is present on the label of a product accompanies the product or displayed near the product. Livestock – any cattle, sheep, goat, swine, poultry, or equine animals used for food or in the production of food, fiber, feed, or other agricultural-based consumer products; wild or domesticated game; or other non-plant life, except such term shall not include aquatic animals for the production of food, fiber, feed, or other agricultural-based consumer products. Organic – in this text the word refers to the particular farming and processing systems described in these standards and not in the classical Chemical sense (The latter shall be clearly marked with a + for ease of identification). The term Organic is nearly synonymous in other languages to “Biological” or “ecological”. “Organic” is also a labeling term that denotes products according to organic standards. Organic Agriculture – “includes all agricultural systems that promote the environmentally, socially and economically sound production of food and fibers. These systems take local soil fertility as a key to successful production. By respecting the natural capacity of plants, animals and the landscape it aims to optimize quality in all aspects of agriculture and the environment. Organic agriculture dramatically reduces external inputs by refraining from the use of chemo-synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and pharmaceuticals. Instead it allows the powerful laws of nature to increase both agricultural yields and disease resistance. “ Definition of IFOAM (International Federation of Agricultural Movements). Standards – are norms, sets of guidelines, requirements and principles that are used as in organic agricultural and processing. The term “standards”, as used here refers to Philippine National Standards relevant to local agroecosystems production. Restricted inputs – inputs for which there are conditions for the use imposed by the certification program.
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Natural Organic and Biological Farming By: Rex A. Rivera
Agronomist
Organic farming is a form of agriculture which avoids or largely excludes the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, plant growth regulators, and livestock feed additives. As far as possible, organic farmers rely on crop rotation, crop residues, animal manures and mechanical cultivation to maintain soil productivity and tilth (soil texture) to supply plant nutrients, and to control weeds, insects and other pests and diseases (pathogens).
According to the International Organic Farming Organization IFOAM, "The role of organic agriculture, whether in farming, processing, distribution, or consumption, is to
sustain and enhance the health of ecosystems and organisms from the smallest in the soil to human beings."
IPM – Integrated Pest ManagementThis is the use of many control strategies such as:
1. Cultural Control – Existing farm practices such as a. Proper cultivation b. Crop planting pattern (scheduled planting with specific period, so pest will be
minimized as they will not have continues host after crop harvest.) c. Knowing the life cycle of specific insect pest (ex. Corn borer are prevalent in
later part of May to July start of the rainy season)d. Crop rotation (pest of one crop does not necessarily infest the succeeding crops.e. Light trapping or attractants.f. Planting resistant and tolerant varieties.g. Zero Cultivation and Other practices.
2. Botanical Control – Any plant or herbs with insecticidal properties, repellant and attractants such as ginger, tubtuba (Jathropa), panyawan, siling labuyo, tubli, tobacco etc.
3. Biological Control – Using of parasite, predators, pathogens, bacteria, and viruses. Such as:
a. Parasites – Trichogramma (egg parasite) extensively used for corn borers, rice stem borer, durian borer, rind borer of pommelo, diamond back moth of cabbages and any un-hairy soft eggs of Lepidophtera. Brachonids (a larval parasite).
b. Predators – Voracious insect feeds who eat up other insect hosts like Pirate Bugs, Ladybird beetles, Lacewings, Spiders, Dragonfly and others.
c. Pathogens – These are fungus that control other pathogens that cause diseases like Muscardus fungi.
d. Bacteria – Beneficial bacteria that control bacterial diseases and other insect pests such as Bacillus thorengensis (Bt).
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e. Viruses – Beneficial virus that control other desease causing virus and other insects such as NPV _ Neoclopoly Hydrosis virus. (currently used by Marsman Drysdel at Polomolok, South Cotabato to protect Asparagus against cutworm and beetles that also infest bulb onions at San Jose, Gensan.
4. Chemical Control – The use of different chemical pesticide when there is an outbreak of any pest. (Note: avoid using chemical control when there is no outbreak with critical damage below etc – Economic Threshold level to prevent development of insect resistance to the chemicals).
Specific uses:a. Insects Insecticideb. Fungus Fungicidec. Weeds Herbicided. Virus Viruscidee. Bacteria Bactericidef. Rats Rodenticideh. Humans Homicide (Suicide)
Use correct control based on target pest. Avoid using broad spectrum chemicals.
Why use beneficial insects?
Although Chemical Pesticides are widely used in many Agricultural Systems, the complete reliance on Chemicals is no longer a feasible approach to pest control for the following reasons:
ResistanceThe major advantage which continue to errod the effectiveness of conventional insecticides is tha ability of the pests to develop resistance. Approximately 500 insects and related pests (mites) have shown resistance. In fact some cannot be controlled with today’s chemical arsenal.
Secondary Pest ProblemEven chemicals which are effective against pests often kill or interfere with the beneficial insects and other organisms. The situation created then slows an insect (not the usual pest, but another insect taking advantage of the available food) to rapidly increase in number since no problem are in the field to prevent the population explosion. Sometimes the resulting (long term and economic) damage is greater by the secondary pest than by the pest originally targeted. (This is now happening with the growing Mango Industry in Mindanao where persistent chemical spraying against mango hoppers, created a new infestation of capsid bugs and cecid fly which were not a treat before.)
EconomicsThe combination of resistance, secondary pests and limitations brought about brought about by safety and environmental concern has increased the cost of insecticides. Also, a matter of economics to commercial producers is the demand for pesticide-free food (large supermarket chains are advertising independent testing of their produce in response to consumer pressure.)
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The solution is to optimize, and maximize, insect control:
1. Identify the pest – not all insects are pest!2. Establish a correct level of acceptable damage – not all pests are of economic importance.3. Monitor the pest situation on a regular basis; sometimes no control is required.4. If the pest population is high enough to cause economic damage, use all available,
acceptable means of control, including cultural, biological, mechanical, and natural botanical (Herbal) pesticides.
5. Regular releases of commercially available beneficial insects (as a preventive and control measure) is now part of “conventional” farming IPM and should be considered and properly implemented.
6. Record results to use in future strategy – preventive measures require planning ahead..
Controlling Pest without Chemicals:
Biological control of insects in agriculture is more effective than widely known and yields a return on investment 100-1000% in the first year – Brief Article – USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education, June, 1997.
A survey examining the success of biological control of insects in agriculture concludes that this natural approach to pest containment is far more effective than often appreciated and should be more widely used. Several case studies explored by researchers at Oregon State University, Corvallis, found that biological pest control can solve problems effectively on a long-term basis and may yield a return on investment of 100-1000% in the first year alone, after which the benefits go up in perpetuity.
“In these specific cases, we were surprised at the degree of success of bio-control, how widespread and quickly it worked, how cost effective it was,” indicates M.T. Ali Niazee, professor of entomology. Based on this, there is no doubt in my mind that bio-control should be more heavily exploited.”
In an agricultural world riddled with insect pests, biological control most often is the use of an insect parasitoid, predator, or pathogen to eliminate the destructive plant pest and disease.
Summary:
With Natural farming using herbs, organic and biological components; farming can be self sustaining, lower production cost, improve soil texture and fertility, increase land productivity, protect and enhances the healthful environment and produce food crops safe and healthful to consumers.
WE INVITE YOU TO GROW NATURAL ORGANIC AND HEALTHFUL FOOD CROPS
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TAKING CARE OF YOUR SOIL THE NATURAL WAYS
Several researches have found that declining crop yield is related to the loss of soil quality. Soils are threatened by water and wind erosion, Stalinization, and nutrient depletion, chemical interference that kills microbiological soil born organisms and other things.
Soil depletion is causing sever impact on agriculture like what is now happening in the Philippines. We are just now waking up to the growing magnitude of soil depletion in most agricultural lands using conventional farming, heavily dependent on chemical fertilization, herbal, pest and disease control. The Ecological Society of the Philippines headed by its president Antonio M. Claparols is very much concerned on the deteriorating soil condition of the country.
Global warming makes things worse. As the ground heat up, organic matter decomposes more rapidly, reducing soil fertility, releasing carbon dioxide which increases the warming effects. High priority for soil restoration through carbon sequestration or storing carbon in the soil securely so that it is not easily re-emitted through soil conservation and incorporation of organic fertilizers.
Composts are natural fertilizers that supply soils with vital plant nutrients helping to retain water and air. It restores soil structure, soil carbon anti-biotic activity. Compost or organic fertilizers improves soil texture, helps to control weeds, pest and diseases.
The prices of commercial chemical fertilizers price are skyrocketing, beyond the purchasing power of the marginal farmers. Attention is now focused on teaching and encouraging farmers and entrepreneurs to invest on the production of organic fertilizers.
Organic fertilizers can easily be made by farmers from readily available materials such as plant leaves and residues, animal waste and other biodegradable substances. They do not have to buy or get credit to make their own fertilizer and soil conditioners. Soil fertility and health can also be restored with resting the soil for a year or two, green manure, incorporating crop residue with soil during land preparation or cultivation, and planting of trees along farm boarders and banks of waterways.
The Philippines is among the 17 most bio-diverse countries in the world. Part of the Philippines treasure is the large forest trees which are rapidly vanishing. Trees are contributing to the ecological balance as they help clean the air and conserve water. One hectare of forest is needed to supply the fresh nitrogen needed by 40 persons.
Trees and wild vegetation are not only needed in the countryside and farming areas, but more so in communities and urban areas where population density is high. Urban gardens and soils can be improved by growing trees and using organic compost fertilizers.
USE OF ORGANIC COMPOST FERTILIZER AND BIO MICRO INOCULANTS
Organic compost fertilizer is the closest we can return to natural farming. The emerging farming system is towards the use of organic fertilizer in combination with chemical fertilizer.
There are now available in the market several Pro-biotic like BYM and Tricograma that helps hasten the breakdown and decomposition of organic cellulous materials to convert them into organic fertilizer.
Simple way of preparing organic compost:
The old practice is the sandwich type where different organic materials or waste are pilled layer after layer like plant residue + animal waste + soil and repeat the process until reaching a meter high. Keep it moist and insert a bamboo with ventilated holes to aerate until the material decomposes. Then mix the material and keep it moist until totally decomposed. Aerate and expose to sunlight before applying as fertilizer.
The new practice is chopping or hammer-milling the organic materials then spraying pro-biotic to the mass keep it moist and cover with plastic sheet to avoid dehydration. Mix the mass at least once a week. With sufficient digester (microorganism or pro-biotic) it will take less than a month to convert organic materials into ready to use fertilizer.
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Mixing a combination of different organic materials both plant and animal source will insure a more complete nutrient content of the organic fertilizer. Pro-biotic spray or inoculation of the compost will present destructive and undesirable microorganisms to grow. The odor becomes pleasant.
COMPOST
Composting, essentially a rapid self heating process by which organic material is decomposed and stabilized, was practiced by ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans and is even mentioned in religious texts. During the past 20 years, this time honored practice has developed into a robust waste-management technology that generates valuable organic soil amendments.
Biological treatment technologies may be either aerobic or anaerobic. Aerobic systems use oxygen, but anaerobic ones don’t. Both may use heat to fuel the reactions that break down organic matter in manure. In composting, heat is generated by microbes that digest organic matter. After decomposition, it will be good to sanitize the organic compound by drying or exposing it to sunlight for a day or two.
“Nutrient stabilization in composted manure allows soil microbes and plants to use the nutrients in a slow-release and beneficial manner. Compost may even help reduce demand for nitrogen in certain crops.” Says Patricia Miller of the Environmental Microbial Safety Laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland
Composting is one of several technologies used to treat animal manure, sewage sludge, and other organic residuals, which may contain pathogens or parasites of public health concern. In any manure slurry system, solid can be composted. Liquids can be further processed to stabilize nitrogen and phosphorus in soluble forms compatible with current nutrient-management requirements.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR OWN LACTO BASILLAI
LACTO BASILLAI is one of the beneficial microorganisms called pro-biotic. It helps in the breaking down of cellulose fibers and converts organic materials into humus and fertilizer. Producing your own stock of lacto bacilli can easily by do using the following procedure:
1. Use rice wash or finely grounded grain preferably brown rice mix in water.2. Place in a wide plastic basin and cover loosely to allow ventilation.3. Allow it to ferment for 7 days. Bacteria including lacto bacilli in air will infect solution.4. Strain liquid and place in bigger plastic container.5. Add 10 parts milk (skim, powdered, condensed or fresh) Milk is best feed for lacto bacilli will multiply
rapidly and overgrow other bacteria in solution. .6. Cover loosely to allow ventilation and ferment for another one week.7. The flotsam consisting of fats, carbohydrate and protein contain lacto bacilli.8. Scoop the flotsam and mix with food or feed materials. A yellow colored liquid will form containing a great
concentration of lacto bacilli.9. Store in refrigeration or room temperature. 10. Mix liquid in equal quantity of rough brown sugar, moscovado or molasses.11. Mix stock solution in 20 parts water. Use to be with compost materials.12. Dosage: Use 2-4 tbs. per gallon water and spray to plants.
Soil structure is easy to improve with compost. Organic matter is the most important source of plant nutrients contributing to the fertility of the soil. Compost material sustains healthy plant growth by providing food for both living microorganisms, speeding up their multiplication and absorption of the roots. Organic matter ha also dual role that helps water move through the soil and at the same time improve the soil’s water holding capacity. Unlike depleted soils of organic matter, soils rich in humus retain a good surface and do not crust or clod after heavy rains. Aeration is good in humus rich soils and this important factor means root growth is good. Organic matter also acts as storage for nutrients, increases cat ion exchange capacity and acts as a regulator for nutrients, so they are not all releases at one time.
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HOW TO MAKE COMPOSTThe sandwich method:
a. Organic materials such as animal waste, plant waste and topsoil are placed in layers one on top of the other until they reach a high of 3 feet.
b. The material is watered moist and covered with coconut leaves or plastic sheet in order that moisture will be retained.
c. Mix the compost pill after two weeks, moist and cover again.d. Repeat mixing once a week, until the compost materials are totally decompose with the appearance of soil.e. Dry in direct sunlight to kill or eliminate unwanted microorganisms such as fungus and bacteria.f. The material is now ready for use or placed in sacks for storage or shipment.
Biological fast composting:
a. Gather the organic material, chop or hammer mill and mix thoroughly.b. Water them moist with pro-biotic microorganism (lactobacilli or trichoderma) mixed in the water.b. Cover the compost pile with plastic sheet.c. Mix the material every week.d. It will usually take only 4 weeks to totally decompose the material with the aid of the microorganisms that help
digest the cellulose materials.e. Sundry the decomposed organic material (fertilizer) to kill unwanted microorganisms.f. The material is now ready for use or bagging for storage or shipment.
Field composting:
a. After harvest and just before plowing and land preparation, gather the organic materials, chop or hammer mill. b. Spread the materials evenly in the field. In case the plant waste residues are in the field, then step a. will not be
necessary.c. Spray the organic material in the field with pro-biotic microorganism.d. Plow and disk-harrow the field to mix the organic material with the soil.e. If possible do the above operation just before an expected rain or irrigate the field after the plowing of cultivation.
This will allow the microorganism to work fast, and multiply. In the process, digesting the organic material into organic fertilizer or soil amendment.
Note that the pro-biotic organisms will continue working in the soil, as long as favorable conditions like adequate soil moisture and presence of organic materials.
Steps in composting with wild sunflower:
1. Look for a suitable area, partly or fully shaded.2. Gather compost materials such as rice straw, animal manure, and other farm waste. 3. Collect wild sunflower and chop the young stem and leaves into small pieces.4. Stick a bamboo with holes to serve as ventilator of the compost pile.5. Pile crops residue and farm waste in the following sequence: rice straw, sunflower, manure, soil and repeat the
layering. Proportion: 2-3 parts fresh sunflower, 1 part rice straw, 2 parts manure and 1 part soil.6. Water the pile until thoroughly wet.7. Cover pile with leaves, sack or plastic sheet to minimize evaporation.8. Check the moisture every 2 days, and wet in case compost dry up. 9. Check also the temperature. If it is warm, then decomposition is taking place.10. After 3 to 4 weeks, check the compose pile and if it has turn into soil humus physical form it is most likely ripe.11. In case the compose will not immediately be used, air dry before placing into sacks or in a shady dry place.
Farmers are encouraged to implement simple and inexpensive ways of producing organic fertilizers through the use of indigenous technology. They may adopt other methods of composting by using other materials and plant waste available in their respective farms.
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VEMICOMPOSTING
VERMICOMPOSTING is composting plant materials with worms. The advantage of vermin-composting to that of the usual conventional compost pile is that the process is faster and the resulting organic soil is richer in certain nutrients provided by the earthworms themselves. It is rich in humic acid, which is a growth promoting.
African Night Crawler (Eudrilis eugeniae) earthworm is incredible eaters and will eat and expel their own weight every day when conditions are right. It takes 60 days or less for fresh organic waste to be converted into compost fertilizer. Our native earthworm may also be employed.
Steps in Vermi-composting:
1. Have a shed for the composting site to protect the worms from direct sunlight and from torrential rains to be able to do their work undisturbed. The worms need a good living condition, dimly lit area to live in with enough moisture.
2. Construct a storage area for digested compost before it is screened and bagged.
3. Construct the compost bed for worms to digest with concrete hollow blocks three blocks high with a depth of 30-45 cm. 1 meter wide by 2 meters long or longer. Be sure that the soil bed is well drained under the composting bed. The worms will not escape into the soil if there is available food to digest.
4. Use a shredder or hammer mill to crush the organic materials into small particles easy to decompose and eaten by the earthworms. Good food: They need 25% nitrogen from legumes like Madre de cacao and ipil-ipil leaves, chicken droppings and cattle dung, etc. and 75% carbon source like grasses, rice and corn stalks, cogon and sugarcane tops.
5. Mixing old animal manure and chicken droppings (2 months old) with shredded vegetable waste will improve the nutrient content of the finish product. Do not use fresh manure for the ammonia produced will give discomfort to the worms.
6. Water the bed from time to time to keep them moist but not flooded so as not to drown the worms.
7. Fence off or screen in the beds to keep out chickens, birds, rodents and other pest that will eat or bother the worms in the wormer.
8. Mix a little ordinary soil to the fresh shredded vegetable materials before introducing the worms.
9. Place one kilogram of worms per square meter for fast composting. 10-20 pieces may do to start with but it will take longer time to compost while the worms breed to increase their number. A kilo of worms are sold for P500 and they breed fast in two months.
10. Inoculating and spraying the compost materials with pro-biotic bacteria will help fast tract decomposition and the worms to digest the compost in much shorter time.
11. When the compost is digested, the worms become less active. It is time to herd them to another compartment with fresh food materials. As they leave, the digested compost is ready for harvest and transferred to the stocking or holding area for screening, drying and packing.
12. Harvesting will be easier by allowing the bed with completely digested compost material to dry up so the worms will move to the next compartment with moisture and fresh shredded vegetable food materials.
13. Screen the material with ¼ inch mesh before weighing and bagging for sale. 50 kilo bag humus is sold for P150 to P300 to gardeners. If you use it in your own farm, there is no need of screening. (Note: Commercial imported chemical fertilizer today prices have gone over P600 per 50 kilo bag)
The worm’s feces are called vermin-casting or humus. Compost takes 2-3 months to decompose, while shredded materials fed to worms takes only 15-21 days.
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Advantages of Vermicomposting:1. Environment friendly. The use of organic fertilizer, vermin-casting of humus is one, revives the soil fertility level
and brings back life to soil environment, improves soil texture and improves water holding capacity.2. Economical. Investment on vermicomposting is only about P2.00 per kilo while commercial chemical fertilizer
cost P8-15 per kilo.3. Higher Crop Yield. Humus has shown its potency in inducing higher crop yield for a longer period. Vermi-casting
humus is found to be more effective compared to ordinary compost and chemical fertilizers.4. Market Potential is Very Big. Organically grown food crops are increasing in market demand. Organic fertilizer
has likewise increased in use as imported commercial fertilizer have been increasing its prices.5. No imported inputs required. Farmers can make their own organic fertilizer from farm waste materials. This
means no dependence on imports and oil price fluctuations.6. Healthful. Organic farming is considered as healthful way of growing food crops.7. Lesser risk. Producing your own fertilizer will make you unaffected by exchange rates and fluctuation changes in
the prices of other commodities. There is less or no risk at all producing your own fertilizer and even selling excess requirement of your own farm.
8. Undemanding laborers. The worms themselves them selves are the workers converting farm waste materials into organic plant food nutrients.
9. Big savings. Producing your own fertilizer is a big savings and cost cutting for the farmers. 10. Income-earner. This technology can help farmers earn more from their farm waste
MAGGOT COMPOSTING
Instead of using earthworm, a simple natural process has been discovered in fast composting. A mixture of sawdust and chicken or quail droppings are placed in a compost pile covered with shed. The maggots eat up the cellulose in a few weeks instead of several months. To prevent the maggots to complete its cycle to adult flies, chickens are allowed to scratch and peak the growing maggots, a source of animal protein. Spraying or drenching the compost pile with pro-biotic microorganisms (beneficial bacteria and fungi) will help hasten decomposition and prevent foul odor.
SLUDGE FERTILIZER
Liquid sewage sludge being disposed as communal waste contain essential elements needed by crops, making it a potential organic fertilizer and soil conditioner for sugarcane farms, corn fields, rice lands and even fruit orchards and vegetable gardens.
In a research conducted by Luzon Agricultural Research and Extension Center (LAREC) of the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) in cooperation with Manila Water Company, Inc., the use of liquid sewage sludge for agricultural purposes was assessed to determine its effects on the growth and yield of sugarcane. The study was conducted at LAREC R&D Farm at Florida Blanca, Pampanga.
It was confirmed the application of liquid sewage sludge in the barren sandy lahars deposits of Florida Blanca, Pampanga the soil became richer and sustain healthy and productive sugar cane, compared with untreated field.
COMPOSTING CROP RESIDUE IN THE FIELD
Rice and corn are among the traditional crops grown by Filipino farmers. As the usual practice is removing the debris and burn them to clear the land and cultivate for next planting. Tones of organic materials are wasted and lost.
Organic farmers spread rice straw and corn cubs back to the field immediately after harvest. They are sprayed with beneficial microorganisms or pro-biotic or bacteria and plowed under. In 4 weeks, they are decomposed and the field is ready for land preparation for new planting.
This practice is also being started with big pineapple and banana plantations in Mindanao. Some sugarcane planters found the benefit of composting cane residue in the field instead of the usual practice of burning after harvest then cultivating and fertilizing. Field composting of crop residue help retain and improve soil fertility, at the start reduces the use of chemical fertilizer to the time that no more synthetic fertilizer is needed.
Coconut trees and other fruit trees have lots of leaves, bracts, twigs, flowers and fruits that fall to the grown. When these materials are allowed to decompose beneath the trees, they turn into humus and fertilizer to the trees. Unfortunately, because of clean culture, they are removed and burned. Teaching the farmers to return the crop residue to the soil from where they came from will both enrich the soil and sustain productivity of the trees without relying solely on chemical or synthetic fertilizers.
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GREEN MANURING
Green manuring is the is the planting of seasonal crops usually legumes like beans and plowing them under at their tender age during flowering and early fruiting when they are rich in nutrients. Plowing under weeds and grasses, allowing them to decompose is also green manuring. Spraying them with pro-biotic will hasten their decomposition. These practices have long been done by farmers’ century back, until commercial chemical fertilizers have been introduced to the market.
COVER CROPPINGCover cropping is the growing of low crawling plants usually leguminous vines like centrocema pubisence and
kudzu to protect the soil surface from water erosion, prevent the growth of noxious weeds and help increase soil fertility. These are grown beneath fruit trees and taller crops.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN SUGARFrom Coconut Toddy (Tuba)
Materials:
Sugar cane juice or fresh coconut juice (tuba)Big cooking stainless steel basin Wooden mixing ladleStove and fuel
Procedure:
Press fresh sugarcane to extract juice - 08.0% sucrose content Or gather fresh coconut juice (tuba) - 16.8% sucrose contentPlace in the cooking basin Boil to dehydrateMix continuously until totally dry and dehydrated with wooden ladle.Place the dehydrated brown sugar (moscovado) in clean dry containers.Ready for storage and use.
Uses:
May be used for food, food preparation and processingFeed additive for poultry and livestockFor bioorganic preparations and additive.
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HOW TO MAKE VIRGINE COCONUT OIL
Processing virgin coconut oil right in your own home and kitchen is very easy and simple.Grit the meat of freshly opened mature coconut.Pour a little water and mush the greeted coconut meat.Press to extract the coconut milk.Let the milk stay overnight or for 10 to 12 hours. The water will settle down the container and the oil will float.Drain out the water.Heat the oil in stainless steel kettle in 45 to 70 degrees temperature for 15
to 30 minutes to remove and evaporate remaining water in the oil. Better heat oil in double kettle where the first has water in direct contact with fire and the other with oil inside the casserole with heated water.
Place the virgin coconut oil in bottle and seal.Store in room temperature away from sunlight.
Another way of preserving virgin oil is by freezing instead of heating. Virgin coconut oil is used for various purposes. It is used for medication, beauty and body skin ointment, cooking oil, lubricant, fuel, etc. It does not get rancid when the right procedure is done.
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