LEARNING MODULE

NOTRE DAME OF MASIAG, INC.

SY 2020-2021

Organic Fertilizer
Grade 12
First Semester

Name ______________________________________

Section ______________________________________

Subject Teacher ______________________________________

Class Adviser ______________________________________

FOR PRIVATE USE

in the Notre Dame of Masiag, Inc.
Strictly not for Public Circulation
 Foreword to Parents and Students

Welcome to Notre Dame of Masiag, Inc. Modular Learning Modality for school year 2020-2021. This
Module was prepared for use in the Archdiocesan Notre Dame Schools of Cotabato (ANDSC) system. Whenever
necessary and appropriate, the Subject Teacher made some revisions in order to best suit the needs of your
particular school.
This set of Modules will be used with an accompanying official textbook available for sale or rental from
the school. For the schools that do not use a textbook, the subject teacher will provide another set of texts or
excerpts that will serve as Substitute of the textbook, which is called Appendix Text. On a regular basis, the
student will be directed to do some activities in his/her Activity/Assessment Notebook. Make sure you have these
3 sets of Materials for your classes: 1) Modules; 2) Textbook or Appendix Texts; and 3) Activity/Assessment
Notebook.
For our Blended Learning, the school will use online technologies to support our Modular Learning
Delivery: the use of online classrooms, links, video presentations, social media, emails, live calls, webinars, etc.
Furthermore, the students are highly encouraged to find supplementary ways of learning like reading materials,
multimedia, online resources, and the aid of the people in the homes. It goes without saying that the parents are
the best partners of the school in the education of their children. Now, more than ever, your children need your
support in the delivery of learning.
We are hopeful that despite its few disadvantages, this new approach to education will yield the most for
our students. We also hope that this pandemic will soon end and we can see you face to face. At the beginning of
this school year, may I introduce to you the Vision-Mission and Core Values to be adapted by all the ANDSC
schools starting this school year 2020-2021. Our Module Designers have tried their best to incorporate these
treasures in the Modules.

Thank you for choosing Notre Dame.

Rev. Fr. Arnold L. Fuentes, DCC
Director/Superintendent

VISION STATEMENT

Notre Dame of Masiag, Inc., a member of the Archdiocesan Notre Dame Schools of Cotabato, providing quality
education rooted in the gospel values and Marian ideals, envisions to be a center of excellence in the holistic development
of human persons, equipped with knowledge and life-enriching skills who are successful and responsible citizens
contributing to the transformation of society.
MISSION STATEMENT

We commit ourselves to provide innovative programs for dynamic learning experiences in a safe and conducive
environment; foster a culture of peace, understanding and solidarity; develop leadership and exercise social responsibility;
participate in nation building and promote love for country; and collaborate with the local church in its mission of
evangelization.
CORE VALUES – N.O.T.R.E. D.A.M.E.

N Noble A Notre Damean demonstrates high moral principles that embody nobility of character
especially honesty and integrity.
O Obedient A Notre Damean exemplifies fidelity to God and loyalty to country; follows school
policies, rules and regulations; and practices desirable family values.
T Transformed A Notre Damean displays positive disposition in life and an acceptable level of self-
confidence and maturity, and shows capacity for teamwork, collaboration and solidarity.
R Respectful A Notre Damean shows high esteem and regard to oneself, others, the community,
country, nature, environment, and other faiths and cultures.
E Enlightened A Notre Damean demonstrates academic excellence, critical and reflective thinking, and
guided by one’s conscience, makes good decisions and actions based on wise judgment.
D Disciplined A Notre Damean wills and obliges to do what is right and expected, and exercises self-
control in one’s dealings with the world and others.
A Accountable A Notre Damean displays commitment and responsibility in performing one’s tasks, and
shows leadership capacities and sense of volunteerism and initiative.
M Marian A Notre Damean emulates Mary’s virtues especially faith in God, generosity, humility,
prayerfulness, purity, simplicity, and service.
E Empathetic A Notre Damean shows sensitivity and understanding of the feelings, ideas, beliefs,
cultures, traditions, and experiences of others; and shows compassion, friendship,
kindness and love.
The following are some reminders in using this module:
1. Use the module with care. Do not put unnecessary mark/s on any part of the module. Use a
separate sheet of paper in answering the exercises.
2. Don’t forget to answer What I Know before moving on to the other activities included in the
module.
3. Read the instruction carefully before doing each task.
4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and checking your answers.
5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.
6. Return this module to your teacher/facilitator once you are through with it.
If you encounter any difficulty in answering the tasks in this module, do not hesitate to
consult your teacher or facilitator. Always bear in mind that you are not alone. We hope that
through this material, you will experience meaningful learning and gain deep understanding of the
relevant competencies. You can do it!

UNIT COMPETENCY : PRODUCE ORGANIC FERTILIZER

MODULE TITLE : PRODUCING ORGANIC FERTILIZER
UNIT CODE : AGR611301

UNIT DESCRIPTOR :
This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitude required to produce organic fertilizers
which include tasks such as preparing composting area and raw materials and carrying-out
composting activities and finally, harvesting fertilizer.

The hand is one of the most symbolized part of the human body. It is often used to depict
skill, action and purpose. Through our hands we may learn, create and accomplish. Hence, the hand
in this learning resource signifies that you as a learner is capable and empowered to successfully
achieve the relevant competencies and skills at your own pace and time. Your academic success
lies in your own hands!
This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities for guided
and independent learning at your own pace and time. You will be enabled to process the contents of
the learning resource while being an active learner.

What I Need to Know

This module was designed to help you achieve the required competency in Organic
Agriculture Production NC II. This will help you master the skills and techniques in producing
organic fertilizer. This will be the source of information for you to acquire knowledge and skills in
this particular competency independently at your own pace, with minimum supervision or help
from your instructor.
The module is divided into three lessons, namely:

LO 1 – Composting Methods
LO 2 – Processing and Harvesting of Compost Fertilizer
LO 3 - Record Keeping

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
 Site is selected based on compost fertilizer production requirements and
 Site lay-out is prepared based on location.
 Bed is prepared in accordance with production requirements
 Materials are gather based on production requirements and PNS for organic fertilizer
 Prepare raw materials following enterprise procedure and PNS for organic fertilizer
 Appropriate composting methods are applied based on production requirements
  Compost is monitored based PNS indicators of fully decomposed fertilizer
 Quality of harvest is checked based on PNS indicators of fully decomposed fertilizer
 Processing of compost fertilizers are carried- out based on production requirement.
 Record keeping is performed according to enterprise procedure.

What I Know
Direction: Read and understand the questions carefully. Write the letter of the correct answer in
your activity notebook.

1. Plants need food to nourish their parts. It refers to any organic or inorganic materials of natural
or synthetic origin which is added to the soil to supply certain elements essentials for plant
growth?
a. fertilizers b. macro elements c. macroelements d. trace elements
2. Which is not true about organic fertilizers? Organic fertilizers…
a. decomposed farm manures b. improve soil physical conditions
c. facilitate soil erosion d. retain soil humidity

3. What is the fertilizer that should be applied to the plant leaves?

a .Basal fertilizer b. Foliar fertilizer c. Complete fertilizer d. All of these

4. Which of the following is the source of organic fertilizer?

a. Animal wastes b. Crop waste c. Sea weeds d. All of these.

5. This food element is responsible for the greening of the plants.

a. Calcium b. Nitrogen c. Potassium d. All of these

6. Using night soil as fertilizer is allowed in our country.

a. Yes b. No c. Maybe d. Sometimes

7. Site for composting should have the following except:

a. Airy b. shady c. Water availability d. None of these

8. A process of composting without the presence of oxygen.

a. Anaerobic b. Aerobic c. Bokashi d. None of these

9. What is the specific worm recommended in vermicomposting?

a. African Night Crawler b. Earth worms c. Army worm d. none of the these

10. What is the black particles made from burned rice hull?
a. CRH b. IMO c.compost d. vermicast

Lesson
Composting Method
1

The lesson deals with Producing organic fertilizers and the composting methods.
Composting transforms raw organic residues into humus-like material through the activity of soil
microorganisms. Mature compost stores well and is biologically stable, free of unpleasant odors,
and easier to handle and less bulky than raw organic wastes. In agronomic and horticultural
operations, compost can be used as a soil amendment, seed starter, mulch, container mix ingredient,
or natural fertilizer, depending on its characteristics. Composting can also reduce or eliminate weed
seeds and plant pathogens in organic residues.
 What’s In
CROSSWORD: Cross out the word that are being referred by the statement below. Write your
answer in your activity notebook.
1. Any organic or inorganic substance that added to soil for plants growth.
2. It is the store house of plant nutrients.
3. It is the soil elements responsible for plant green color.
4. A method done by scattering the fertilizer uniformly on the soil.
5. A method of applying fertilizer through spraying the leaves.
6. A process of decaying nature/ biodegradable.
7. It is one of the characteristics of a composting area.
8. These are raw materials for composting includes animal manure.
9. These are compost materials that are brown and dry and high in carbon.
10. Compost materials that rich in nitrogen.

What’s New

Climate change is one of the most serious and pressing environment problems of our time.
Farms are significant contributor to climate change , largely through the release of carbon from
soils and the generation of methane gas from livestock and their manure.

Activity 1. How can we solve issues on climate change in relation to producing organic fertilizer?
Present your answer in any form . (Cause and Effect, Concept Map, Line Drawing , etc. Write
your answer on your activity notebook.

What is
It
Producing Organic Fertilizer
What makes fertilizer organic?
 The material is free of chemical substances
 There is presence of high organic matter
content
 Raw materials used are indigenous in the
locality
  Increases resistance to erosion, runoff and compaction
 Increases disease resistance in plants
 Promotes less vulnerability to pest and disease, in turn reducing pesticide use
 Increase soil diversity
Background
Aristotle called the earthworms the intestines of the earth. Charles Darwin
in 1881 in his treatise “The Formation of Vegetable Mound Through the
Action of Worms” said “It may be doubted whether there are any other
animals which have played so important a part in the history of the world as
have those lowly, organized creatures.”

Selecting Site
Worms are livestock and should be cared for in order that they may
be put to best use. As such, select a site that would be well above the flood
level, shaded, airy and where water and raw materials are easily available.
The temperature should be about 26 degrees Celsius.
Worms are living creatures which need to be cared for and protected.
They do not have skin and die when exposed to direct sunlight. The worm
beds/containers should be shaded where it is airy. Water and raw materials
are necessary and it follows that the project, to be successful should also include cost. If the water and the
raw materials will have to be brought in at considerable expense, the cost of production would increase and
impact on the viability of the project.
In summary, a good composting site has the following characteristics:

 Good drainage system

 Availability of water supply
 Proximity to the source of raw materials
 Accessibility of the composting site
 Area of minimum contamination
 Area with minimal sunlight

Compost
Compost is organic material that can be added to soil to help
plants grow. Food scraps and yard waste together currently make up
more than 28 percent of what we throw away, and should be
composted instead. Making compost keeps these materials out of
landfills where they take up space and release methane , a potent
greenhouse gas.

Composting Basics
All composting requires basic ingredients such as:
Browns - this includes materials such as dead leaves , branches and
twigs
Greens - this includes materials such as grass clippings, vegetables waste, fruit scraps, and coffee
grounds
Water – having the right amount of water, greens, and browns is important for compost
development.

Your compost pile should have an equal amount of browns to greens. You should also
alternate layers of organic materials of different – sized particles. The brown materials provide
carbon for your compost , the green materials provide nitrogen, and the water provides moisture to
help break down the organic matter.

Benefits of Composting
 Enriches soil, helping retain moisture and suppress plant diseases and pest.
 Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers
 Encourages the production of beneficial bacteria and fungi that break down organic matter
to create humus, a rich – nutrients – filled materials.
 Reduces methane emissions from Landfills and lower your carbon footprint.

Composting Methods

There are different methods of composting that can be followed, these are:
1. Sheet Composting
Sheet Composting is also known as sheet mulching, can be a great way to add organic
matter back into your soils. Essentially, this composting technique entails spreading thin layers of
organic materials. ( i. e. compost ingredients) on top of the soil surface. Some also consider this
technique to be “ composting in place.” Using green manure is another means of sheets
composting. This technique is often used on the large scale; however, it can also be done
successfully in your backyard.

2. In – Vessel Composting
In – vessel composting is becoming more and more popular with large – scale compost
producers. This method involves composting within an enclosed containment system, often a large
cylindrical – shape container. The equipment involved in setting up an in – vessel composting
system is typically quite expensive, and therefore usually limits it’s usage to industrial – sized
composting operation. There are numerous benefits of in-vessel composting, such as an increased
processing speed, year – round composting, and a highly controlled environment.

3. Anaerobic Composting
Anaerobic composting describes the biological breakdown of organic materials by living
anaerobic organisms. This may not be the most odor- rific composting method, but it can be quite
effective. Some of the benefits of composting anaerobically include the following: it is one of the
most basic means of producing compost; it can be done on a small scale; and typhically produces
more humus per unit of starting materials than most other composting methods.

4. Trench Composting
Trench composting involves digging holes in your garden soil and burying raw compost
ingredients. Some people swear by this method, whereas others want nothing to do with it.
Similar to anaerobic composting, this method of decomposition is quite simple; however, the
materials tend to take longer to breakdown than when using other composting techniques.

5. Bokashi Composting
Bokashi is a Japanese term meaning fermented organic matter. Therefore, bokashi
composting describes the making of compost via fermentation. To achieve optimal results, your
compost materials are inoculated with a microbial starter culture, and placed inside a sealed
container. These starter cultures consist of several different species of microorganisms, all of
which thrive in anaerobic conditions. One of the most popular microbial inoculants is called
Effective Microorganisms of EM.

6. Composting Barrels
 Composting Barrels, or compost tumblers, are a great composting technique for backyard
growers. They are self – contained , clean, and if big enough , can produce a fair amount of
compost in a short period.
You can buy composting barrels from a commercial supplier or you save your money and
make one yourself.

7. Vermicomposting

Composting is the process of converting organic materials like leaves and animal manure
into “ humus” an organic matter through decomposition by the action of microbes and other
organisms. Humus is rich in nutrients and contributes to soil texture and water retention.

Factors Affecting Composting Rate

Factors that affect microorganisms also affect the composting rate. The following should be
considered to ensure good quality compost.

1. Aeration . A continuous supply of oxygen is required to ensure rapid aerobic, thermophilic

composting. The compost biomass must contain at least 30% of for free space or porosity. The
microorganisms need oxygen for their aerobic metabolism and respiration. Likewise, oxygen helps
oxidize organic molecules or compounds in the material. This is why the pile is turned to allow
oxygen to enter the mass and expel the accumulated carbon dioxide generated by the
microorganisms.

2. Temperature. High temperature is good for speeding up composting and for killing the
pathogens. However, excessively high and prolonged high temperature retards decomposition
because only few species of thermophilic sporangial bacteria show metabolic activity at
temperature of more than 70%. The optimum temperature for refuse/ sludge mixtures composting
is between 45°C and 60°C. For rapid aerobic composting of organic materials, the optimum
temperature is 55°C- 65°C.

3. Moisture. The moisture content (MC) of the organic material must not be too high nor too low.
When the moisture is too low, the decomposition rate slows down; while the pile is physically
stable, it is biologically unstable. When MC is too high, the pores are clogged and aeration is
hampered. To maintain the MC, watering is needed. If the MC is above the optimum range,
supplement the pile with rice hull or saw dust, or add fermented compost.

4. Carbon: Nitrogen Ratio. Organism use carbon for their growth and energy and nitrogen for
protein synthesis during the decomposition. Thus, there should be proper balance of C and N if
decomposition is to proceed rapidly. Thus, it is important to adjust C:N ratio of the pile by mixing
the right kind of organic materials.

5. pH . The optimum pH for composting various mixtures of organic materials ranges from 5.0 to
9.0. Bacteria prefer a pH close to neutral while fungi develop better in acid environment. When
composting process begins, the pH decreases due to breakdown of complex carbonaceous
materials to organic acid intermediates by acid – forming bacteria.

CARBON (C)/NITROGEN (N) RATIO

For these complex processes to take place in a balanced way, it is important to feed the
microorganisms in the compost pile with both carbohydrates and proteins. So, materials for the
compost production have to be well chosen (green and brown colored). Other nutrients and
elements such as phosphorus and potassium are needed in the process as well.
 • “Browns.” Browns are compost materials that are brown and dry. Examples of which are sawdust,
dried leaves, straw and small twigs and others. “Browns” are high in carbon, which for microbes
are energy food.
• “Greens”. Greens are compost materials that are green and moist like kitchen wastes, grass
cuttings and the like. “Greens” are high in nitrogen, which microbes need to make proteins.
If you add about 3 parts of browns to 1 part of greens, then the compost organisms will have
a balanced diet.
To have an optimized compost production, the ideal ratio of carbon (C), and nitrogen (N) is
25-30:1. Too little carbon will result in nutrient loss; too much carbon will slow the process of
decomposition, and sometimes lead to low quality compost.
Equally important are sufficient moisture content and air to result in an aerobic decomposition. It
should not e lower than about 50%.
The environmental temperature will play an important role in defining the speed of
decomposition. Higher temperature speeds up the process, while low temperature slows it down.
Example of C/N Ratio calculation
Substrates Carbon % Nitrogen %
Rice straw (dried basis) 40 1
Fallen leaves(dried basis) 35 1
FM Laying chicken 20 3

Step 1. Compute the Carbon content

200 kgs Rice Straw X 0.4 =80
100 kgs Fallen leaves X 0.35 =35
50 kgs FM laying chicken X 0.2 =10
125%
Step 2. Compute the Nitrogen content

200 kgs Rice Straw X 0.01 =2

100 kgs Fallen leaves X 0.01 =1
50 kgs FM laying chicken X 0.03 =1.5
4.5%
Carbon = 125%
Nitrogen =4.5 %
=125/4.5 =27.78% carbon per 1 part of Nitrogen
Interpretation: So that, 27.78 results is in between on standards of C/N Ratio 25-30:1
W
W What’s More

MULTIPLE CHOICE. Choose the letter of the correct answer. Write your answer in your
activity notebook.
1. This method describe the biological breakdown of organic materials by living anaerobic
organisms.
a. Anaerobic Composting c. Vermicomposting
b. Trench Composting d. Sheet Composting

2. A Japanese term meaning fermented organic matter, a making of compost via fermentation.
a. Bokashi Composting c. Vermicomposting
b. Trench Composting d. Sheet Composting

3. A composting method which are self-contained, clean can produce a fair amount of compost in a
short period.
a. Composting Barrels c. Vermicomposting
b. Trench Composting d. Sheet Composting
4. This composting method involves digging of the holes in your garden soil and burying raw
compost ingredients.
a. pH c. Vermicomposting
b. Trench Composting d. Sheet Composting

5. Which is NOT a part of composting method?

a. pH composting c. Vermicomposting
b. Trench Composting d. Sheet Composting

6. It is also known as sheet mulching, it can be a great way to add organic matter back into your
waste.
a. pH c. Vermicomposting
b. Trench Composting d. Sheet Composting

7. The optimum temperature for refuse/ sludge composting is between ______ and ______.
a. 35°C & 40°C c. 45°C & 55°C
b. 35°C & 45°C d. 45°C & 60°C
8. The compost biomass must contain at least _______ of free space or porosity.
a. 20% c. 30%
b. 25 d. 35%
9. The moisture content of the organic material must not be too high nor too low. When the
moisture content is too low, What will happen to the decomposition rate?
a. rapidly down c. Slows down
b. Stable d. unstable
10. It is the process of converting organic materials like leaves and animal manure into humus by
the action of microbes and other organisms.
a. pH c. Vermicomposting
b. Trench Composting d. Sheet Composting

What I Have Learned

In your activity notebook, compute the C:N standard ratio for rapid composting. But you
only have 15 kls of chicken manure. How many kilogram should be the rice straw and fallen leaves
that will result in/between standard ratio? Show your computations.

Substrates Carbon % Nitrogen %

Rice straw (dried basis) 40 1
Fallen leaves(dried basis) 35 1
FM Laying chicken 20 3

What I Can Do

Backyard Tour
List all the raw materials found for composting at your backyard. Copy the format below
and write your answer in your activity notebook.

MATERIALS CONTENT AVAILABILIT AREA

For Composting (Carbon/ Y
Nitrogen) (for year round)
*Always
*Sometimes
Ex. fallen leaves CARBON Always Backyard
*Add more rows if needed.

Guide Questions:
1. What do you feel doing the activity?
2. What are the top 3 materials for composting (substrates) found that available for whole year
round?
3. In going around your backyard, can you proposed the best site for composting area.

Assessment

MULTIPLE CHOICE. Choose the letter of the best answer. Write your answer in your activity
notebook.
1. It is a mixture of decayed organic materials decomposed by microorganisms in a warm, moist
and aerobic environment, releasing nutrients into readily available forms for plants use.
a. Compost c. C:N Ratio
b. Composting d. All of these
2. It is the controlled decay of plants and animal to produce compost, a dark rich soil-like material.
a. Compost c. Organic Fertilizer
b. Composting d. Inorganic Fertilizer
3. These are the benefits of using compost in farms according to PCAARD – DOST 2014 except;
a. Recycling c. Farm Manure
b. Build Soil structure d. Agri- Industrial Waste
4. A compost materials which is high in nitrogen, Which of this microbes is responsible to make
proteins?
a. Biodegradable c. Green
b. Brown d. Non- Biodegradable
5. The environment temperature will play an important role in defining the speed of
decomposition. Lower temperature speed up the process, while high temperature slows it down.
a. True c. Partially True
b. False d. Partially False

Additional Activities

In your backyard or any available area, prepare your materials for composting such as coco
husk, bamboo, used lumber, etc. make your own composting area and make your reflection .
Write your answer in your activity notebook.

Lesson
Composting and Harvesting Process of Fertilizer
2

COMPOSTING PROCESS
It is important to understand the process of composting. It is primarily a microbiological
process of decomposing organic substances, which results in a product that is stable, pathogen-free,
and contains readily available nutrients when applied to the soil.
In the early stages of composting, the first to decompose are the proteins, sugars and starches then
the cellulose and hemicelluloses, and lastly the lignin.

What’s In

Fill in the blanks. Write a word/phrases to complete the thought of the sentence . Choose your
answer from the parentheses. Write your answer in your activity notebook.
In Organic farming , one of the most essential composting method is what we call
Vermicomposting. It is a process of __________________________ materials like leaves and
________________ manure into ________________, an organic matter through
_____________________ by the action of _________________ and other organisms. Humus is
rich in nutrients and contributes to soil texture and water retention.

( animal, converting organic , decomposition, humus, microbes, vermicompost)

What’s New

The composting process involves four main components: organic

matter, moisture, oxygen, and bacteria. Composting is the most recommended method
for recycling food waste. It is a process that involves biological decomposition of
organic wastes.

What is It

Composting Process

Compost is produced from raw organic materials through complex chemical and microbial
processes. Enzymatic digestion of plant and animal materials by soil microorganisms, and
chemical processes of oxidation, reduction and hydrolysis take place. Microorganisms further
break down and products of these processes. Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction during which one or
more water molecules are split into hydrogen and hydroxide ions.
Bacteria feed on these decomposition products to carry on their life processes and to grow and
reproduce.
The heat produced in a compost pile is the result of “biological” burning, also referred to as
oxidation. When heat is high, the bacterial activity is at its peak.
The organic raw materials in the compost pile are transformed into simpler form of proteins and
carbohydrates, which then will decompose further into readily available compounds. And through
the help of some special bacteria these compounds finally break down into nitrate compounds that
are easily available or “digestible” by plants.
When organisms work/ decompose without oxygen, it is called anaerobic decomposition;
when organisms work/decompose with oxygen, it is called aerobic decomposition.
Lastly, the biochemical processes will produce humus from these substances and the rest of the
decomposed material.

The Process of Composting

A. Composting steps when agricultural wastes are used as substrates.

1. Collect substrates. In collecting substrate, a hand tractor with trailer may be needed. Collect crop
residues separately from animal manures and rice hull ash or carbonized rice hull. Bring them to
the composting area.

2. Mix the materials at a ratio of 3:1:1(3 solid wastes, 1 farm manure, and 1 rice hull ash or CRH.
3. Moisten the materials then shred to enhance decomposition. Shredding will reduce the size of the
materials for easier attack of microorganisms.

4. In the absence of shredding machine, use microbial enhancers, which are available in the market.
Follow the procedure listed in the packet of the microbial enhancers.

5.Pile the shredded materials and cover with used plastic to minimize evolution of greenhouse
gases and conserve moisture of the pile. Be sure that the plastic cover is perforated to allow
aeration in the pile.
6. Monitor the MC and temperature of the pile every 2 days. In monitoring the pile temperature,
insert soil thermometer in each of the sides of the pile as well as on top of the pile. Record the
temperature. In the absence of soil thermometer, insert your hand on the sides of the pile and feel
the heat of the pile. Presence of heat indicates active composting process. If the pile is dry, add
water. Be sure that enough water is added to the pile to maintain moist condition. Get sample of the
materials and hold it in your hands. If water drips from your hand, there is much water in your pile.

7. After 2 weeks, open the pile and turn it. Turning can be done by spading the end of the pile and
turning it back. Afterward, ensure that compost material is moist and then cover with plastic.
8. After another 2 weeks, the compost is more or less mature already. Mature compost is indicated
by black/dark colored material absence of foul odor, no heat dissipated, and unrecognizable
original compost materials.

9. Air-dry the compost under a shaded place to avoid direct impact of rainfall. Do not over dry the
compost. Maintaim compost MC at least approximately 30%. Get a handful sample of the compost
and squeeze in your palm. If no water drips and you can form a ball, then MC of the compost is
approximately 30%.

10. Shred the compost to have a uniform size of the material, sieve, and place in a sack with plastic
sack nside. An ordinary sack will contain 50kg of the compost material. Sew the sack and store in a
coll dry place.

Below is the average nutrient composition of composted agricultural wastes.

Table 1.Nutrient composition of composted agricultural wastes.
Final
Nutrient Value (%) C:N
Types of Materials and their Ratio
Ratio
N
P K Ca Mg pH
Rice hull: chicken dung: burnt hull 0.95
1.5 1.5 5.9 0.5 7.9 24
1:1:0.01 3 3 8
Coconut coir dust: chicken dung: burnt hull 2.32 2.0 3.1 7.9 0.8 8.4 12
0.7:1:0.01 8 2 2 9
Oil palm frond: chicken dung: burnt hull 2.01 1.4 2.3 5.9 0.6 8.6 13
4 4 0 7
Rice straw: chicken dung: rice bran: spent 1.57 0.7 2.8 - - 8.0 15.6
molasses from alcohol factory 7 3
Pineapple trunk:oil palm frond: chicken dung 1.51 1.8 2.7 9.9 0.9 - 13.6
1:1:0.4 2 9 9 9
Source:PCAARRD-DOST.Organic Agriculture of the Philippines: A Training Manual.
B. Composting steps when household and market wastes are used as substrates:

1. Segregation at source- One requisite for solid waste particularly household and
market wastes is segregation at source. Segregation is done to ensure that no toxic
wastes like batteries are mixed with the wastes. Use separate containers for wet and
dry wastes.
2. Collection/hauling of raw materials-Collect materials separately. For wet
materials use plastic drum or equivalent containers to prevent spill over while in
transit. For dry materials, use hand tractor. The trailer should have two
compartments, one for biodegradable and one for non-biodegradable
3. In the succeeding steps, follow from the procedure in composting of agricultural
wastes.
CARBONIZED RICE HULL
Carbonized rice hull (CRH) is made from incomplete or partial burning of rice hull. It is
porous and bulky with uniform intact black particles. It contains phosphorous (P), potassium (K),
calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and micronutrients vital to growing crops. It is free from disease
organisms because it is sterilized. And naturally habitat for beneficial micro organisms that
facilitate composting.

Uses of CRH
1. As substrate to organic fertilizer.When mixed with other organic materials like bokashi, CRH
can be a good source of organic fertilizer (OF).
2. As soil conditioner. CRH makes the clay soil porous, replenish nutrients and other
microelements in the soil that were lost due to continuous cropping. It improves soil structure by
increasing bulk density, water holding capacity, and aeration. Also, it is a good potting media when
mixed with other materials.
3. As water purifier. Activated carbon from CRH filters the dirty particles in water, making it
effective in purifying household/drinking water.
4. As pest control agent. CRH contains silica that irritates the golden kuhol. When applied after
levelling, snails are forced to come out, making handpicking faster and easier.
5. As base material for making microbial inoculants, Effective Micro organisms (EM).
6. As charcoal for fuel. Charcoal briquettes from CRH are good alternative sources of fuel.
Compared with plain rice hull that takes relatively more time to produce heat. CRH can easily be
ignited to produced heat or convert heat into fuel for cooking.
7. As deodorizer/odor suppressant. CRH also cleanses and deodorizes bad air smell through its
activated carbon that absorbs foul odors in the air. The same principle applies when charcoal is
placed inside a refrigerator. Also, CRH is used as mulch bed in animal pen and poultry houses to
reduce foul smell from urine and manure.
CRH Making
Materials: Rice hull, carbonizer, shovel, wood as fuel, lighter or match sticks, watering pale, and
water.

Procedure:
1. Prepare all the materials needed.
2. Start a fire using the lighter and firewood and let it kindle.
3. Make sure that the fire won’t die out before covering it with the carbonizer.
4. Pour and stack the dried rice hull around the carbonizer.
5. When the rice hull at the top are carbonized, use the shovel to cover it with the dried rice hull
from the bottom.
6. When the rice hull is almost carbonized (80%), remove the carbonizer by tippng it over to the
side using the long shovel. Extra caution is exercised for the carbonizer is extremely hot.
7. Mix the rice hull and let the remaining embers to carbonize the rest of the mixture until all of it
(100%) are carbonized.
8. When all of the rice hull are carbonized, sprinkle water onto the CRH using the watering pale to
extinguish the remaining embers.
9. Lay the CRH thinly and make sure that the embers have died out to prevent the CRH turn to ash.
10. When it’s dry, collect and store the CRH into sacks. After that, it is ready to be used.
for more info about CRH making and carbonizer making, videos are available in
www.youtube.com
VERMICULTURE AND VERMICOMPOST PRODUCTION AND UTILIZATION
According to Lomat, normal decomposition of grass cuttings can take up to six months.
However, this can be accelerated to as short as 30-45 days by the use of earthworms to digest the
organic materials. This is called vermicomposting that yield beneficial by products known as
vermicompost or vermicast. In a single process, two products are produced: the vermicast which is
pure worm excreta and the worm biomass. (DepEd-IMCS 2013 TLE LM-Agricrops Production).
Sciencing.com discussed about worm composting/vermicomposting that uses specialized
worm species to break down organic waste. Composting with worms is a continuous process that
can be done indoors or outdoors, in ether garden compost piles or specialized composting bins or
barrels: it’s considered easier, since you don’t have to turn the compost material manually because
the worms do it for you. Earthworms remove dead organic material from the surface of the soil and
carry it underground. Earthworms will eat up to their body weight in food daily. Soil quality is
improved through their casting-feces-which provides nutrients for plants.
Vermiculture or vermicomposting is derived from the Latin term vermis, meaning worms.
Vermicomposting is essentially the consumption of organic material by earthworms. This speeds
up the process of decomposition and provides a nutrient rich end product called vermicompost, in
the form of worm castings. Vermicompost comes from different substrates. (PCAARRD-DOST
2014)
Benefits of the application of vermicompost
 improves soil structure, porosity and water holding capacity
 enhances soil microbial activity
 supplies the essential nutrients for better plant growth
 provides plant growth regulators
 suppresses soil-borne pest and diseases
 results in 100% organically produced crops.
Species for vermicomposting
Several species of earthworms are used in vermicomposting such as red wrigglers and night
crawlers. However, the most widely used species in te country nowadays is the exotic species in the
country nowadays is the exotic species-African night crawler or Eudriluseugeniae (Kinberg). Other
popular species include Eiseniafetida (Savigny) and Lumbricusrubellus (Hffmeister). However,
they thrive in temperate areas. The endemic red wriggler species Perionyxexcavatus(Perrier) is also
suitable but has lower conversion and reeding rates as compared with E. eugeniae (Edwards and
Arancon 2004.
Earthworm classification based on niche and feeding habit:

 Epigeics (Epianecics-Surface Soil) (Epigeic-Litter)

-Lumbricusrubellus
-Eiseniafetida
 -Eudriluseugeniae
Perionyx excavates
 anecics (Burrowing)
 Endogeics (Surface soil-80 cm)
Earthworms are hermaphrodite meaning they have both male and female sex organs, but
require another earthworm to mate.
Generally, earthworm consumes food equivalent to its body weight daily. So a kilogram of
earthworm consumes a kilogram of substrate per day. With regards to reproduction, constant
association with regards to reproduction, constant association with other earthworms promotes
possible mating once a week. Nevertheless, old earthworms lay
more cocoon capsules compared with young sexually matured
one. (PCAARRD-DOST, 2014)

African Night Crawler (ANC) Eudriluseugeniae

African night crawler are native in the warm regions of West
Africa, but now vermicomposters in tropic and sub tropic
climates all over the world are using them as composting and bait worms. Due to their voracious
appetites and ability to quickly reproduce African night crawler s are quickly gaining popularity
with vermicomposters. (wormfarmfacts.com)
African night crawlers are night wanderers and leave their vermin bins for no apparent
reasons. They are epigeic species measuring around 8 in in length and weigh approximately 2.5
grams at full maturity. Their life cycle can be completed in 60 days given the temperature of 25°C,
pH7, and 70-80% moisture (Viljoen and Reinecke 1992). ANC breathe or take oxygen through
their skin. Also, in ideal conditions they become mature breeders in as little as 5 weeks. ANC
produce an average of up to 3.5 cocoon in a week and from each cocoon typically two hatchlings
will emerge (wormfarmfacts.com).
Site Lay-out
Worm Bins
Wormbins/wormbeds may be made of any material available whether
iron bars with plastic lining, old plastic basins, bamboo slats or hollow blocks.
The advantage of wormbins/wormbeds is that they are movable and can be
transferred at will. Care however should be taken that they are properly
protected from direct sunlight, too much water and natural predators. The
substrate is placed in the worm beds where the worms feed on them.

Sheltered culturing of worms is recommended to protect the worms from excessive

sunlight, rain and predators. Worm bins are usually set in vacant, shaded area, basement or
backyards. These vary basically on available construction materials and the desired production
capacity. The earthworms are usually housed in rectangular structures made up of plastic sheets as
flooring and cover, and placed in a shaded area. The bins are made-up of plastic sheets with
bamboo, wood, or iron bar as support. Vermi bins are placed normally in a flat area with readily
available water and farm wastes. Various modifications on the designs are practiced among various
vermicomposting facilities (PCAARRD-DOST, 2014). The temperature of the area should be 26°C.

 Windrows
 Windrows are piles of substrates that are decomposed before feeding them to the worms.
They are usually about one meter wide and at least a meter high and can be of any length as
desired.
It also to be covered either by plastic material or any organic material that will protect the substrate
and ultimately the worms from the elements and natural predators.

 Housing structures are the best options but are also the
most expensive so will be considered when finances permit.
However, if there are abandoned structures within the site, these can
be used as well for the purpose.

In the more developed countries where labor is expensive, some

companies opt for mechanical systems. Again, this can be explored when
the project is big enough and finances warrant this option because while
the manpower is low, the capital expenditure is high and hugely dependent on electricity.

Bed Preparation
Prepare the bed by selecting the site that is shaded, free from predators and
near to the water source. Arrange the hollow blocks making a bed of 1m x 3m and
put bamboo stakes to strengthen the bed. Used sacks and nylon net could be used as
matting. Other materials that maybe needed in the stocking of the bed are:

 Water and water sprinklers

 Plastic sheets to cover the bed

Gathering Raw Materials

In preparing the raw materials (substrate), it is helpful to consider the source and quality, the
carbon to nitrogen (C:N) ratio and the size of the materials.
Source and quality
In sourcing raw materials, care should be taken that one is sure of the
quality of raw materials. If using animal manure, be sure that the animals were
not dewormed as this would also deworm your project. On the other hand, the
plant source should also be free of harmful insecticides, fungicides and
herbicides which may also decimate your worm
population.
The worms eat all organic waste and produce
vermicast. However, the quality of the vermicast and the
speed of production is
dependent on several
factors.

Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio (C:N)

As previously mentioned, the desired C:N ratio is 70:30. To
achieve this, more than two (2) parts of carbon source with 1 part of nitrogen source. In the rural setting,
one may have the luxury of choosing and formulating the raw materials for the substrate in which case, the
resultant vermin cast is of fertilizer quality. At a higher ratio, the carbon and nitrogen will be locked and
not easily available to the plants. A low ratio will not be able to hold the nitrogen well and it will volatilize
easily.
Size of the materials

While shredding is not absolutely necessary, it is a vital factor in speeding up the process. After
gathering the raw materials, mix well and shred. Wet the mixture so it feels like a damp sponge.
Beddings
Bedding is the living medium for the worms and also a food source. A wide variety of
bedding materials can be used including newspapers, sawdust, rice straw, pre composted manure,
and dried leaves. After preparing the bedding materials, they should be subjected to either
anaerobic (10-14 days) or aerobic decomposition (30-35 days). When the bedding materials
reached the moisture content of about 60-80% (when a fistful is squeezed a few drops of water
should fall), the earthworms will be placed on top at the rate of 1 kg per square meter. Put sidings
of hollow blocks or sawali. Protect against birds, cats, rats, frog etc as well as heavy rains as
nutrients will leach.
Substrates
There is no standard formula in substrates preparation. Waste materials such as dried leaves,
grasses, kitchen leftovers, rice straw and hull, coir dust, ‘kakawate’ leaves, coco coir dust, banana
trunks, water lily, forages, vines, crop residues, can wastes, and vegetable trimmings are mixed
varied proportions. These biodegradable substrates are manually collected from farms, markets,
industries, household kitchens and yards. The selection and combination of substrates depend on
the purpose of feeding. Substrates are chopped, mixed or layered, and watered before undergoing
thermophilic/anaerobic decomposition for 1 month or less depending on the waste composition and
rate of microbial colonization. Composting is hastened when the materials are reduced in size
because smaller particles have more surface area for microbial action. Thus, shredding and
pulverizing bulky materials is useful, efficient, and cost-effective because the time element for
decomposition is reduced.
Ideally, a good mix of substrates contains the proper carbon to nitrogen ratio (C:N) for rapid
decomposition. Local nitrogenous sources include animal manure, ‘kakawate’ leaves, acacia leaves,
ipil-ipil leaves, azolla, vines, kudzu, centrosema, mungbean, peanuts, soybeans, and ‘camote’.
While common sources of carbon are leaves, grasses, vegetables, cornstalks, rice straw, paper,
sawdust, and cardboard. A varied mixture of substances produces good quality compost, rich in
major and micronutrients.
The microbes in compost use carbon for energy and nitrogen for protein synthesis. The
proportion of these two elements required by the microbes averages to about 30 parts carbon to 1
part nitrogen. This ratio governs the speed at which the microbes decompose organic wastes. The
C:N ratio should be calculated to accelerate the composting process.
Procedure in Vermicomposting
There are six steps to vermi composting.
1. Waste collection. Any waste materials from various sources such as farms, household,
market, and industries can be used as substrates for vermicomposting. Upon collection of
these waste materials, they need to be properly segregated to ensure that all non-
biodegradable wastes are excluded from the composting bins.
2. Segregation. Segregate non-biodegradable materials such as plastic, glasses, wood/twigs,
metal, printed glossy papers, PVC,rubber and stones; and biodegradable materials such as
meat and milk products, spicy, and acidic foods. These materials attract flies and other pest
that produce undesirable odor, and adversely affect the quality of the compost if not
separated quality. Segregation prior to substrates preparation produces pure vermicompost
and avoids further segregation after decomposition. This facilitates easy handling and rapid
harvesting, and also saves time and labor when done as early as possible.
3. Shredding/Processing. The substrates should be chopped for rapid decomposition.
4. Thermophilic/Anaerobic Decomposition. The thermophilic stage starts when the
substrate is thoroughly chopped, mixed, and watered. The mixtures is then placed in culture
units such as boxes, sacks, bags, containers, or heaped in beds. These are lined at the
bottom and sides with plastic sheets or other forms of retaining devices, such as screens
and blocks. The compost pile is then covered with a plastic sheet to accelerate
decomposition initiated by the thermophiclic microorganisms. Microbial action increases
the temperature of the pile to about 50-70°C. The higher the temperature, the faster
decomposition takes place. This stage may last for 2-4 weeks.
5. Earthworm/Aerobic Decomposition. Earthworm/aerobic decomposition may last for a
month or less depending on the volume of inoculated worms. The anaerobically
decomposed substrate is stocked with earthworms for vermicompost production. It is
necessary to maintain the MC. Addition of lime or crushed eggshell is recommended when
the pH turns acidic. Increase in acidity is indicated by the presence of mites. However,
adding too much liming materials will make the pH basic.
6. Harvesting.Vermicompost harvesting starts when all the substrates have turned into black
granules or converted into castings. The earthworms and vermicomposts can be harvested
by hand picking (manual extraction), sieving, feed trapping (migration), or with the use of
light on top of mounds (pyramid of egypt). Migration is when the earthworms can also be
allowed to crawl to another prepared mound of substrate/food by placing them side by side
with the old mound. Pyramid of Egypt is when the vermicompost is pile under the shade
like a pyramid. After a day, the top part is ready to harvest easily because the worms have
gone to the bottom of the pile. It is recommended to withdraw watering a week before
scheduled harvesting and re-stocking of the earthworms in the available substrate. Air-
 drying of the vermicompost at 30% moisture is required to maintain viability of
microorganisms on the vermicompost. The worms are collected for new culture beds. The
collected vermicompost is dried, passed through a 3 mm sieve to recover the cocoons,
young worms, and unconsumed organic material. The cocoons and young worms are used
for seeding the new culture beds. Pure vemicompost are placed in sacks.
Uses of vermicompost
Vermicompost products may be utilized in a variety of ways aside from being an
organic amendment/soil conditioner and potting media .Vermicompost can also be used as
compost enhancer, fishpond fertilizer, and vermitea component.
 Vermicompost is used mainly as soil conditioner for all types of plants. As a soil
conditioner/organic fertilizer, common practice in vermicompost application is
through basal application during planting or transplanting of plants/tress.
 As component in potting mixes and/or bokashi, vermicompost can also be mixed
with other materials to produce potting mixes and/or bokashi for specific crops.
 As seedling media, small amount of vermicompost are incorporated on seedling
trays to enhance seed germination.
 As fertilizer in fishponds, 25 kg vermicompost in sack is submerged per fish pond to
promote algal bloom.
 As compost enhancer, 1-inch think vermicompost is spread on top of organic wastes
to accelerate microbial decomposition.
 Harvested earthworms are 64% protein. They are given as fresh feed to fish
(‘tilapia’, ‘lapu-lapu’, and tropical fish), eel, crabs, prawn, duck, chicken and bird or
processed into vermimeal.
 Vermitea production as foliar fertilizer.

Application of the Vermicompost

Basal
Vermicompost can also be used for basal application. Line the trenches
with vermicompost before you put in the plants. The amount put in depends on
the amount available for use. You can also put this into the pot after you have put
in some soil but before you put in the plant.

Top Dressing
You can use vermicast as top dressing. You can place about 50
gms on top of the soil in a small 15 cm pot and work in the vermicast
into the soil. This should keep the plants happy for about half the year.
Potting Mix
Vermicompost can also be incorporated into the potting medium. One part
vermicompost plus one part good garden soil and one part carbonized rice hulls is a
very good potting medium for most plants, generally. This potting medium can also be
used for seedling trays or to germinate seeds. If a lighter medium is desired, add more
carbonized rice hulls.

Basal and Foliar Fertilizer

 Basal fertilizer is applied on the soil before planting while foliar fertilizer is applied on and
underneath the leaves. Both types contain macro and micronutrients and have microorganisms. Plants can
absorb foliar fertilizer than basal fertilizer.

Foliar Basal
.

Organic Fertilizer vs. Chemical-based Fertilizer

Properties of Soil Organic Fertilizer Chemical-based Fertilizer

Improves structure by adjusting the Destroy soil structure (massive)
arrangement of soil particles
Soil become porous Soil become compact and hard due to
Physical Property fillers present in the material
For light textured soil, it increases No contribution on the improvement of
water holding capacity while for the water holding capacity of the soil
heavy textured soil, easy to drain
Adds organic macro and No organic matter addition
micronutrients
Provides both macro and Contains 1-4 elements and mostly
Chemical Property micronutrients macronutrients only
Improves soil pH Contributes to the acidity of the soil
Lowers toxicity level of
micronutrients
Increases population density of Kills most of beneficial microorganisms
Biological Property beneficial microorganism in the soil
Promotes biodiversity
Organic fertilizers contribute to the environment by improving soil and water conditions and
promoting to the health aspects of nature and human.
Fertilizers become organic when the material is free of chemical substances, there is presence of
high organic matter content and the raw materials used are indigenous in the locality.
To preserve the potency of organic fertilizer, the following must be observed:

 store in dry, dark and cool place

 packaging material should be lined with plastic bag
 for foliar, when aging add molasses to prolong shelf-life
Marketing Strategies
Vermicompost is not well-known product and not commonly used by ordinary farmers. It is
therefore necessary to introduce and promote them to the intended users by giving seminars or
short talks on vermicomposting and supplying it to existing agricultural suppliers with leaflets on
utilization and benefits if used. Other strategies are demonstrating the effects of products and
participating in agri-fairs, garden shows to showcase the products.
Advantages of vermicompost over commercial fertilizer
Commercial fertilizer is very costly, usually beyond reach of ordinary farmers. Just as
important, many components of commercial fertilizer (ammonium sulphate, potassium nitrate, etc.)
are soluble in water. Thus, they usually are dissolved and washed away with the rain during the
riny season. The dissolved commercial fertilizer in the rainwater runoff, in turn may induce algal
growth and organisms (water hyacinth, and other acquatic plants) in rivers, lakes and other bodies
of water that trigger what is referred to as algal bloom (that is evident by the deep green opaque
color of bodies of water where excessive algal and plant growth occurs(Kalikasan Philppines.org).
Health precautions
The decomposing compost heap can generate heat up to 600C. Be careful in handling the
compost while turning. Wear protective gloves or footgear so as not to scald your hands and feet.
Composting materials and micro-organisms may cause allergies, although they are non pathogenic.
To avoid inconvenience from itching, cover the nose and mouth with mask; use long-sleeves, and
wash body and hands after working on the composting area.

What’s More
Activity 1. VENN Diagram.
Make a Venn diagram about compost, vermicompost and CRH. Copy the format and write your
answer in your activity notebook.

Questions:
1. What are the similarities between compost, vermicompost and carbonize rice hull?
2. What are the differences between compost, vermicast and carbonized rice hull?
3. How to produce CRH, Compost and Vermicompost?
4. What is the benefits of each to organic farming?
Copy the questions and write your answer in your activity notebook.

What I Have Learned

Activity 2. How much I have learned? Answer the following questions, write your answer in your
activity notebook.
1. What is vermiculture?
2. What are the uses of vermicast?
3. What is carbonized rice hull?
4. 4. What are the uses of CRH?
5. 5. How to produce CRH, Compost and Vermicompost/vermicast?
6. What is the importance of CRH, compost and vermicast?
7. In Organic farming, Is it allowed to use chemicals or treated with chemicals for the raw
materials to compost? Why? Why not?
 What I Can Do
Conduct an interview with your parents/ experienced organic fertilizer producer or farmer
who practiced composting in your locality regarding the opportunities in organic fertilizer
production. Construct questions based on the following: Write your interview in your activity
notebook.
1. What are the specific vegetables that he/she grows?
2. What are the fertilizers they used?
3. What is the specific organic fertilizer they used/practiced?
4. Did they use vermicast, compost or CRH?
5. Is organic fertilizers available in their local market? Where did they get Organic Fertilizer?
6. What other details do they think are important for producing organic fertilizer students to know?

Assessment

Multiple Choice. Choose the letter of the best answer. Write your chosen letter in your activity
notebook.
1. The following are the micronutrients from the Carbonized Rice Hull which is vital to growing
crops except ;
a. Calcium b. Manganese c.Phosphorus d. Potassium
2. Where on the following earthworm classification does the Eudriluseuginiae belong based on its
niche and feeding habit?
a. Anecics b. EiseniaFetida c.Epigeics d.Perionyx
excavates
3. After preparing the bedding materials, they should be subjected to either anaerobic or aerobic
decomposition. In anaerobic decomposition, how many days is required?
a. 7 – 10 b. 8 – 12 c. 10 – 14 d. 15 – 20

4. Which of the following methods of composting refers to “ process of converting organic

materials like leaves and animal manure into “humus” by means of worms?
a. Anaerobic Composting b. Bokashi Composting
c. Trench Composting d. Vermicomposting

5. Which of the following method of composting refers to” digging holes in your garden soil and
burying raw compost ingredients.
a. Anaerobic Composting b. Bokashi Composting
c. Trench Composting d. Vermicomposting
6. It is the most commonly used earthworm for composting purpose’s in the Philippines.
a. African Knight Crawler b. Red Wiggler
c. Perionyx excavates d. Eiseniafetida

7. In vermicomposting procedures, In what stages if the substrates / materials are thoroughly

chopped, mixed , watered and placed into cultured units such as boxes, sacks, bags, containers or
heaped in bed.
a. Waste Collection b. Thermophilic Stage
c. Shredding/Processing d. Segregation

8. Vermicompost harvesting starts when all of the substrates have turned into white granules. This
statement is…..
a. True b. Partially True c. False d. Partially False

9. How many percent of moisture is required to maintain viability of microorganisms on the

vermicompost?
a. 20% b. 30% c.40% d. 50%
10. This composting techniques entails spreading thin layers of organic materials on top of the soil
suface.
a. Anaerobic Composting b. Bokashi Composting
c. Trench Composting d. Vermicomposting

Additional activities
Perform vermicimposting, follow the given procedures: wastes collection, segregation,
shredding, thermophilic decomposition, earthworm decomposition and harvesting. If vermi bin is
available, do it in vermin bin otherwise, in composting area.
Note: Collection, segregation, shredding and thermophilic decomposition will only be done for this
time and after 14-21 days, earthworm will be inoculated. Please wear your PPE. Make a video in
performing this task and send to Grade 12 group chat room.

Lesson
Records Keeping
3

To keep track of what is happening in your business, you should keep farm records and
accounts.Farm records and accounts will inform you whether or not your business is
gaining.Honesty and diligence should always be practiced in keeping records to ensure the success
of your business.

What’s In
Let’s Play WORDSCAPE.
A Wordscape is the word hunt game that over 10 million people just can’t stop playing!It’s
a perfect fit fans of crossword or word anagram games,combining best of word find games and
crossword puzzles.

Instruction:In this game you will find words from the main word given below.Try different words
as many as you can. Copy the format below and write your answer in your activity notebook

D
R R
C E
S C
________________ __________________ __________________

________________ __________________ __________________

________________ __________________ __________________

What’s New

Record keeping is a topic few producers care to discuss or do. It can be time
consuming and take valuable time away from your field work. However, it is
becoming a critical task in production agriculture. Currently, government agencies,
lenders, and insurance companies are requiring better and more accurate records.
Not only bushels per acre, income and expenses, but also weather records are
becoming increasingly necessary.

 Another need for accurate record keeping which is becoming increasingly

more important is certification for Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good
Handling Practices (GHP) or organic production. All three of these require you
to not only keep good records but also provide documentation.
What is It
To effectively monitor the production of organic fertilizer, the following information must be
recorded:
 manufacturing date
 expiry date
 quantity
 moisture content
 nutritional composition
Importance of keeping farm records and accounts

Financial, farm operation records and reports are very important in a business. They enable
the project manager to keep track of all transactions made by the enterprise or project. Thus, the
manager has reliable and updated information on the financial status of the project. In collecting
data for record keeping, request the vegetable grower to record his farm activities and transactions
for a year. Daily recording is ideal but experience shows that weekly recall and recording has been
found to be satisfactory.

Classification of costs

Costs in production may be classified into four major categories:

1. Fixed costs – refer to costs incurred whether or not production takes place. The fixed costs in
vegetable production would include land, tax, government irrigation fee, and depreciation and
interest charges on equipment such as tractor or irrigation pump and the maintenance cost of work
animals.

2. Variable costs – refer to costs which vary depending on the quantities of production. Land rent
is a variable cost if there is shared management. Seeds, fertilizers, insecticides, and hired labor are
also examples of variable costs. Other variable costs would include harvesting and threshing,
operating cost for equipment like the tractor and irrigation pumps and pest control.

3. Cash – current money in hand or money readily available. It is the item that most farmers lack,
especially before planting. Farmers resort to borrowing money from various sources to cover
expenses for crop production. Interest of borrowed money is considered cash. Hired labor is
classified under cash.

4. Non-cash – includes interest on operating capital, if the capital is not borrowed. Likewise, the
farmer’s labor and family labor are non-cash costs.
 Variable cost
b. non-cash
a. Cash
seeds family labor
fertilizers land preparation
pesticides planting/transplanting
hired labor and equipment care of crop
land preparation harvesting & threshing
planting/transplanting
care of crop
harvesting & threshing
hauling

Fixed cost
a. cash b. non-cash
irrigation fee care of carabao
land tax or land rent care of implements
interest on capital depreciation of implements

In computing the net income, consider the following:

 gross income
 the cost of production
 the cost of marketing.

To get the gross income multiply the number of kilograms of your product by the price per
kilo.
Determine the total cost of production; include both fixed and variable costs. Deduct total cost of
production from gross income to get net income.

Data to be Collected/Recorded

The farmer cooperator has to keep records and accounts of his enterprise. Farm records and
accounts are written statements of facts and figures on a subject for a definite purpose. The data to
be included and the sequencing of the data or information depend on your purpose. They may
include data on money, dates and events, or quantities of farm produce.

Examples are:
1. inventory record
2. farm sales
3. farm expenses

Farm accounts are written financial statements. Examples are:

1. fertilizer accounts
2. insecticide accounts

Money values are included in these accounts from purchase records, fertilizer records and
insecticide records.
What’s More

Instruction: Discuss the following. Write your answer in

Your activity notebook.
1.What is the importance of record keeping?
2. What are things that a producer need to be collected and recorded?

What I have Learned

Instruction: Classify the following as fixed cost or variable cost. Write the answer in their
respective column. Copy the format below and write your answer in your activity notebook.
-Tractor - treshing – land – seed - tax -insecticides – depreciation – harvest fee –
-fertilizers – government irrigation fee
FIXED COST VARIABLE COST

Terminologies
Agricultural products are any agricultural commodity or product, whether raw or processed,
including any commodity or product derived from the livestock for human or livestock
consumption.

Agricultural inputs are all substances or materials used in the production or handling of organic
agricultural products.

Basal fertilizers are fertilizer which is apply near the base of the stems.

Beneficial microorganisms are also known as harmless microorganisms. These are the
microorganisms which are involved in the production of oxygen, biomass control and 'cleaning' the
Earth of remnants of dead organisms.

Bio-security measures is a set of preventive measures designed to reduce the risk of transmission
of infectious diseases, quarantined pests, invasive alien species, living modified organisms.

Composting is the breaking down organic waste into humus that is reused as a beneficial nutrient
can be done in several ways: vermicomposting, which is most beneficial for composting food
waste; aerobic composting (with air); and anaerobic composting (without air).

Compost is any product in solid or liquid form, of plant or animal origin , that has undergone
substantial decomposition that can supply available nutrients to plants with a total N,P,K of 2.5 to
less than 5 percent. It is composed of organic matter that is recycled back into the earth.

Dung is the organic material that is used to fertilize land, usually consisting of the feces and urine
of domestic livestock, with or without litter such as straw, hay, or bedding.

Fertilizer is any organic or inorganic material of natural or synthetic origin (other than liming
materials) that is added to a soil to supply one or more plant nutrients essential to the growth of
plants.
Microbial Inoculants is a biologically active products containing optimum population of one or a
combination of active strains of bacteria, actinomycetes, algae, and fungi that are useful in different
biological activities.

Organic Fertilizer is any product in solid or liquid form, of plant or animal origin, that has
undergone substantial decomposition with a total N,P,K of five to ten percent.

Organic Product is a product that has been produced or processed, and

handled in compliance with organic standards.

Organic waste is anything that comes from plants or animals that is biodegradable.

Rapid composting method is composting method which apply new, different procedures and
materials to speed up the process.

Standards are norms, set of guidelines, requirements and principles that are used as in organic
agriculture and processing.
Production means the operations undertaken to supply agricultural products in the state in which
they occur on the farm, including initial packaging and labeling of the product.

Vermicomposting the process of using earthworms to breakdown kitchen and garden waste, to
create a faster than normal composting; to be précised the product is called vermicompost (or
worm compost).