Organic Fertilizers from Farm Waste Adopted by Farmers in the Philippines

Organic Fertilizers from Farm Waste

Adopted by Farmers in the
Philippines
BD July 14, 2018 AgriBusiness  3 Comments
The Philippines’ Department of Agriculture has been promoting the
production of High Value Crops (HVCs) in order for farmers to earn
higher income. Instead of using inorganic fertilizers, however, vegetable and
fruit growers had been taught to use indigenous microorganisms (IMO) and
fermented farm products as part of a nutrient management component based on
the Korean Natural Farming (KNF). This is a system of farming which has been
practiced in over 30 countries. This paper discusses the methods of preparing
the common fermented farm inputs, particularly the Fermented Plant Juice
(FPJ) and the Fermented Fruit Juice (FFJ). It likewise examines the
variations in materials and processes and how these organic fertilizers from
farm wastes are used in different areas in the Philippines.
 

Introduction

The Oil Crisis of 2008 created a big stir in the agriculture sector mainly due to
the escalating prices of inorganic fertilizers. With prices of fertilizers tripled,
farmers were forced to look for alternative sources (as always) of nutrients in
which the Department of Agriculture (DA), through the bureau of Soils and
Water Management (BSWM) responded with the Project on Rapid Composting
as a part of the DA’s National Organic Agriculture Program addressed mainly to
rice farmers. The project involves training and provision of shredders to
capacitate farmers to produce their own organic fertilizers
The High Value Crops (HVCs) sector however, has been taking a slightly
different tact. Vegetable and fruit growers had been using indigenous micro
organisms (IMO) and fermented farm products as a part of Nutrient
Management based on Korean Natural Farming (KNF) through the
assistance of NGOs and SCUs in various training and extension programs.
“Korean Natural Farming” is a system of farming being practiced in over
30 countries. The basic premise in KNF is that farmers can generate most, if
not all, of the necessary inputs to food production onsite. It is also the premise
in the Philippine National Standard for Organic Agriculture. KNF is a holistic
approach to farming that utilizes the nature’s powers for maximum performance
rather than human intervention. “Natural materials instead of chemicals as its
unique inputs. Materials are locally available and cheap, and the farming inputs
are made by the farmers instead of being purchased from the market; thus
lowering cost for the farmers and converting waste into resources. Being
“farmer-friendly,” it is also being used as a tool to improve the living of the
poor farmers in the third world.” (Cho Han Kyu President of Janong Natural
Farming Institute March, 2004).
He attributed Natural Farming to three formless teachers and three human
teachers. The three formless are God, Nature, and conscience. As now being
regarded by many, the gains from `Green Revolution’ is instant but the outcome
is short term. We are now seeing the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers and
pesticides not only on the soil that becomes acidic and low in organic matter,
ground water contamination, adverse health effects but also on social and
economic decay the latter due to the concentration of wealth on a few big
companies.

In contrast, Natural Farming is a sustainable way of farming making use of all

inputs from natural materials, observes the law of Nature and respects the rights
of crops and livestock. It heals the soil damaged by chemicals, herbicide and
machines. In the words of the farmer practitioners… “The soil becomes virgin
again”. And ” With chemical agriculture they get sick before harvesting the rice
paddies, now not anymore”.

Common Fermented Farm Inputs

Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ)

Fermented plant juice (FPJ) or Bless Green Soup or Tenkei Ryokujyu is

made by fermenting plant parts in brown sugar. Sprouts and baby fruits with
high hormone concentration, full grown fruits, flower abundant in honey, and
any plant with strong vigor are good ingredients.
(http://www.janonglove.com/janong/bbs/board.php?bo_table=e_JN5 ).
It is an ingredient in bokashi production and can also be used by applying
directly to soil and plants. FPJ is produced by the fermentation of plant leaves,
grasses, thinned crop plants, auxillary buds and/or young fruits and flowers
(Jensen et al, 2006). It contains plant growth hormones and micronutrients that
stimulate the growth of beneficial microorganisms. The common materials
being used in the Philippines are kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica), sweet potato
(Ipomoea batatas) and kakawate leaves (Gliricidia sepium).

Materials (FPJ)
Plant materials: leaves, grass, buds, young fruits, etc.
Raw sugar or molasses at the rate of 1/3-1/2 of the plant material

Procedure (FPJ)
1. Collect the materials early in the morning. Chop and finely mix these with
sugar or molasses.
2. Place the mixed material in a suitable container such as earthen jar, or plastic
drum if prepared in big volumes
3. Cover the pot or drum with paper or cheese cloth
4. Store in a cool dark place for 7-10 days to allow fermentation. The juice will
change color from dark green to yellow brown or brown and would smell sweet
and alcoholic.
5. After 7-10 days filter the material to extract the juice. Net bag can be used for
small scale production. For big scale FPJ production, an improvised extractor or
press can be used.
6. The FPJ can be stored in a glass or plastic bottle in a cool, dark place for up
to 6 months. It is important not to tighten the cap completely on the bottle to
allow aeration. Shake the bottle once a week to provide air to the
microorganisms.

Application method (FPJ)

Dilute FPJ at the rate of 2 table spoonful per liter of water. Spray to plants or
drench to the soil.

Fermented Fruit Juice (FFJ)

Fermented fruit juice (FFJ) is prepared in a similar manner to fermented

plant juice (FPJ). It is used as a foliar spray to enhance fruit quality, as a feed
supplement for animals, and as a food supplement for humans. In general, FFJ is
generally used more during the flowering and fruiting stage.
Materials (FFJ)
Fruit peelings, over ripe fruits such as banana, papaya, watermelon, pineapple
Raw sugar or molasses
Procedure (FFJ)
1. Chop the over ripe fruits and peelings
2. Mix the materials with ½ part raw sugar or molasses. Other practitioners use
1:1 ratio.
3. Follow the same fermentation procedure as for FPJ.
4. Collect and store following the same procedure as for FPJ.

Application method (FFJ)

Use 1 tsp/5L water (minimum application rate for plants in healthy soil) or 1-2
tsp/L water (for plants in soil that is being rehabilitated) (Jensen et al, 2006).
Apply to plants as a foliar spray.

Fish Amino Acid (Faa)

Fish amino acids are a good source of nitrogen for crop plants and may be
used to supplement compost and manures in coastal regions which have a
good supply of inexpensive fish byproducts. Some local government units
(LGUs) such as Bayawan City in Negros Oriental is collecting fish trashes from
the market for free and process this into FAA.
Materials (FAA)
Uncooked fish trash such as gills and intestines.
Raw sugar or molasses

Procedure (FAA)
1. Mix equal parts fish trash and brown sugar or molasses. Lactic acid bacteria
serum (LABS) may be added to minimize the foul smell.
2. Place in earthen jar or any convenient container, cover with paper and allow
the fish juice to extract and fermentation to occur for 14 days.
3. Filter out the solids and retain the liquid fish amino acids.
4. Store in glass or plastic bottles. Do not completely close the cap on the bottle.
5. Shake the solution weekly and add sugar to it every month (20% of the
volume) as is done for IMO.

Application method (FAA)

Use 1-2 tbsp/L water and apply as soil drench or foliar spray weekly or
depending on the vigor of the plants. High dosage can have adverse effects on
plants.

Calcium Carbonate (Caco3) Preparation from Egg Shells

The main ingredient in eggshells is calcium carbonate. The shell itself is about
95% CaCO3 (which is also the main ingredient in sea shells) (Powrie, 1972).
The remaining mass is composed largely of phosphorus and magnesium, and
trace amounts of sodium, potassium, zinc, manganese, iron, copper and others,
27 in all.

The CaCO3 is not in soluble form. To convert it into soluble form heat or acid
treatment is needed. The common method in KNF is the combination of the two
agents, heating and use of natural vinegars.

Materials (CaCO3)
Egg shells or sea shells including snail shells.
Natural vinegar (made from coconut sap, sugar cane, pineapple or banana).

Procedure (CaCO3)
1. Burn or roast the shells in open fire or over a hot tin sheet until the color
changes from brownish to black in color.
2. Grind or pound the shells to a powder consistency.
3. Place in a suitable jar or plastic container.
4. Add 5-10 parts natural vinegar. Shake to produce bubbles indicating a good
reaction between the shell and the vinegar. The bubbles are due to CO2 being
released.
5. Cover with paper and store in a cool dry place. The concoction may be
shaken from time to time to speed up the reaction.
6. The water soluble calcium is ready in 7-14 days when there is no more
bubbling.
7. Filter the preparation and put it in a new container (a glass jar).
8. CaCO3 has a long shelf life and can be stored for up to a year. Do not shake
or add sugar to the CaCO3 solution during storage.

Application method (CaCO3)

Use 1-2 tablespoon per liter as foliar spray or soil drench specially at the start of
flowering to improve fruit set and fruit quality.

Variations in Materials and Process

1. Materials in FPJ
Different materials are being used by farmers in preparing FPJ. The most
common and easiest to use is banana pseudo stem, particularly the Saba or
Cardaba variety. A high FPJ yield is obtained using this material. Some
practitioners are using just the roots of banana (var. saba) and using spring water
to dilute the FPJ.

2. Materials in FFJ
In FFJ, the materials being used are generally the most commonly available in
the locality. In the case of the SOBAGROMCO squash and banana are the
materials being used. Others use cucumber fruits, pineapple peelings, tomato
and eggplant.

3. Materials in Caphos
The common material is egg shell for CaPhos but in areas where sea shells are
abundant these are also being used. The shells of Golden Snail (Pomacea
canaliculata Lamarck) is also commonly used. In SOBAGROMCO the animal
bones from slaughter houses are collected and converted into organic inputs.

4. Process and Ingredients

There are generally two variations in the preparation of the fermentation
products. The first one is just using the plant or fruit substrate and raw sugar or
molasses. The second one involves the addition of one (1) part unchlorinated
water. Water is added to hasten the fermentation process. Raw sugar or
molasses is also adjusted to 1 part of the plant/fruit material.

To save on raw sugar or molasses, the rate of this ingredient is also being
reduced by some growers to as low as 1/6-1/10 of the plant/fruit parts.

5. Application
The usual application rate is 1-2 tbs/liter of water applied as soil drench or as
foliar spray. The combination of the different ingredients is based on the stage
of plant growth. The KNFA recommends growth management on the basis of
the Nutrioperiodism theory, which was developed and advocated by a Japanese
horticulturist, Yasushi Inoue, in the 1930s. They emphasize the different
nutritional requirements of crop plants at different growth stages. In Bayawan
City, the proportion of the different preparations is 60:30:10 ratios depending on
the stage of the plant. During the vegetative stage, it is 60% FAA, 30% FPJ and
10% FFJ. During the change-over, it is 60% FPJ, 30% FAA and 10% FFJ.
During the fruiting stage, it is 60 % FFJ, 30% FPJ and 10% FAA.
Utilization of the Fermented Farm Products
1. Organic Banana
In organic banana production, the general guidelines in nutrient management are
as follows:
DERMA TEA
66-Year-Old Woman With Baby Face. Here's What
She Does Before Bed
LEARN MORE→

1. Organic manure should only be seen as an additional fertilizer, and not as the
main source of nutrients;
2. Regular application of organic material gained from cutting/pruning work
helps to maintain a layer of humus and activity in the soil;
3. This includes adding dead leaves and pseudo-stems grown on the plantation
as mulching material;
4. It is important that the material is spread evenly throughout the entire
plantation;
5. These measures will suffice to maintain the fertility of the soil on sites suited
to growing bananas, despite continual harvests.

The organic inputs are the foundation of organic banana production in Toril,
Davao City by the Sibulan Organic Banana Growers Multi-Purpose Cooperative
(SOBAGROMCO) and in Tupi, South Cotabato by the Sta Teresita Multi-
Purpose Cooperative. Both cooperatives are using the different natural farm
inputs and have made modifications suitable for their conditions. The proximate
analysis of the fermented inputs in SOBAGROMCO is given below.

The rate of application depends on the soil analysis and target banana yields. In
Toril, Davao City for Bungulan, the fertilization protocol is as follows:

Basal application- 3kg compost, 2kg vermi compost

Side dress- 20kg compost/6 months, 2kg vermicompost/3 months
Soil drench (Hinubig)- FAA, FPJ, FFJ, IMO at 60 ml/mat/month (pure)

2. Organic Pineapple
Among the HVCs, pineapple is probably the most difficult to grow organically
specially for variety MD-2, which is the favorite variety for fresh pineapple for
export. In organic pineapple production, FPJ and FFJ are being used as source
of nutrients in addition to vermicompost and seaweed extract. The material for
FPJ started with the use of swamp cabbage and muscovado sugar. But FPJ yield
is low and cost is high.

The material being used now is banana pseudo stem with molasses instead of
muscovado sugar. The other materials being used include wild sunflower and
lemon grass which is also being used for pest control. The materials for FFJ
includes banana and pineapple. They have also made an improvised press to
facilitate the extraction of the liquids.

3. Organic Vegetables
Bacolod

In Bacolod City, the organization that is pushing forward organic agriculture is

the Negros Island Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Foundation
Inc. (NISARD).
Established as a result of a Memorandum of Agreement between the provinces
of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental, NISARD, is a non-stock non-profit
foundation organization. Among the crops being produced organically by the
members are lettuce, tomato, herbs, beans, sugarcane, banana and citrus
(calamansi). Among the fermented farm inputs being used are FPJ, FFJ,
Caphos, seaweed extract. An assorted of raw materials are being used as
substrate for FFJ and FPJ.

Bayawan City

In Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, the LGU itself is producing the

natural/organic farm inputs. They collect the vegetable trimmings and over-ripe
fruits from the market for FPJ and FFJ. Fish trashes are also collected from the
market for FAA and they use LABS to minimize the foul smell in the FAA. The
farmers make CaPhos using both egg shell and shells of the golden snail. These
products, FPJ, FFJ, FAA and CaPhos are sold to farmers at PhP 50/liter.

Preparations in Bayawan City for the fermented farm inputs has a slight
variation in that water is used in both FPJ and FPJ, generally at about 30% by
weight.

Surallah, South Cotabato

The organic farmers in the Municipality of Surallah are being assisted by The
Don Bosco Foundation for Sustainable Development, Inc. (DBFSDI), formerly
the DonBosco Diocesan Youth Center, Inc. (DBDYCI). The basic production
system is based on Biodynamic Farming but parts of KNF are also being
practiced as well as Agnihotra.

Agnihotra is a healing fire from the ancient science of Ayurveda. It is a process

of purifying the atmosphere through a specially prepared fire performed daily
during sunrise and sunset. It heals the environment and is being used for
gardening and farming. For fruits and vegetables FPJ, FFJ and CaPhos are also
being used.

Looking Forward

While these fermented farm inputs have been adopted by many organic farmers
and the number is increasing, the academe has been slow in integrating these in
their research and development agenda in improving production systems,
largely content mainly on the elemental and inorganic chemistry of nutrient and
pest management. Use of the natural inputs is sometimes regarded as
unscientific. But science is actually just catching up.

Several government agencies and universities are slowly warming up to

organics in general and are now including the natural farm inputs in their
research and development programs as well as in extension. However in
research, there is still the tendency to just `evaluate’ and `confirm’ the effects of
FPJ and FFJ, etc. The research should be at a higher level to contribute
positively to the improvement of these natural farm inputs. These can be
through the use of locally available plant materials with specific growth
promoting effects or addition of other naturally occurring materials/micro
organisms to enhance specific effects.

An intriguing possibility is the integration of the preparation of natural farm

inputs with the concepts in Biodynamic Farming. Such integration will not only
enhance organic or biodynamic farming but will also remove the barriers of
jargon and perception of exclusivity.

Although these preparations can be easily made by farmers themselves, it

would also help more farmers if the preparations can be made
commercially available. While some LGUs are already investing on these, the
numbers are still too few. Several members of the private sector have also
started investing on these natural farm inputs. But a few failed because of some
technical problems on product shelf life and efficacy. Government support in
such undertakings can help a long way in pushing this system of production
so that agriculture can regain the lost virginity of the soil and purity of the
environment.
References

Barcelon, E. J. 2004. Nature Farming Technology Systems. Mindanao Lumad

and Muslim Development Center. 66p
http://www.agnihotra.org/agnihotra.htm
http://janonglove.com/janongusa/intro01.htmlf
http://www.thainaturalfarming.com/index.php?lay=show&ac=article&Id=38076
Jensen, H. L. Guilaran, R. Jaranilla and G. Garingalao. 2006. Organic
amendments adopted and adapted by farmers in the Western Visayas region of
The Philippines. Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Maghirang, R. G. 2008. Organic banana production. Power point presentation
Naturland. 2001. Banana: Organic Farming in the Tropics and Subtropics
Powrie, W.D., 1972. Chemistry of eggs and eggs products. In: egg science and
technology, Stadelman, W.J, and Cotterill, O.J.(Eds), pp (65-91), the AVI
publishing company, INC. Westport, Connecticut.

Rodel G. Maghirang
Institute of Plant Breeding-Crop Science Cluster,
College of Agriculture, University of the Philippines Los Baños,
College, Laguna 4031, 2011-07-13

Source: http://www.agnet.org/library/eb/626/