NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,

MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Introduction

Global climate change has been experienced by almost all of the people around the globe.

It has spread widely in just a span of time. The effects of it are manifested already on the

environment we are living today. Temperatures continue to rise up, glaciers have shrunk and

melted, and droughts become more intense − these are some of the effects of climate change that

people are experiencing today. To be further specific, these have caused our soils to become

acidic. Farmers even put fertilizers just to ameliorate the acidity of the soil. And sometimes, the

use of too much fertilizers particularly nitrogen can give soil surface acidification. A weed can

also acidify the soil even if fertilizers are not used through the nitrogen that came from the soil’s

organic matter or from symbiotic nitrogen fixation. (Garden Myth, 2009).

Soil acidification is a natural process accelerated by agriculture. Soil acidifies because the

concentration of hydrogen ions in the soil increases. The main cause of soil acidification is

inefficient use of nitrogen, followed by the export of alkalinity in produce. Ammonium based

fertilizers are major contributors to soil acidification. Ammonium nitrogen is readily converted

to nitrate and hydrogen ions in the soil. If nitrate is not taken-up by plants, it can leach away

from the root zone leaving behind hydrogen ions thereby increasing soil acidity. Most plant

material is slightly alkaline and removal by grazing or harvest leaves residual hydrogen ions in

the soil. Over time, as this process is repeated, the soil becomes acidic (Rural Solutions, 2001).

There are different types of soil that can be classified according their texture, how it holds

water and how it’s managed.. According to Larabie (2007) Sandy soil is made of larger, gritty

particles that don’t stick together well. It’s much easier to dig than clay soil and it warms up

more quickly because it has better aeration or air flow which will allow to us to plant earlier.

1
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Because it is looser than clay soil it lets moisture and nutrients flow through it too easily which

means sandy soil can become acidic.

Most tree leaves ends up getting recycled or burned up for energy but it can be useful for

a handful of ways. One of the ways is to improve the soil. It can prevent from causing the soil to

have a low alkalinity. The mango leaves are reddish or purplish when tender and new, and grow

into dark green color and have pale underside. These leaves are rich in vitamins C, and B and A.

they also rich in varies other nutrient that can be helpful to improve the soil. (Andres, 2016)

However, Horticulturist Robert Richter (2009) stated that people can take advantage of the

technique called mulch blanket. Put a blanket of fallen leaves over the soil to prevent weeds from

coming up, to retain the moisture of the soil, improve soil texture and deter some pests. Fallen

leaves are natural and self-sustaining fertilizers.

Barbara (2013) states that majority of the population knows that egg shell is the outer

coating of an egg. Consequently, they acquired little knowledge about it. Egg shells can provide

beneficial calcium to plants without hurting the pH like liming does.  It can provide aeration as

well. It is a semi permeable membrane, which means that air and moisture can pass through its

pores. The shell also has a thin outermost coating called the bloom or cuticle that helps keep out

bacteria and dust. With the use of egg shells, it can maintain the pH level of the soil and prevent

it from becoming highly acidic which could result from the struggle of absorbing certain

nutrients that could be bad for the soil.

Wood ashes are the residue left from the combustion of wood. It often has a high pH

(above 7) and a relatively high content of calcium and phosphorus it was shown that it can be

used to raise PH in soils. Wood ashes can also be used as an organic fertilizer used to enrich

2
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

agricultural soil nutrition. In this role, wood ashes could serve as a source of potassium and

calcium carbonate, the latter acting as a liming agent to neutralize acidic soils.

Wood ashes from the fireplace or wood stove may be used to supply both calcium and

potassium to soil. The pH level of the soil is measured on a scale of 0 to 14, with category 7.0

being neutral. Target pH for growing a garden is in category 6.5 which is slightly acidic. Wood

ash works best if the soil’s pH level is acidic which is below 6.5. Wood ash is high in calcium

content which would cause the pH level of the soil to rise. When wood ash is used at pH levels

above 6.5, interference with plant growth may occur as the alkalinity level of the soil increases.

However, since the three (3) organic mulches such as pulverized eggshells, wood ashes &

mango tree’s dried leaves were already proven that they can be used as neutralizing agents for

treating the soil’s acidity. The combination of the three (3) mulches could be more helpful and

useful considering it has more nutrients that could prevent the soil from getting a high risk of

being acidic and has more calcium & potassium that can help to exclude the acidity and causes

the pH level of the soil increases.

3
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Statement of the Problem

This study mainly focuses on neutralizing acidic soil with the use of different organic

mulches. It aims to answer the following questions:

1. Is there a significant difference in pH level of the soil after being covered with the

different organic mulches for:

a. 1 week

b. 2 weeks

c. 3 weeks

2. Is there a significant difference in the effectiveness of the different organic mulches?

3. Is there a significant difference in the pH level of the soil treated with organic

mulches in terms of the soil’s depths:

a. 5 cm

b. 10 cm

c. 15 cm

Hypothesis

This study is subjected to hypothesis testing to determine whether the claims regarding a

population are likely to be true

1. There is no significant difference in pH level of the soil after being covered with the

different organic mulches?

a. 1 week

b. 2 weeks

4
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

c. 3 weeks

2. There is no significant difference in the effectiveness of the different organic

mulches?

3. There is no significant difference in the pH level of the soil treated with organic

mulches in terms of the soil’s depths:

a. 5 cm

b. 10 cm

c. 15 cm

Significance of the Study

This study entitled Neutralizing Acidic Soil Using Chicken White Egg Shells, Mango

Leaves, Wood Ash, and the Combination of the Chicken White Egg Shells, Mango Leaves, and

Wood Ash will be conducted to benefit the following:

To the department of agriculture. This study aims to help the Philippine

Agriculture to grow by finding ways to obtain optimum support for neutralizing soil

acidity. It helps the Filipino people to grow plants in better soil quality and aims to utilize

the full potential of the study. It aims to inform the public that the study conducted was

eco-friendly and low-cost efficient as well.

To the community. This study aims to support the public by the low-cost

efficiency of it. It also helps to grow and cultivate healthy plants with the use of proper

soil coverings and be efficient in neutralizing soil acidity.

5
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

To the farmers. This study aims to give better insight and knowledge on

neutralizing the soil that will make the crops to grow fully and healthily. It will enable the

farmers to understand why the soil becomes acidic and will give a further explanation as

to how it can be neutralized. The results of the study could be implied to their farms and

fields as well.

To the future researchers. This study aims to serve as a guide and reference for

the researchers undertaking similar studies.

Definition of Terms

To be more familiarize and fully understand the terms of this study, the following

conceptual are given:

Ameliorate - to make a bad or unpleasant situation better.

Acidification - the increase of hydrogen ions on the soil causing the soil to become acidic.

Legume - it is used to refer to plants, peas, beans, and other related vegetables.

Rototill - to dig using a machine that consists of a series of blades mounted on a revolving

power-driven shaft.

Tillage - agricultural preparation and manipulation of soil by mechanical agitation or means.

Mulch Blankets - any material that is spread or laid over the surface of the soil as a covering.

Aeration - involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water and nutrients to

penetrate the grass roots.

Soil pH - it is the measurement of the alkalinity or acidity of soil. It also defined as the

negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration. (Iannoti, 2018).

6
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Soil Quality - it covers all factors that influence plant growth, including nutrient availability,

soil structure, pH and biological factors like the presence if plant pest. (Kok, 1993).

Liming - a traditional procedure in preparing soil for planting. It is the application of

calcium- and magnesium-rich materials to soil.

Nitrogenous Fertilizer - it is a inorganic production that can be transported to the soil to

enrich it more or less instantaneously. It was a common fertilizer for plants only and it

contains ammonium sulfate and calcium.

Scope and Limitations

This study entitled Neutralizing Acidic Soil Using Chicken White Egg Shells, Mango

Leaves, Wood Ash, and the Combination of the Chicken White Egg Shells, Mango Leaves, and

Wood Ash was conducted at Villanueva’s Residence, Camp Tinio, Cabanatuan City. It would

only consist of soil, acidic solution, different soil coverings and soil containers. This study only

focused on neutraliziing the acidity of the soil using the combination of the different mulch

blankets. This study was conducted with a small amount of financial fund and a limited time

framework. It also aims to be low-cost efficient since the materials needed are cheap and can be

bought at a reasonable price. GAWIN NIYONG MAS SPECIFIC TO. BAGUHIN NIYO YUNG

IBANG SENTENCES SAKA PAKIDAGDAGAN. GAWIN NIYONGPAST TENSE LAHAT.

SAKA YUNG TITLE NATIN KAPANGET LAGYAN NIYO NG LANTOD LIKE

SCIENTIFIC NAMES.

7
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Review of Related Literatures

Soil cover can reduce soil moisture loss. In contrast, some growers use cover crops such

as rye as a way to reduce soil moisture in early spring. The crop takes up the soil moisture and

uses it within the plant. The water is incorporated in the plant tissues or is transpired. In both

cases, the water is removed from the soil. This use of cover crops requires very good

management and understanding of plant growth habits. Under warm wet conditions some cover

crops can become very difficult to control either with tillage or chemically. Also, under dry

spring conditions the cover crop should be controlled earlier to prevent excessive moisture loss,

which may interfere with crop establishment and growth (OMAFRA, 2011).

As a result of soil cover, agricultural production subsequently improves because soil

cover both promotes and maintains optimum soil conditions for plant growth when it comes to

nutrient availability and water infiltration. Soil cover protects the surface of the soil from rain,

wind, and sun. It reduces soil erosion and protects the fertile topsoil, thus preventing the silting

of rivers and lakes. It suppresses weeds by smothering their growth and reducing the number of

weed seeds as well. Consequently, this reduces the amount of work needed for weeding. It also

helps to increase the soil’s fertility and the soil’s organic matter content. LAGYAN NIYO NG

CITATION DAHIL RRL TO IBIG SABIHIN MAY PINAGKUHANAN TAYO NG INFO.

8
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Sandy soil has the largest particles among the different soil types. It’s dry and gritty to

the touch, and because the particles have huge spaces between them, it can’t hold on to water.

Water drains rapidly, straight through to places where the roots, particularly those of seedlings,

cannot reach. Plants don’t have a chance of using the nutrients in sandy soil more efficiently as

they’re swiftly carried away by the runoff. The upside to sandy soil is that it’s light to work with

and warms much more quickly in the spring. Testing what type of soil you’re working with

involves moistening the soil and rolling it into a ball to check the predominating soil particle.

When you roll the slightly wet sandy soil in your palms, no ball should be formed and it

crumbles through your fingers easily (PLTA, 2013).

A study is conducted to use the eggshells to reduce the acidity of the soil. The acidic

soil has resulted from an inorganic fertilizer application series. Then, farmers and gardeners treat

lime in their fields and gardens to re-live and neutralize the soil. Calcium carbonate, which is

important in neutralizing the soil, is made of lime. Calcium carbonate found in the eggshell can

be used as a substitute for lime. Researchers prepared six different set-ups with different eggs

and soil. The effect of eggs in acidic soil is observed over ten days, showing changes in the pH

range of the soil. There is also a change in the growth of plants, especially the height of

seedlings, the number of leaves and sprouting duration. Eggs can be definitely a substitute for

lime. The use of eggs can help farmers and gardeners increase crop production. [ CITATION

Awa02 \l 1033 ].

Land acidity limits the soil microbial work and biodiversity as well as crop yields. The

Forest Industry of Basque Country generates a large amount of wood ash which is considered a

useless waste. In this context, a field assay was established to study the effect of using the

wood’s acidity, fertility, biological soil quality (i.e. soil enzymes, potentially mineralized

9
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

nitrogen, respiration, abundance of earthworms, and microbial metabolic profile of the

community) when subjected to a common acidic soil of this region. This effect is also compared

with that of lime (CaO), applied at the same rate of Ca. In March 2005, three contiguous areas of

Lolium multiflorum Lam. received the following treatments, respectively: (1) ash (15.5 t ha-1 of

wood ash and N), (2) lime (1.1 t ha-1 CaO and N-P-K fertilizer with equal doses of nutrients)

and (3) no addition. A diverse native plant is also studied to act as the control group (treatment

4). Lupa and Herbage samplings were made in May 2005. The results of the study showed that

ash wood can be a useful alternative in correcting the soil’s acidity, and a useful way of using

waste materials.

The absence of acid soils is a major limitation to crop production in highly weathered

and leached soils around the world. The main properties of soils are their low pH, low organic

matter, Ca, Mg, P, or Mo deficiency, Al or Mn toxicity, or both, and very low mineralization and

nitrification rate. Lime is generally recommended to correct soil acidity, but lime is not

equivalent to resource-poor tropical agriculturists. Many alternatives are suggested, and among

them are the products from organic waste. Composts have proven to be a great alternative to lime

use. Wood ash is a potential source of trace elements, nutrients, and lime. Wood ash can be used

as an additive to manure, and wood ash admixture in organic wastes before composting is known

to improve compost quality and may reduce the amount of compost required to increase the pH

at the appropriate levels. The wood ash compost as a liming agent will potentially help in

remediating acidity and base deficiency of the soil as well as strengthening the ground microbial

pools in tropical agricultural soils. ITO DIN GAWIN NIYO.

Excess soil acidification caused by fertilizers is a major factor in world‐wide soil

deterioration. Fertilizers, particularly nitrogen, acidify soil mostly when used inefficiently (in

10
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

excess of crop needs). Acidity is otherwise caused by differential cation‐anion uptake by plants

which vary with species. A crop can acidify the soil whether or not commercial fertilizers are

used, like if the nitrogen came from the soil organic matter or from symbiotic nitrogen fixation.

When the exact amount of nitrogen that is needed is applied to land, little acidification results

unless non-tillage is practiced to give soil surface acidification. In that case the acidification can

equal the theoretical. For ammonium‐N, the theoretical is twice the value given in fertilizer

handbooks and if there are no plant roots in the soil surface, the full acidification effect is

expressed (Wallace, 2008).

Wood ash is composed of many major and minor elements needed by the tree for plant

growth. Since most of these elements are extracted from the soil and atmosphere during the

tree’s growth cycle, they are elements that are common in our environment and are also essential

elements in the production of crops and forages. Calcium is the most abundant element in wood

ash and gives the ash properties that are similar to agricultural lime. Ash is also a good source of

potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and aluminum. In terms of commercial fertilizer, average

wood ash would probably be about 0-1-3 (N-P-K). In addition to these macronutrients, wood ash

is a good source of many micronutrients that are needed in trace amounts for adequate plant

growth. Wood ash contains few elements that pose environmental problems. Heavy metal

concentrations are typically low and not in a highly extractable or available form.

Mango leaves are full of healing and medicinal properties. Benefits of mango leaves are

so varied and extensive that they are given immense importance in eastern medicine too. They

are reddish or purplish when tender and new, and grow into a dark green color and have a pale

underside. These leaves are fleshy and shiny with a sharp tip containing with vitamin C, B and

A. They are also rich in various other nutrients. These leaves have powerful antioxidant

11
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

properties as they have a high content of flavonoids and phenols. The antioxidant and

antimicrobial properties of mango leave can help treat various ailments effectively. (Agarwal,

2018).

METHODOLOGY

This chapter will elaborate the methods to be followed in conducting the study. The

content of this chapter is designed to contribute to the existing knowledge and to connect and

address the gap in knowledge. This chapter encompasses the methods of research to be used,

data collection procedure, materials, research design, sampling technique, data gathering

technique, and statistical treatment of data to be used in this research study.

Research Method

The method of research to be used in this study is Experimental Research Random Block

Design in which the data to be gathered is directly obtained from the experiments.

Conceptual Framework

The conceptual framework presents the goals to be achieved by this research study. This

provides the outline of how the researchers will conduct the experiments.

12
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Soil’s pH Level Different Soil Covers Duration of the

Experiment
Independent Variable Independent Variable
Independent Variable

Neutralizing Soil
Acidity

Dependent Variable

Figure 1: Conceptual Framework

The researchers measure the soil’s pH level before and after covering the soil with

different covers. The duration of the experiment would possibly affect the outcome. And with

that, the researchers could finally be able to determine if the different soil coverings can really

neutralize the soil’s acidity. MASYADONG MAIKLI.

Materials GAWING SPECIFIC. KAILANGAN MAY AMOUNT YAN KUNWARI

CONTAINERS 12 PIECES.

The materials needed in this study are the following:

1. Wood Ashes

2. Fallen Dried Leaves

3. Chicken White Egg Shells

4. Acidic Soil

5. Containers

6. Soil pH Meter

Data Gathering Procedures

13
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

This part of the methodology presents how the researchers will gather the data which

consists of series of procedures to be followed.

Phase 2.
Phase 1.
Measure the pH level of the soil. Divide the
Gather the needed materials.
soil into nine (12) equal parts.

Phase 3.
Phase 4.
Lay the four (4) different coverings on top
in 12 separate containers with the equally
of the soil in separate containers
distributed soils..
respectively.

Figure 2: Research Paradigm of General Procedures

The figure above shows the research paradigm of the general procedures. It involves

phases or steps that will be used for the completion of the experiment. For the first phase, gather

the materials needed for the experiment, such as soil, soil pH meter, fallen dried mango leaves,

chicken crushed white egg shells, wood ashes, and lastly combined organic mulch. Second,

Measure the pH level of the soil and divide it into twelve (12) equal parts. Third, overlay the

different covers such as wood ash, fallen dried mango leaves, crushed chicken white egg shells,

combined organic mulch on top of the soil in twelve (12) containers separately. Distribute the

different coverings with 3 replicates in their containers respectively. Fourth and last, after

leaving it for different periods of time, measure the pH levels of the soils to determine whether

there is a change in pH level. PAST TENSE

ENUMERATE NIYO KUNG PANO GINAWA LIKE THIS OH. KILA ASHLEY YAN.

Rice Straw Preparation:

1. The 1 kg. freshly gathered rice straw were washed and cut into smaller pieces ranging

from 1-2 inches in length.

14
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

2. The other 1 kg. of freshly gathered Oryza sativa straw were sun dried for one day from

8:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

3. The sun dried Oryza sativa straw were cut into smaller pieces ranging from 1-2 inches in

length.

Macerated-solution Preparation:

1. The pieces of the freshly gathered Oryza sativa straw were submerged into 1.5 liters of

boiled water.

2. The pieces of the dried gathered Oryza sativa straw were submerged into 1.5 liters of

boiled water.

Hydroponic Set-up:

1. A styrofoam box with a dimension of 24 inches x 15.5 inches x 4.5 inches was utilized

for the hydroponic setup.

2. The black bag was cut widely in order to cover the interior portion of the styrofoam box.

3. Three (3) holes were cut out at the top cover of the styrofoam box, having a distance of

three (3) inches from one another.

4. Plastic cups that served as the planters were prepared by cutting it about 2 inches

vertically and cutting the bottom part wherein the cuts will not meet at the center.

5. The solution was placed inside the styrofoam box with a ratio of 1:2; 1.5 liters of the

solution and 1.5 liters of water.

15
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

6. The cups were then placed on the holes before completely sealing the set-up with

masking tape.

7. The plants were then exposed to sunlight every day for 10 hours, from 7 AM to 5 PM

pH Kit Testing:

1. The clean test tube was filled with 5 mL of the solution to be tested.

2. Three (3) drops of the pH test solution were added to the solution.

3. The cap was then placed on the test tube and the test tube was inverted several times to

mix the solution.

4. The test results were read by comparing the color of the solution to the pH color chart.

The test tube was viewed in a well-lit area. The closest match indicated the pH of the

sample.

Research Design

The researchers will be using True Experimental Research Design in this study in which

the participants are selected randomly and the researchers has a complete control over the

variables. PAST TENSE

Table 1. Research Design for the pH level of the acidic soil treated with various organic mulches.

T1
Control Group Soil covered T3 T4
T2
pH level of the with Soil Combined
Soil covered with
soil before Pulverized Fallen Dried Mango
covered Organic
treatment Chicken Leaves with Wood Mulch
White Egg Ashes
Shells
R1
R2

16
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

R3

The table 1 shows the experimental research design for the pH level of the acidic soil

treated with various organic mulches. It determined the pH level of the soil which was treated

within three (3) week time. The four (4) treatments will all have three (3) replicates to ensure the

reliability of the results in order for the researchers to draw conclusions. The researchers added a

control group to serve as a pre-test; it was used as a baseline to compare and assess the effect of

the different treatments.

Sampling Technique

The sampling technique to be used in this study is Purposive Sampling – a type of Non-

Probability Sampling.

Data Collection Technique

First, observe the acidity of the soil, measure the soil’s pH level before the overlaying of

the different soil covers. Second, monitor the soil every one (1) week until the observation has

finished. Third, measure the soil’s pH level after the overlaying of the four (4) different soil

covers. Fourth and last, analyze and interpret the data gathered. GAWIN NIYONG SPECIFIC

MASYADONG GENERAL E.

ENUMERATE NIYO KUNG PANO GINAWA LIKE THIS OH. KILA ASHLEY YAN.

Rice Straw Preparation:

4. The 1 kg. freshly gathered rice straw were washed and cut into smaller pieces ranging

from 1-2 inches in length.

17
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

5. The other 1 kg. of freshly gathered Oryza sativa straw were sun dried for one day from

8:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

6. The sun dried Oryza sativa straw were cut into smaller pieces ranging from 1-2 inches in

length.

Macerated-solution Preparation:

3. The pieces of the freshly gathered Oryza sativa straw were submerged into 1.5 liters of

boiled water.

4. The pieces of the dried gathered Oryza sativa straw were submerged into 1.5 liters of

boiled water.

Hydroponic Set-up:

8. A styrofoam box with a dimension of 24 inches x 15.5 inches x 4.5 inches was utilized

for the hydroponic setup.

9. The black bag was cut widely in order to cover the interior portion of the styrofoam box.

10. Three (3) holes were cut out at the top cover of the styrofoam box, having a

distance of three (3) inches from one another.

11. Plastic cups that served as the planters were prepared by cutting it about 2 inches

vertically and cutting the bottom part wherein the cuts will not meet at the center.

12. The solution was placed inside the styrofoam box with a ratio of 1:2; 1.5 liters of

the solution and 1.5 liters of water.

18
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

13. The cups were then placed on the holes before completely sealing the set-up with

masking tape.

14. The plants were then exposed to sunlight every day for 10 hours, from 7 AM to 5

PM

pH Kit Testing:

5. The clean test tube was filled with 5 mL of the solution to be tested.

6. Three (3) drops of the pH test solution were added to the solution.

7. The cap was then placed on the test tube and the test tube was inverted several times to

mix the solution.

8. The test results were read by comparing the color of the solution to the pH color chart.

The test tube was viewed in a well-lit area. The closest match indicated the pH of the

sample.

Statistical Treatment of Data

The Statistical tool used in this study was ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) for testing

effectiveness of the different treatments in neutralizing the soil’s pH level. PADAGDAGAN NG

EXPLANATION.

19
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Science of Eggs: Anatomy of an Egg | Exploratorium. (2015). Retrieved from

https://www.exploratorium.edu/cooking/eggs/eggcomposition.html

Farming Systems and Soil Acidity. (2018). Retrieved from

http://www.agbureau.com.au/projects/soil_acidity/ABA_WS_1aa_Farming_systems_-

_final_.pdf

Pierre, W. (2013). Nitrogenous fertilizers and soil acidity. Retrieved from AGRIS:

http://agris.fao.org/agris-search/search.do?recordID=US201301759348

Stauffer, B., Carle, N., & Spuhler, D. (2018). Soil Cover and Reforestation | SSWM - Find tools

for sustainable sanitation and water management!. Retrieved from

20
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

https://sswm.info/water-nutrient-cycle/water-use/hardwares/conservation-soil-

moisture/soil-cover-and-reforestation

Mulches and mulching. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=323

Ball, J. (1999). Understanding and Correcting Soil Acidity. Retrieved from

https://www.noble.org/news/publications/ag-news-anviews/1999/january/understanding-

and-correcting-soil-acidity/

Provident Living Today. (2009). Types of Soil. Retrieved from http://www.provident-living-

today.com/Types-of-Soil.html#Acidic-Soils

Kid’s Valley Garden. (2003). Sandy Soil. Retrieved from

http://www.typodermic.com/garden/sand.html

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The researchers put the soil in a large container and measure its pH level before they

were divided into nine (9) containers with the same variant and before they were subjected for

various analyses. The different treatments applied to cover the top of the soil were distributed

equally to achieve the best outcome.

Table 2. Initial Measurement of the soil’s pH level.

Treatment T1 T2 T3
Soil covered with Soil covered with Fallen Soil covered with Wood
Replicate Pulverized Egg Shells Leaves Ashes
R1 5 5 5
R2 5 5 5
R3 5 5 5

21
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Table 2 shows the initial measurement of the soil’s pH level in which they all possess the

same pH level before they were subjected into three (3) different treatments in seven (7) days.

Table 3. Final Measurement of the soil’s pH level.

Treatment T1 T2 T3
Soil covered with Soil covered with Fallen Soil covered with Wood
Replicate Pulverized Egg Shells Leaves Ashes
R1 7.5 8 7
R2 8 7.5 7.5

R3 7.5 7.5 7.5

Table 3 shows the final measurement of the soil’s pH level after the treatments were

administered. The aforementioned results showed that the pH levels of the replicated soils

covered with Wood Ashes were close to each other and close to the neutral soil pH level which is

7. It also indicates that the pH level of the soils treated with different coverings showed evident

changes in neutralizing the pH level of the acidic soil in comparison to the pH level of 5 of the

soil in Pre-Test.

22
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Statistical Analysis

The Statistical tools used in this study were ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) for testing

the significant difference between the effectiveness of the different treatments in neutralizing the

soil’s pH level and T-test for testing the significant difference between the Soil with the same pH

level and the soil treated with different coverings such as Pulverized Egg Shells, Fallen Leaves,

and Wood Ashes.

Table 4.1t-Test results for Egg Shells as a soil covering.

Pre-Test Post-Test
Before Treatment After Treatment
R1 5 7.5
R2 5 8
R3 5 7.5

Table 4.1 shows the results of the Pre-Test and Post-Test of the Egg Shells as a soil

covering . T-test Paired Two Samples for Mean was conducted to compare the pH level of the

soil subjected to the treatment which is Pulverized Egg Shells on the Pre-Test and Post-Test

period. The t-Test showed that there is a significant difference between the before (M=5 ; SD=0)

and after subjecting the Pulverized Egg Shells on top of the soil (M=7.67 ; SD=0.29); p=0.0039.

Table 4.2 t-Test results for Fallen Leaves as a soil covering.

Pre-Test Post-Test
Before Treatment After Treatment
R1 5 8
R2 5 7.5

23
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

R3 5 7.5

Table 4.2indicates the results of the Pre-Test and Post-Test of the Fallen Leaves as a soil

covering. T-test Paired Two Samples for Mean was conducted to compare the soil’s pH level on

a Pre-Test and Post-Test period. The t-Test showed that there is a significant difference between

the before (M=5 ; SD=0) and after subjecting the Fallen Leaves on top of the soil (M=7.67 ;

SD=0.29); p=0.0039. The table above also showed that the Pulverized Egg Shells and the Fallen

Leaves as treatments yielded the same result.

Table 4.3 t-Test results for Wood Ashes as a soil covering.

Pre-Test Post-Test
Before Treatment After Treatment
R1 5 7
R2 5 7.5
R3 5 7.5

Table 4.3 shows the results Pre-Test and Post-Test of the Wood Ashes as a soil

covering. T-test Paired Two Samples for Mean was conducted to compare the soil’s pH level on

a Pre-Test and Post-Test period. The t-Test showed that there is a significant difference between

the soil’s initial pH level(M=5 ; SD=0) and the soil’s pH level after subjecting Wood Ashes on

top of the soil (M=7.33 ; SD=0.29); p=0.0051.

Table 5.1Summary of the results of the ANOVA Single Factor for the soil’s pH level.

SUMMARY
Groups Count Sum Average Varianc
e
Soil covered with Pulverized Egg 3 23 7.66666 0.08333
Shells 7 3
Soil covered with Fallen Leaves 3 23 7.66666 0.08333
7 3
Soil covered with Wood Ashes 3 22 7.33333 0.08333

24
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

3 3

Table 5.1 discusses the summary of results of the ANOVA Single Factor for the soil’s pH

level wherein the soil covered with Wood Ashes yielded the lowest numerical values in sum and

average, thus the pH level of the soil covered with Wood Ashes was determined to be the closest

to the neutral pH level. Different treatments with the same Standard Deviation of 0.29 differs on

their mean pH level: the average pH level of the soil covered with Wood Ashes was 7.33, the

average pH level of the soil covered with Pulverized Egg Shells was 7.67, andthe average pH

level of the soil covered with Fallen Leaves was 7.67. The two latter treatments were categorized

as slightly alkaline.

Table 5.2 Complete results of the ANOVA Single Factor for the soil’s pH level.

ANOVA
Source of Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit
Between Groups 0.22222 2 0.11111 1.33333 0.331816 5.14325
2 1 3 1 3
Within Groups 0.5 6 0.08333
3

Total 0.72222 8
2

Table 5.2 discusses the full results of the ANOVA Single Factor for the soil’s pH level.

The p-value of 0.33 is greater than the significance level of 5%. Therefore, there is no significant

difference between the different treatments that were administered on the soil.

25
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions

The researchers conclude that the most efficient and effective soil covering among the

treatments in neutralizing the soil’s pH level based on the conducted experiment and the yielded

result is Wood Ash. It has showed that from the soil’s acidic pH level of 5 it went up into a

neutral pH level category of 7.

As for the remaining two treatments – Pulverized Egg Shells and Fallen Leaves, the

treatments fell in the alkaline pH level category of 8. Therefore, they cannot be used as a

covering agent or mulch blanket in neutralizing the soil’s acidity. Though it failed to neutralized

the acidity of the soil, it has proven the notion that alkalinity is caused by the presence of

calcium. Egg shells are rich in calcium-carbonate and so as Fallen Leaves.

The treatments used in the experiment have yielded a result of slightly alkaline and

neutral state of the soil’s pH level. The optimum pH range for most plants is between 5.5 and 7.

However, many plants have adapted to thrive at pH values outside this range. Thus, it can be

concluded that the treatments that the researchers used can be utilized to raise the pH level of the

acidic soil and reach their optimum potential in yielding crops.

26
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Recommendations

For the future researchers, we, the researchers would like recommend the following to further

develop and explore the study we have conducted:

1. Use different organic matters as treatments so it would be cost-efficient and low-cost.

2. Conduct the experimentation in a longer period of time for more a more validated and

concrete results.

3. Focus on the soil’s pH level and the factors that might affect the study.

4. In-depth exploration is needed to gain more knowledge about soil’s acidity and its

background.

27
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Appendices

Appendix A: Materials

28
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

First Second Third Second Second Second Third First

29
NEUTRALIZING SOIL ACIDITY USING PULVERIZED WHITE CHICKEN EGG SHELLS,
MANGO TREE DRIED LEAVES, WOOD ASHES, AND THE COMBINATION OF

Week Week Week Week of Week Week week Week of

of of of Septembe of of of February
August August August r 2018 Octobe January January 2019
2018 2018 2018 r 2018 2019 2019
Gathering
of
Materials
Start of the
Treatment
Monitor
the
Treatment
for 3
Weeks
Observe
the Result
of the
Treatment
Finishing
The
Manusript
for Pre-
Oral
Defense
Revising
the
Manuscript
Starting of
the
Treatment
for
Combining
the 3
mulches
Result of
the
Treatment
Finishing
the
Manuscript

30