Professional Documents
Culture Documents
A Quantitative Research
presented to the Basic Education Department of
PILAR COLLEGE OF ZAMBOANGA CITY, INC.
R.T. Lim, Boulevard, Zamboanga City
May 2022
i
ABSTRACT
A growing medium is used in the agriculture and horticulture industry, which helps ensure
the plant's growth, improving the soil structure. Peat has been the most common material used in
a growing medium. However, Peat as a growing medium has caused increased environmental and
ecological concerns in recent years since its harvest threatens endangered wetland ecosystems
worldwide. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a popular salad crop with the largest production area
globally, but the production may be limited due to a lack of new manufacturing techniques. To
produce high-quality crops and maintain a healthy lettuce plant, Lettuce requires suitable soil.
With this, making the best growing medium can improve the growth of Lettuce. An experimental
research study using a completely randomized design aimed to evaluate the growth of Lettuce in
response to the application of Rice husk ash (RHA) as a growing medium. Specifically, it sought
to find out the significant difference in lettuce growth between the five RHA treatments, rates at
(0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) in terms of the plant height, stem length, area of leaves, and the
number of leaves and which among them produces the best results. Based on the average results,
the First treatment with 20% RHA has the highest average in terms of all variables, which means
that it is the most effective on the growth of Lettuce, while the Control treatment with 0% RHA
has the lowest among other treatments. The results imply that the Rice husk ash (RHA) effectively
improves plant growth, specifically the lettuce plant. This study concluded that all treatments
containing different percentages of RHA rates at (20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) have the potential to
improve lettuce plant growth due to its silica contents, resulting in healthy plant growth.
ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The fulfillment of this research would be impossible without the help of our merciful God
and the people who contributed much to its success. Praise and appreciation to the Almighty
God/Allah for blessing our research, directing us, and giving us the strength and determination to
finish it. We thank everything he has done for us. Our immense appreciation goes to Mr. Ronald
Soriano, our honorable Practical Research teacher, a virtuous man, an excellent lecturer, and a
friend. Despite all the stress and tight schedule, he made time to go through our work with all our
mistakes and help make the necessary corrections. The researchers were grateful to him for guiding
and supporting us throughout the process of making this research paper, enabling us to conduct
the study experiment within the school, and assisting with the construction of the lettuce plants'
mini greenhouse. It would be tough to complete without his directions and support. We pray that
the Lord will award him in double folds and according to the riches in glory. For the success of
this study, we would like to extend our gratitude to the school principal and management of Pilar
College of Zamboanga City for the support, allowing us to conduct our study within the school.
Our sincere gratitude goes to our loving and ever-caring parents, who helped and supported us
financially by successfully providing the necessary materials to conduct our research experiment.
This research study has been successful because of the support and hard work that each researcher
has provided. This project would not have been achievable without collaboration, hard work, and
teamwork. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to ourselves, with each member providing
valuable information, efforts, and consideration and playing their role well in completing this
research study.
iii
DEDICATION
This study is sincerely dedicated to our beloved parents and family, who have been our
primary source of inspiration and information. They have always encouraged us to perform our
work and provided us with moral and financial support. The researchers would want to express
their gratitude to everyone who has supported and believed in them. This research will benefit
more individuals in the future because the researchers worked hard to conduct it. We also dedicate
this work to our friends and classmates, who extend their help when we encounter problems while
doing this work. Above all, to our Almighty God/Allah, who has bestowed His blessings on us in
our daily lives, particularly for the strength, courage, patience, wisdom, time, and guidance in
iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
TITLE PAGE……………………………………………………………………………... i
ABSTRACT………………………………………………………………………………. ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT………………………………………………………………... iii
DEDICATION………………………………………………………………………......... iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS………………………………………………………………… v
I. INTRODUCTION
III. METHODOLOGY
v
IV. PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA
4.3 Discussion………………………………………………………………….............. 30
5.1 Conclusions………………………………………………………………………… 33
5.2 Recommendations………………………………………………………………….. 34
BIBLIOGRAPHY...………………………………………………………………………. 36
APPENDICES
Appendix A………………………………………………………………………………... 41
Appendix B……………………………………………………………………………….... 42
Appendix C………………………………………………………………………………… 43
Appendix D………………………………………………………………………………… 51
vi
LIST OF FIGURES
PAGE
vii
Chapter I
INTRODUCTION
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a nutritious vegetable usually eaten raw in salads. Lettuce
contains vitamin C and K and phenolic chemicals and fiber, all of which contribute to its health
benefits. Lettuce is a popular salad crop with the largest production area globally. Many countries
have their lettuce farms due to their consumers and producers, but lettuce production may be
limited due to a lack of new manufacturing techniques. To produce high-quality crops and maintain
a healthy lettuce plant, lettuce requires suitable soil. With this, making the best growing medium
Fertilizers for agriculture are those that aid in the growth of plants. Many people use
organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, to blend into the soil where the plants will grow.
Chicken manure is a good soil fertilizer because it gives plants nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium. Chemical fertilizers can also be used, but they can cause issues like nutrient loss,
Rice husk ash (RHA) is a by-product of the milling process made up of the outer section
of the rice grain. Since rice is one of the most commonly farmed food crops, roughly 150 million
tons of rice hulls are generated as an unavoidable agricultural waste item worldwide when rice is
separated from paddy. RHA is a waste product produced in large quantities and can pollute the
environment if not correctly utilized. Rice hulls, a soil amendment, which can improve the soil's
drainage, aeration, and water holding capacity, are high in silica. Silica in rice husk can be helpful
1
to many plants, especially in rice crops. It can decrease some toxic elements and increase the
biomass of food crops. When carbonized, rice husk has a high drainage capacity, is easy to handle,
and is light in weight. It has a slightly alkaline pH, is flocculated, and is pathogen and nematode
free. It has appropriate K and Ca, two critical macronutrients for plant development. Carbonized
rice husk can be employed in substrates because it provides root penetration and air exchange (Sale
et al., 2021).
The use of a potting medium, or what is labeled as "growing media," is used in the
agriculture and horticulture industry, which can help ensure the plant's growth. This material
consists of peat moss, sand, compost, and vermiculite mixed in the soil where plants grow
(Growing media, 2016). Adding more potting mediums to the soil can improve the soil structure.
As a result, it improves plant growth and soil productivity, and the soil will be healthier. Sand,
compost, and peatlands are rapidly vanishing worldwide due to their widespread use. However,
some of the resources mentioned, such as peat, might be harmful to the ecosystem if used. Peat
burning, according to studies, dries up the soil, worsens natural conditions, and emits hazardous
carbon emissions (Zylva, 2019). Since the common substrates are costly and said to be dangerous
to the environment, using an alternative growing medium, which is the Rice Husk Ash, can solve
the agricultural waste and create sustainable agriculture. RHA as a growing media can help the
horticulture industry make the soil healthier and make high-quality crops.
The role of Rice husk (RHA) ash is due to its silica content and the ash's dominant divalent
cations. With the right amount of rice husk ash, the plant's growth can be improved and healthier
as it grows. Many potting soils lack one or more essential components to improve soil qualities,
such as peat, vermiculite, perlite, and wood fiber. Incorporating Rice husk ash (RHA) into the soil
will provide a growing media that can create healthier soil by improving drainage channels, soil
2
aeration, loosening up the soil, and acidic imbalances. In addition, when ash is mixed with manure
Making a substrate out of resourceful materials is a great potting medium for a plant that
requires high-quality soil, such as lettuce. Therefore, sufficient amounts of RHA should be present
in the soil to improve its development characteristics and properties. Hence, this study aims to
evaluate the growth of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in response to the application of RHA. The goal
of this study is to create a growing medium for lettuce, in which the researchers will test the
effectiveness of Rice husk ash as a growing medium with different amounts along with soil and
chicken manure.
This study aims to evaluate the growth of Lettuce in response to the application of RHA.
1. Which among the four RHA treatments produces the best results on the growth of Lettuce:
b.) First Treatment: 70% soil + 10% chicken manure + 20% RHA
c.) Second Treatment: 50% soil + 10% chicken manure + 40% RHA
d.) Third Treatment: 30% soil + 10% chicken manure + 60% RHA
e.) Fourth Treatment: 10% soil + 10% chicken manure + 80% RHA
3
2. Is there a significant difference in lettuce growth between RHA treatments in terms of the
following parameters:
The study is significant in determining the effects of Rice husk ash as a growing medium
for lettuce. This study would help people spend less financially trying to find the best growing
medium for lettuce while also protecting the environment. The findings of this study are beneficial
to the environment, the community, farmers, the horticulture industry, and future researchers.
The Environment
Rice husk ash (RHA) is a waste product produced in large quantities in many countries.
Therefore, it may cause pollution in the environment if not utilized properly. So, instead of leaving
all the waste everywhere, this study utilizes Rice husk ash (RHA) as a growing media to avoid
The Community
This study will help the community, especially for the "plantitos and plantitas" who desire
to have a better way of raising lettuce in their own homes. It will help them utilize affordable ways
4
The Farmers
This study will help the farmers figure out a less expensive medium for planting lettuce,
earning more income, and utilizing our natural resources. In addition, the findings of this study
will provide them with an additional choice of substrate that can easily be found around their
vicinity. It will also provide sustainability and decent income since the production is low-cost.
There is a growing demand in horticulture for peat as a growing medium. This study will
help horticulture determine a better method for sowing nutritious plants, particularly when rice
husk ash is used as a substrate. In addition, this study will help them utilize a low-cost, readily
This study will help future researchers study the effects of Rice husk ash as a growing
medium for lettuce. This study will also help other researchers planning to take this topic as their
The study was conducted to determine the effect of rice husk ash as a growing medium for
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in terms of the plant height, the stem length, the area of leaves, and the
number of leaves. The study was conducted at Pilar College of Zamboanga City, Inc. Its primary
purpose is to evaluate the growth of lettuce plants in response to the application of different
percentages of Rice husk ash (RHA) in pots. The lettuce growth will be monitored and documented
5
Chapter 2
REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Related Literature
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is an essential dietary vegetable usually eaten raw in salads. The
availability of vitamin C, phenolic compounds, and fiber levels in Lettuce contribute to its health
According to Tesfa et al. (2018), Lettuce is one of the most popular salad crops, having the
largest production area globally. Due to a lack of new production techniques, however, lettuce
Gonzaga et al. (2018) found that Lettuce requires soil in good condition to produce high-
quality crops. Its constant supply is important due to the increasing demand, contributing to the
Philippine economy. Growing Lettuce faced several problems. Protective structures have been
shown to improve crop growth by protecting crops from adverse environmental conditions. The
addition of organic soil amendments will increase the CEC of the soil and help retain nutrients
Organic materials, such as compost or manure, will improve Lettuce growing conditions
by increasing drainage, providing essential nutrients, and improving growing conditions. Lettuce
grows best in soil high in organic matter, has plenty of compost, and receives a steady supply of
nitrogen. Growing Lettuce in containers necessitates using the proper pot and planting medium
(Gilmour, 2020).
6
Growing Medium
A growing medium is any material used to grow plants other than soil. As a major supplier
to the modern horticultural industry, the peat and growing media sector are essential to its long-
term sustainability. The horticultural industry and consumers utilize growing media to help with
the development of plants. Growing medium provides a range of essential factors to the plant,
including a physical rooting environment, air storage for roots, water absorption and retention, and
Abubakari (2017) stated that manure and loam soil is preferred growing medium substrates
in Sub-Saharan Africa. Their weak physiochemical properties, on the other hand, limit their usage
in growing media.
Peat moss, vermiculite, perlite, bark, and compost are the most common substrate
components. Due to the high cost of transportation, extraction fuel, and processing, this widely
utilized substrate has a high cost (Morgan et al., 2008). According to Bunt (1988), Peat has been
the most common constituent of growing medium. However, Peat as a growing medium has caused
increased environmental and ecological concerns in recent years since its harvest threatens
Growing demand for peat as a growing medium in horticulture has prompted a search for
high-quality, low-cost substrates as an alternative (Restrepo et al., 2013). Therefore, the interest in
finding low-cost, readily available substrates to replace peat moss has become very important
(Altmann, 2008).
7
Rice Husk Ash (RHA)
Rice is one of the most frequently produced food crops in many countries. As a result,
roughly 150 million tons of rice hulls are generated as an unavoidable agricultural waste item
worldwide when rice is removed from paddy. Rice hulls must be used effectively to mitigate the
negative effects of agricultural waste and establish sustainable agriculture (Ano & Ebe, 2020).
RHA is a by-product of the milling process that is the outer part of the rice grain. Rice husk
makes up around 20% of the weight of the rice, and when burned, it leaves 15% of the weight as
According to França et al. (2017), Rice husk ash (RHA) is a waste product produced in
huge quantities in different regions of the world and can be difficult to dispose of.
The National Agricultural Research Center and Japan's Takata Engineering Corp.
collaborated to create a technique for making fertilizer from rice husk ashes that contain highly
soluble silicic acid. Every year, Japan produces about two million tons of rice husks, with a global
production of 100 million tons. These husks are burned as biomass fuel to generate energy, but
there is still the issue of what to do with the ashes, which make up 20% of the whole volume. This
innovative technique aids in the efficient use of these ashes (Japan for Sustainability, 2005).
Organic fertilizer is being used significantly in agriculture. Rice husk is used as an organic
fertilizer to increase productivity and water efficiency (Govindarao1980; Ebaid et al., 2007; Badar
8
Soil fertility refers to the soil's ability to support plant development and maximize crop
yield. Organic and inorganic fertilizers for the soil can help with this (International Atomic Energy
Agency, 2022).
The husk, known as a hull, is burned and combined with other media to create a medium
for growing plants (Eco City Hydroponics, 2010). RHA can be an alternative for Peat, the most
A by-product of the rice industry, rice hulls are a natural growing medium comparable to
peat moss and coco coir. Rice hulls are lightweight, good for a year before they break down, and
good for improving drainage and aeration. Selecting the right growing medium for a garden will
help it thrive by delivering the proper moisture, air, and nutrients to every plant (Coir, 2020).
According to Bill Hageman (2022), Rice hulls are an environmentally friendly soil
amendment for improving drainage, water retention, and aeration. Unlike perlite and other rock
products, it does not necessitate mining, nor does it necessitate land disturbance to produce, unlike
peat moss.
Rice hulls are a popular gardening substrate because they absorb liquid and provide an
environmentally friendly drainage solution. They are among the most sustainable soil supplements
for greenhouse growers because they aid in drainage, water retention, and aeration (Granite Seed
Company, 2022).
When carbonized, rice husk has a high drainage capacity, is easy to handle, is light in
weight, has a slightly alkaline pH, is flocculated, and is pathogen and worm free. It has appropriate
K and Ca, two necessary macronutrients for plant development. Since it allows penetration and air
9
exchange at the root base, carbonized rice husk can be utilized as a component in substrates (Salé
et al., 2021).
Rice husk waste is cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose-rich fibrous material. It produces a
large amount of ash and silica (87-97%) and contains 1% nitrogen and 2% potassium. Potassium
in ash husk helps to strengthen the plant, manage the respiratory system, support enzyme work
According to Yin et al. (2022), RHA is high in chemical components such as K, P, Ca,
Magnesium (Mg), and Silicon (Si), as well as being moderately alkaline and having significant
neutralizing power, making it an effective fertilizer. RHA's application as a growth medium has
gotten significantly less attention than its role as a soil amendment. RHA is a viable substitute for
peat in growing media because of its chemical and physical properties, comparable to those of
Rice husk ash (RHA), a rice industry waste product, is high in silica. Rice husk ash, mostly
silica, is produced when the rice husk is burned (Bakar et al., 2016).
Among all plant residues, RHA possesses the largest concentration of silica (Siddique,
2008; Xu, Lo, & Memon, 2012; Yalçin & Sevinç, 2001). Therefore, it can be used as a fertilizer
to produce healthy plants because it can provide many benefits, although silica is unnecessary for
10
Silica in Rice Husk Ash (RHA)
According to numerous studies, Rice husk consists mainly of silica, which has many
applications. Silica is extremely beneficial to plants, in addition to its many industrial applications.
Several researchers have reported on the benefits of silica in rice husks, resulting in healthy plant
growth. The negative effect of silica in rice husks on rice taste was examined by Sekifuji and
Tateda (2017). However, no such effect was found when silica was utilized as a fertilizer. This
was done to confirm that rice husk silica has no negative effects on plants, promoting silica
applications, including rice husk silica recycling. Rice husks might also be seen as a resource rather
Increased food production is required, and so is the use of less suitable soils, such as those
with excessive salinity, low nutrient availability, inadequate water holding capacity, and slightly
polluted locations. Plants are affected by poor soil quality, resulting in lower food output. In order
to improve this situation, the use of silicon (Si) has received much attention in recent years because
Si makes plants more resistant to salt, reduces the uptake of some dangerous elements, and boosts
According to Hepperly (2015), the beneficial role of rice husk ash is due to silica and the
dominant divalent cations in the ash. When ash is added to manure or compost, it increases the
manure's stability and, as a result, the soil's stability when manure is applied to the soil.
Rice husk ash can be used as a substitute for inorganic fertilizers or, combined with them,
as an acidic soil amendment, as a carrier for biofertilizers, and so on (Gonçalves & Bergmann,
2007).
11
In theory, the threshold dose is determined by RHA's impact on soil properties. It can raise
pH and nutrient availability and impact hydro-physical properties (Silva et al., 2008; Pinto et al.,
Rice straw and husks have increased crop yields by lowering soil bulk density, elevating
pH, providing organic carbon, increasing accessible nutrients, and eliminating heavy metals from
In general, potting soils should contain an organic substance such as peat moss, pulverized
bark, compacted sawdust, compacted leaf mold, or any other organic matter allowed to degrade.
This should make up 30 to 90% of the overall weight of the mixture. A material that manages
moisture, promotes aeration and prevents compaction should also be used. In the past, other
materials such as vermiculite and perlite were employed to achieve this. Perlite and vermiculite
can both be replaced with husk ash. According to a study conducted by Durham (1989), Rice husk
ash must be present in sufficient quantities to achieve better growth characteristics and properties
of soils. Compaction avoidance, drainage channels or porosity, aeration pockets, acidic imbalance
correction, and trace elements required for plant growth are all properties that many potting soils
lack. A beneficial outcome is obtained when rice husk ash in an essentially amorphous condition
with a porous skeletal structure is mixed with soil in an amount effective to provide a growing
media that avoids compaction, provides drainage channels, and aera-tion pockets, and corrects
acidity imbalances. As a result, rice husk ash might be an excellent peat substitute. Furthermore,
disposing of rice hulls has been an ongoing concern for the rice industry. The rice industry burns
12
Conceptual Framework
Figure 1.0 shows the relationship of the variables. The independent variable is the Rice
husk ash (RHA) in this study. As an independent variable, it can be manipulated or changed
according to different proportions to bring about a possible effect on the dependent variables
showing the effects on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) growth. In this study, the dependent variables are
plant height, stem length, area of leaves, and the number of leaves due to the interaction between
the independent and the dependent variables indicated above. The extraneous variables in this
study are the type of water used and the weather, which are the variables that we are not including
Research Hypothesis
13
Definition of Terms and Variables
Growing Medium - is a material in which plants grow their roots, either at ground level or
inside a container. It controls plant watering, aeration, and nutrient intake. It is specifically
designed to promote plant growth and can take the form of a solid or liquid. Growing media
Growth - increases in cell size and number during an organism's life history. It is the
continuous growth of an organism's size over time. It can also be defined as one of the
Rice husk ash (RHA) - is a readily available and renewable agricultural by-product of rice
majority of lettuce varieties are consumed fresh and are frequently served as green salads.
It is a good source of vitamins K and A, though the nutritional quality varies by variety.
Soil - is the loose surface material that covers most of the land. It is made up of both
inorganic and organic particles. Soil provides structural support to agricultural plants and
Chicken Manure - is chicken feces used as an organic fertilizer, particularly for nitrogen-
deficient soil. It contains the highest nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium levels of any
animal manure.
14
Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
The researchers used the Experimental design. This study will have variables being
measured, such as the plant's height, the length of the stem, the area of leaves, and the number of
leaves. This study also establishes a cause and effect, the Rice husk ash, as the cause and its effect
on the growth of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa). A completely randomized design was utilized with five
Rice husk ash treatments, rates at (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%), six replications, and a total of
The Instrument
The researchers used observation forms as an instrument for collecting research data.
Zamboanga City, Inc. to conduct the study at Pilar College of Zamboanga City, Inc. The
researchers asked permission to construct the lettuces’ mini greenhouse and gather data every
After being given permission, the researchers constructed the mini greenhouse and planted
the lettuce seedlings observed for two weeks. Then, the researchers collected the data through
15
Plan for Data Analysis
For the researchers to obtain the objectives of this study, they must determine the effect of
RHA application as a growing medium on lettuce growth and conclude which RHA treatments
produce the best results for lettuce growth. Therefore, the researchers will first make sure that the
lettuce plants are placed in a warm place. Second, treatments should be watered twice a week.
Third, they will maintain the plants, observing and measuring their height (cm), stem length (cm),
area of leaves (cm), and the number of leaves every week, ensuring excellent and concise results.
Lastly, when it is time to gather the result after two weeks, the researchers will determine the
significant difference among the treatments through average. They will measure the average height
of the plant, the stem length, the area of the leaves, and the number of leaves on every treatment
to determine which of the treatments produce the best growth of lettuce plants.
16
Chapter 4
This chapter presents the data gathered by the researchers regarding the effects of RHA
application on the Growth of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa). After two weeks of data gathering, we
discovered that the height of lettuce, the stem length, the area, and the number of lettuce leaves in
each treatment differed. The researchers determined the significant difference among the
treatments through average. The following are the data and results obtained to answer the research
questions.
Which among the RHA treatments produces the best results on the growth of Lettuce:
b.) First Treatment: 70% soil + 10% chicken manure + 20% RHA
c.) Second Treatment: 50% soil + 10% chicken manure + 40% RHA
d.) Third Treatment: 30% soil + 10% chicken manure + 60% RHA
e.) Fourth Treatment: 10% soil + 10% chicken manure + 80% RHA
17
Figure 1.1. Control Treatment Results
The bar graph above shows the results of the Control treatment. The Control treatment
consists of 90% soil, 10% chicken manure, and 0% RHA. Figure 1.1. shows that It has an average
of 5.20 cm for the plant height, 2.90 cm for the stem length, 1.55 cm for the leaves area, and 4.15
18
Figure 1.2. First Treatment Results
The bar graph above shows the results of the First treatment. The First treatment consists
of 70% soil, 10% chicken manure, and 20% RHA. Figure 1.2. shows that the average plant height
of the First treatment is 6.49 cm, the average stem length is 3.54 cm, the average area of leaves is
1.80 cm, and the average number of leaves is 4.90. Based on the previous graph, the average results
of all the variables in the First treatment are higher than the Control treatment.
19
Figure 1.3. Second Treatment Results
The bar graph above shows the results of the Second treatment. The Second treatment
consists of 50% soil, 10% chicken manure, and 40% RHA. It has an average of 5.34 cm for the
plant height, 3.11 cm for the stem length, 1.51 cm for the leaves area, and 4.50 for the number of
leaves. The Second treatment surpasses the Control group regarding plant height, stem length, and
the number of leaves, except for the leaves area. However, the outcome of the Second treatment
is not as great as the First treatment because the First treatment's results show that it exceeds both
20
Figure 1.4. Third Treatment Results
The bar graph above shows the results of the Third treatment. The Third treatment consists
of 30% soil, 10% chicken manure, and 60% RHA. It has an average of 5.70 cm for the plant height,
3.10 cm for the stem length, 1.54 cm for the leaves area, and 4.43 for the number of leaves. The
results of the Third treatment in terms of the area of leaves are lower than the Control treatment.
Overall, this graph shows that the Third treatment gives better results than the Control and Second
treatment, but not as best as the First treatment in terms of all variables.
21
Figure 1.5. Fourth Treatment Results
The bar graph above shows the results of the Fourth treatment. The Fourth treatment
consists of 10% soil, 10% chicken manure, and 80% RHA. It has an average of 5.25 cm for the
plant height, 3.35 cm for the stem length, 1.46 cm for the leaves area, and 4.28 for the number of
leaves. The results of the Fourth treatment in terms of the area of leaves are lower than all of the
other treatments, but it has a higher average than the Control treatment in plant height, stem length,
and the number of leaves. In terms of the stem length, it surpasses the Control, Second, and Third
treatments except for the First treatment. However, it had a lower average than the First, Second,
and Third treatments in terms of plant height, area of the leaves, and the number of leaves.
22
Summary of Findings
Based on the data, the control treatment has an average mean of 5.20 cm for the plant
height, 2.90 cm for the stem length, 1.55 cm for the leaves area, and 4.15 for the number of leaves.
The First treatment has an average mean of 6.49 cm, the average stem length is 3.54 cm, the
average area of leaves is 1.80 cm, and the average number of leaves is 4.90. The Second treatment
has an average mean of 5.34 cm for the plant height, 3.11 cm for the stem length, 1.51 cm for the
leaves area, and 4.50 for the number of leaves. The Third treatment has an average of 5.70 cm for
the plant height, 3.10 cm for the stem length, 1.54 cm for the leaves area, and 4.43 for the number
of leaves. The Fourth treatment has an average of 5.25 cm for the plant height, 3.35 cm for the
stem length, 1.46 cm for the leaves area, and 4.28 for the number of leaves.
a.) The Control treatment with 0% RHA produces better results than the Second, Third, and
Fourth treatments in the leaf's area, but it remains the lowest in terms of the plant height, the stem
b.) The First treatment with 20% RHA surpasses all treatments, producing the best results in
terms of plant height, stem length, leaf area, and leaf number.
c.) The Second treatment with 40% RHA produces better results than the Fourth and Control
treatments regarding the plant height. In terms of stem length, it surpasses the Third and Control
treatments. It also surpasses the fourth treatment regarding the leaf's area and the Third, Fourth,
23
d.) The Third treatment with 60% RHA produces better results than the Second, Fourth, and
Control treatments regarding plant height. It only surpasses the Control treatment in terms of stem
length. However, it surpasses the Second and Fourth treatments regarding the leaf's area. In terms
e.) Only in terms of plant height and the number of leaves does the Fourth treatment with 80%
RHA produce better results than the Control treatment. It surpasses the Second, Third, and Control
treatments in stem length. However, it was the lowest in the area of leaves.
Is there a significant difference in lettuce growth between RHA treatments in terms of the
following parameters:
24
Figure 1.6. Average Plant Height
The bar graph above shows the significant difference in lettuce growth between RHA
treatments in terms of the plant height. The First treatment has the highest average of 6.49 cm. The
Third treatment with an average of 5.70 cm is the second-highest, followed by the Second
treatment with an average of 5.34 cm and the Fourth treatment with an average of 5.25 cm. The
Control treatment with an average of 5.20 cm has the lowest average for the plant height.
25
Figure 1.7. Average Stem Length
The bar graph above shows the significant difference in lettuce growth between RHA
treatments in terms of the stem length. The First treatment has the highest average of 3.54 cm. The
Fourth treatment with an average of 3.35 cm is the second-highest, followed by the Second
treatment with an average of 3.11 cm and the Third treatment with an average of 3.10 cm. The
Control treatment with an average of 2.90 cm has the lowest average for the stem length.
26
Figure 1.8. Average Area of the Leaves
The bar graph above shows the significant difference in lettuce growth between RHA
treatments in terms of the area of the leaves. The average area of the leaves in the Control group
is 1.55 cm, the First treatment has 1.80 cm, the Second treatment has 1.51 cm, the Third treatment
has 1.54 cm, and the Fourth treatment has 1.46 cm. As we can see, the First treatment has the
highest average in the area of the leaves, followed by the Control treatment, Third Treatment, and
Second treatment. The Fourth treatment has the lowest area of the leaves.
27
Figure 1.9. Average Number of Leaves
The bar graph above shows the significant difference in lettuce growth between RHA
treatments regarding the number of leaves. The First treatment has the highest average, which is
4.90. The second highest is the Second treatment with an average of 4.50, followed by the Third
treatment with 4.43, and the Fourth treatment with 4.28. The Control treatment has a considerably
28
Summary of Findings
Based on the data, in terms of the plant height, the Control treatment had an average of
5.20 cm, the First treatment had 6.49 cm, the Second treatment had 5.34 cm, the Third treatment
had 5.70 cm, and the Fourth Treatment had 5.25 cm. In terms of the Stem length, the Control
treatment has an average of 2.90 cm, the First treatment has 3.54 cm, the Second treatment has
3.11 cm, the Third treatment has 3.10 cm, and the Fourth treatment has 3.35 cm. In terms of the
leaves area, the Control treatment has an average of 1.55cm, the First treatment has 1.80 cm, the
Second treatment has 1.51 cm, the Third treatment has 1.54 cm, and the Fourth treatment has 1.46
cm. In terms of the number of leaves, the Control treatment has an average of 4.15, the First
treatment has 4.90, the Second treatment has 4.50, the Third treatment has 4.43, and the Fourth
a.) In terms of the Plant height, the First treatment has the highest average mean, followed by
the Third treatment, the Second Treatment, and the Fourth treatment. The First, Second, Third,
and Fourth treatments have a considerable difference in the average mean. The Control treatment
has the lowest average mean, but the Fourth and Control treatments showed minor differences.
b.) In terms of the Stem length, the First treatment achieved significant results, followed by
the Fourth Treatment. The Second and Third treatments showed minimal differences in the average
mean. On the other hand, the Control treatment had the lowest average mean in stem length.
c.) In terms of the area of the leaves, the First Treatment has the highest average mean,
followed by the Control, Second, and Third treatments, which showed minor differences in the
average mean. On the other hand, the Fourth treatment has the lowest average mean in the leaves
area.
29
d.) In terms of the number of leaves, the First treatment has the highest average mean, followed
by the Second, Third, and Fourth treatments. The Control treatment has the lowest average mean
DISCUSSION
The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of rice husk ash as a growing medium
for Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in terms of the plant height, the stem length, the area of the leaves,
and the number of leaves. The study was conducted at Pilar College of Zamboanga City, Inc. Its
primary purpose is to evaluate the growth of lettuce plants in response to the application of
different percentages of rice husk ash (RHA) in pots. The growth of Lettuce was monitored and
documented for two weeks. After the data gathered were analyzed, the researchers found out that
the First treatment produces the best results on the growth of Lettuce and that there is a significant
difference in lettuce growth in terms of plant height, stem length, area of the leaves, and the number
of leaves based on the average mean of RHA treatments. The First treatment has 20% RHA, the
Second treatment has 40% RHA, the Third treatment has 60% RHA, the Fourth treatment has 80%
RHA, and the Control treatment has 0% RHA. In accordance with the Statistics, the First treatment
has the highest average mean in terms of plant height, stem length, area of the leaves, and the
number of leaves, which means that the First treatment with 20% RHA is the most effective on the
growth of Lettuce, while the Control treatment with 0% RHA, has the lowest. The Second, Third,
and Fourth treatments' results also surpass the Control treatment results, which means that all
treatments containing Rice husk ash (RHA) are effective in the growth of Lettuce but can be more
effective and improves the growth of lettuce plants with the right amount of RHA. The study
revealed that the application of Rice husk ash (RHA) as a growing medium for Lettuce increases
30
the Lettuce's height, stem length, area of the leaves, and the number of leaves compared to without
RHA.
Re-Conceptualized Framework
Figure 2.0 shows the relationship of the variables. The independent variable is the Rice
husk ash (RHA) in this study. This study focuses on the growth of lettuce plants using RHA as a
growing medium to see which of the different percentages of RHA gives the best results on the
plant's growth. There are five treatments with different percentages of RHA. The different
percentages of RHA are 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%. In this study, the dependent variables are
plant height, stem length, area of the leaves, and the number of leaves, and the extraneous variable
is the weather. After the data gathered were analyzed, the researchers found out that the findings
of the study did not differ from the expected outcome. The RHA affected the growth of lettuce in
terms of all variables indicated above. Out of all the treatments that have been done, tested, and
31
observed, the First treatment with 20% RHA holds the best results on the growth of lettuce. The
Control treatment without RHA gave the least favorable outcomes. In addition, the extraneous
variable in this study, a variable that we are not including but might affect the dependent variable
somehow, which is the weather, affected the growth of lettuce during the experimentation.
32
Chapter 5
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclusions
Lettuce is a popular salad crop with the largest production area globally, but lettuce
production may be limited due to a lack of new manufacturing techniques. To produce high-quality
crops and maintain a healthy lettuce plant, lettuce requires suitable soil. With this, making the best
growing medium can improve the growth of the lettuce. Peat has been the most common
constituent of growing medium, however, Peat as a growing medium has caused increased
environmental and ecological concerns in recent years. Growing demand for peat as a growing
alternative. Rice husk ash (RHA) is the outer part of the rice grain that is a by-product of the
milling process. Roughly 150 million tons of rice hulls are generated as an unavoidable agricultural
waste item worldwide when rice is separated from paddy. It can pollute the environment if not
adequately utilized. That is why the Grade 12 Researchers of Pilar College of Zamboanga City,
Inc. have conducted a study to evaluate the growth of lettuce in terms of the plant height, stem
length, area of the leaves, and the number of leaves in response to the application of RHA as a
Consequently, the data and results imply that the Rice husk ash (RHA) effectively
improves plant growth, specifically the lettuce plant. Based on the data analysis, the RHA
treatments have a significant difference in terms of the plant height, stem length, area of the leaves,
and the number of leaves. Overall, the First treatment with 20% RHA produces the best results.
The Second treatment with 40% RHA, Third treatment with 60% RHA, and Fourth treatment with
80% RHA gave better results than the Control treatment with 0% RHA. Therefore, incorporating
33
the right amount of rice husk ash into the soil will provide a growing medium that can create
healthier soil, improving its height, stem length, area of the leaves, and the number of leaves. The
study concluded that all treatments containing different percentages of RHA rates at (20%, 40%,
60%, and 80%) have the potential to improve lettuce plant growth due to its silica contents,
resulting in healthy plant growth. In addition, when RHA is added to manure or compost, it
increases the manure's stability and, as a result, the soil's stability when manure is applied to the
soil. Therefore, Rice husk ash (RHA) as a growing medium can solve agricultural waste and create
sustainable agriculture since the common substrates are costly and said to be dangerous to the
environment. In addition, it can help the horticulture industry make the soil healthier and make
high-quality crops.
Recommendations
After thoroughly collecting the necessary data, the researchers humbly recommend the
following:
1. The researchers recommend Rice husk ash (RHA) as a growing medium for the community
to have a better way of raising lettuce in their own homes. It will help them utilize
2. For the farmers, RHA is a less expensive medium for planting lettuce, earning more
income, and utilizing our natural resources. RHA is beneficial and can considerably assist
farmers in improving lettuce plant growth. The researchers recommend applying RHA as
a growing medium to grow plants to help them grow healthy crops. This can benefit both
34
3. The researchers recommend the first treatment for the horticulture industry, consisting of
20% RHA, 10% chicken manure, and 70% soil as a growing medium for sowing nutritious
plants. It can benefit the horticulture sector because it gives the best outcomes among all
the treatments done so far. In addition, it will help them utilize a low-cost, readily available
4. The researchers recommend experimenting using a different growing medium to test the
plant's growth for future researchers. Although RHA is said to be effective in the growth
of lettuce plants, other growing mediums can aid and promote plant growth, which can be
beneficial. We also recommend experimenting with RHA as a growing medium for other
plants.
5. The researchers recommend that Rice husk ash (RHA) be appropriately utilized as a
Since it produces outstanding results as a growing medium for lettuce, it can help reduce
environmental waste, causing damage to the land and the surrounding area in which it is
dumped.
35
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40
APPENDICES
A. Budget
41
B. Timeframe
42
C. Documentations
43
Mixing of Soil, Chicken Manure, and Rice husk ash (RHA)
44
SECOND WEEK OF MARCH
Seed Germination
Labeling of Pots
45
THIRD WEEK OF MARCH
46
MARCH 18, 2022
47
MARCH 25, 2022
48
APRIL 1, 2022
APRIL 5, 2022
49
FINAL PRODUCT
50
D. Curriculum Vitae
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile # +639661757463
aubreycampos25@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Education is our passport for our future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it
today. We should open ourselves to the impossible and embrace a psychology of possibility.
Date of Birth: February 22, 2004 2009 - 2010: Sta. Catalina School
Place of Birth: Zamboanga City Medical 2010 - 2016: Zamboanga East Central
Center School
Citizenship: Filipino
51
JESSA ROSELLE D. CHAN
Philippines, 7000
Mobile # +639261016021
roselle.chan22@gmail.com
MOTTO:
The world is not in your maps and books. It's out there.
Date of Birth: August 22, 2003 2008 - 2016: Mercedes Central School
52
NURILYN A. DAMIH
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile # +639976974780
nurilyndamih6@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Place of Birth: Tagum, Davao City 2009 - 2012: Baliwasan Central School
City, Inc.
53
REISHA KATE B. DESTACAMENTO
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile: 09668152141
Katedestacamento26@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Date of Birth: March 12, 2004 2009 - 2016: Canelar Elementary School
Place of Birth: Zamboanga City Medical 2016 - 2022: Pilar College of Zamboanga
Sex: Female
Citizenship: Filipino
54
ADREANNA JADE A. ESTEBAN
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile# +639754025210
adreannaesteban@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Date of Birth: November 01, 2003 2008 - 2009: Lunzuran Resettlement Day
55
NHOURCZA S. JALALUN
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile # +639173930705
nhourczajalalun02@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Life is short so live your life to the fullest. Don’t waste your time on people who are toxic and
irrelevant. You are the main character of your life, you control and you decide on your own so
Date of Birth: October 04, 2003 2008 - 2012: Sunnyvale Learning Center
Place of Birth: Zamboanga City Doctors 2012 - 2016: Sta. Barbara Central School
Religion: Islam
56
JOHN EMMAN L. JUAQUERA
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile# +639158500364
jjohnemman@gmail.com
MOTTO:
You don’t get what you wish for. You get what you work for.
Date of Birth: January 03, 2004 2009 - 2010: CLDC Learning School
57
SHAIRA D. KADIL
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile # +63678104994
shaikadil2503@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Date of Birth: January 25, 2003 2009 - 2016: Baliwasan Central School
Place of Birth: Zamboanga City Medical 2016 - 2020: Zamboanga National High
Citizenship: Filipino
Religion: Islam
58
EMALYN B. MAGALLON
Zamboanga City,
Philippine, 7000
Ememmagallon06@email.com
MOTTO:
Turn your fear into excitement. Your anxieties into enthusiasm. Your passion into energy.
Date of Birth: October 04, 2003 2009 - 2016: Sta. Maria Central School
59
AHMEED B. MOHAMMAD
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile# +639958726550
mohammadahmeed69@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Religion: Islam
60
AHMAD FAIZAM S. SANGKULA
Zamboanga City,
Philippines, 7000
Mobile# +639266303500
sangkulaahmadfaizam@gmail.com
MOTTO:
Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.
Sex: Male
Citizenship: Filipino
Religion: Islam
61