2ND QUARTER REVIEWER IN EPP 6

LESSON 1 Tools and equipment in plant propagation

Caring for fruit trees is the same as caring for other trees. Orchard tools and
equipment play a very
important role in systematic process of plant preparation. Their availability
makes the work easier and
helps in the proper execution of the different procedures.
1.Hoe – a tool used in digging and loosening hard, dry soil. It has a thin blade
across the end of a long
handle.

2.Rake – a long handled tool having a bar at one end with teeth in. It is used for
smoothening the soil
and gathering loose leaves, hay, or straw.

3.Trowel – a tool with a curved blade used for loosening the ground and taking
up small plants.

4.Axe – a tool with a flat, sharp blade fastened to a handle used for cutting
trunk of trees and their
branches.

4. Crowbar – a straight, heavy iron bar pointed at one end, about 4 feet in
length, used for digging
holes and for planting seeds.

5. Bolo – a tool with a wooden or metal handle in which a long blade is

attached. It is used for
cutting tall grasses and branches of trees.

6. Shovel – a broad scoop attached to a handle. It is used to dig, lift, and throw
loose matter.

7. Fork – a tool resembling a table fork but much bigger in size. It is used in
digging and preparing
the soil for the plants.

8. Water Sprinkler – a can with a spout to sprinkle water on the plants. Plants
should be watered
everyday to make them grow healthier.
9. Wheelbarrow – used to transfer soil plants and other materials from one place
to another.

10. Hose – used for watering seedlings arranged in mass.

11. Sprayer – used for spraying chemicals to eliminate plant seeds.

12. Weighing Scale- for weighing plants, seeds, and fertilizers.

14. Pieces of wood or bamboo – used as fences of seed boxes and plots to
protect plants from being destroyed by animals.

16. Pruning Shears – used for cutting small branches including the unnecessary
branches.

17. Garden gloves – used while working in the garden, made of strong rubber to
protect from thorns
and withstand punctures.

Tips in performing scientific way of propagating fruit-bearing trees

1.Select a stem which is not too young or too old.

2. Be sure the propagating materials are of the same specie.
3. See to it that the stock and the scion are fitted with each other.
4. Do the propagation at the right time.

Healthy and Safety Measures in Propagating Fruit-Bearing Trees

1.Before working make sure you have refresh yourself (like taking a bath) in order
to work well.
2.Always wear complete personal protective protective equipment which
includes hairnet, hand gloves,
apron, boots if needed, protective eyeglass, and face mask.
3. Make sure tools and equipment are working properly before using them.
4. Always follow instructions for use of equipment.
5. Focus on the work at hand. Do not allow yourself to get distracted.
6. Know your limits in working, seek help whenever necessary.
7. Work in proper position. Make sure you do not strain your back while working.
Planting and propagating trees and fruit –bearing trees is a source of livelihood
for many Filipino
families. Nowadays, many people engage in this as a source of additional
income for their daily needs.
LESSON 2 Importance of Planting and Propagating Trees
Fruit –bearing trees can be planted in your backyard depend on several factors:
the space in your backyard , the kind of soil, and, and the type of climate in
your own community. The pupils should be able to demonstrate understanding
of scientific practices in planting and propagating trees and fruit bearing trees.

It is important, however, to first learn the benefits derived from planting and
propagating trees and fruit-bearing trees to families and communities. This lesson
will discuss these benefits. It will also identify successful orchard growers in the
country. At the same time, the lesson will present sources of fruit-bearing
seedlings for sale. In addition, this lesson will also present the latest data on the
volume of production of the most in demand fruit crops in the country.

Why is there a need for plant propagation?

Plant propagation is the process of reproducing or creating a new plant or
seedling. It is an important part of gardening, whether outdoors or indoors. Plants
are living things that grow either through their roots, stems and leaves of their
flowers, fruits, and seeds. It is a method of growing new plants from seed or from
parts of existing plants.

Benefits derived from planting trees and fruit-bearing trees to families and
communities. Trees are valuable to the family and the community for the
products and amenities they give
such as:
1. food like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and sugar
2. wood used as fuel for cooking and heating
3. construction materials which include lumber, plywood, and board
4. fiber for the production of pulp and paper; and
5. chemical products such as resin, rubber, and turpentine.

Other Benefits Derived from Trees

There are benefits derived from trees to maintain a healthy environment. Some
of these benefits include:
1. They provide shade and fresh air around the house and, along the streets and
surroundings.

Trees are very much needed by people in these times of climate change when
the temperature is high and the heat of the sun becomes intense. Without trees,
there are no shades to keep us cool.
2. They protect the soil from erosion. Have you seen big roots that extend several
meters from the trunk or go deeper into the soil? These roots hold the soil,
preventing it from eroding when rain or floods come.

3. They help maintain high quality water supply. The roots of plants and trees
help strain the dirt and cleanse the water as it passes through the roots.

4. The root system promotes soil stability. This means that the soil held by the roots
remain there and does not erode.

5. They serve as valuable wildlife habitats. Wild animals live in places with many
trees like that of a forest.

6. They serve as wind-breakers during typhoons and storms, thus, reducing the
destruction of home and agricultural crops. A typhoon that is strong usually
moves at a very fast speed. It continues to be that strong if there are no barriers
on the path where it moves. But when it passes barriers like mountains and trees,
it slows down and its speed is reduced. Small crops and plants as well as houses
are safe when typhoon is weak.

7. They help reduce pollutions in congested urban areas. Remember that trees
take in carbon dioxide emitted from vehicles that belches smoke. The more
trees present, the less amount of carbon dioxide is in the air.

8. They contribute to the beautiful landscapes in the city and the countryside.
Imagine a land with plenty of trees and grass and a scattering of flowers of
beautiful colors, sizes, and shapes.

9. They improve the atmosphere of a place by giving a feeling of freshness and

coolness as they reduce temperature.

10. They prevent river and lake sedimentation. Have you observed a river bank
that is lined endlessly with full-grown trees? These trees help hold the water in the
lake and river and keep it there. This prevents the lake and river from drying up.

11. They prevent floods. Floods occur when water from rain rushes in causing soil
erosion. However, if there are trees to serve as barriers and the roots to hold the
water, flood will not occur.

Trees and Fruit-bearing trees that one can plant

Some of the common trees planted in both rural and urban areas are the
following:
1. Narra 9. Alibangbang
2. Yakal 10. Banaba
3. Apitong 11. Pine Tree
4. Acacia 12. Indian Tree
5. Ipil-Ipil 13. Fire Tree
6. Palm Tree 14. Molave
7. Rubber Tree 15. Mahogany
8. Bamboo Tree

Some of the common fruit-bearing trees are the following:

1. Duhat 14. Rambutan
2. Mango 15. Lychee
3. Santol 16. Guava
4. Coconut 17. Aratiles
5. Orange/Dalandan 18. Camachile
6. Pomelo 19. Mangosteen
7. Atis 20. Durian
8. Langka 21. Pili
9. Chico 22. Cashew
10. Banana 23. Star Apple
11. Avocado 24. Guyabano
12. Longan 25. Balimbing
13. Cacao

Successful orchard growers in the Philippines

If you get to know the success stories of our country’s top orchard growers, you
would never imagine how they got to where they are now. Their hard work,
determination, and will to succeed is truly worth emulating. Below are three of
our successful orchard growers:

Editha Aguinaldo Dacuycuy- Manang

Editha ventured into the dragon fruit business when she was told how the fruit
can help relieve constipation problems – a condition common to cerebral palsy
patients. Her daughter, Kate, was suffering from this ailment. Selling at Php
450.00 per kilo, dragon fruit was too expensive for Editha, so she decided to raise
her own fruits in their backyard. From a small plot, they now own a 10-hectare
property. Dubbed as “Dragon Lady”, Manang Editha, together with her
husband and daughter, Mimie Mildred), also expanded their business into
dragon fruit ice cream, vegan dragon fruit lumpia, wine, vinegar, and even
empanadita, dumplings, and burger patties. Located in Barangay Paayas,
Burgos, Ilocos Norte, REFMAD Farms ( Rare Eagle Forest Marine and agricultural
Development) isnow an agritourism showcase offering research and livelihood
training to fellow Ilocanos and interested farmers. No less than President
NOYNOY Aquino awarded Manag Editha for her hardwork, as well as
other well- known awarding bodies. Her farm has a steady market in
neighboring provinces in Ilocos Norte and Metro Manila. Dole Philippines orders
in bulk, while hotels in Ilocos Norte are their regular clients.

Alfredo M. Yao – The “Juice King of the Philippines, also owns a farm in Negros
Occidental aside from Zest – O Corporation. At 12 years old, he lost his father
and grew up doing odd jobs to help his mother feed her family of six children.
One of his jobs was working in a warehouse of a packaging company.
Encouraged by the promising profitability of a packaging format in Europe
(Doypack), he bought one and tried to market the machine to local juice
manufacturers. When no factory took notice, he made his own fruit juice and
launched what was to become one of the biggest local juice brands.

Patricio Base – With his 3-hectare plantation of watermelons, honeydew melons,

and papaya, he produces crops year-round in Alicia, Isabela. He was able to
send his four children to college with his earnings. He used to grow rice before
venturing into watermelons. He said there was no money in planting rice, but
now with melons, one can even hit the jackpot. In July 2013, he planted Diana
watermelons in 3,500 square meters and got 12 tons worth Php 480.00.

Successful orchard growers in the community or adjacent communities:

1. Sinura Pampanga Farm (San Fernando, Pampanga)
It has 1000 guapple trees, few mango trees and calamansi.

2. Anon, Florida Blanca Farm

Has fruit bearing trees, 600 calamansi, 35 mango and other assorted fruits.

3. Sta. Ana Mango Farm

Has 50 income generating mango trees and fish pond.

4. Mango Farm, Magalang ,Pampanga

Has mango and other fruit bearing trees.

5. Fruit Farm – Mitula Homes, San Fernando, Pampanga

This is a dragon fruit farm.
LET’S REMEMBER
1. Trees are important to the family and community as they are sources of food,
lumber for construction of houses, fiber for paper, fuel for cooking, and
chemicals like resin and turpentine.

2. Trees provide benefits to the environment. Some of these are: 1) they protect
the soil from erosion; 2) they help maintain high quality water supplies; 3) their
root system promotes soil stability; 4) they serve as valuable wildlife habitat; 5)
they are attractive and effective windbreakers: 6) they prevent floods; and 7)
they prevent lake and river sedimentation, etc.

LESSON 3 ELEMENTS TO BE OBSERVED IN PLANTING

TREES AND FRUIT-BEARING TREES
Planting, just like cooking, requires systematic way of doing things. It requires a
step-by-step procedure on how to select and prepare the soil, the seedlings, the
tools, and the location for planting.With these requirements, all that is needed is
a thorough knowledge and skill on how to do the planting process and the
manner on how plants are to be taken care of.

Elements to be observed in planting trees and fruit bearing trees

A. Proper Care of Plants and Soil

Proper care of plants and soil is necessary for a healthy and bountiful harvest.
Do the following:

1. Choose the best place for planting.

Trees and fruit trees require more space for growth than ornamental plants or
crops. This is because trees and fruit trees grow tall and wide . There are trees
that roots that expand sideward and those that move downward. Choose a
place where trees will grow freely without obstruction like street fences or
walls. Have enough space allowance between trees, or between the streets,
fences, or walls. Consider the type of soil and the amount of sunlight.

2. Choose the seeds that best suit the season and the soil.
This means that the seeds come from a good quality mother and the seeds are
healthy, mature, withno blemishes or cuts, and of the right size and form. Seeds
must be prepared before planting. Planting should be done preferably during
the rainy season. The soil must be suited to the type of seeds to be planted.
Consult an expert on what type of soil, or where do trees like acacia, narra,
mango, rambutan, or coconut grow best.

3. Put sufficient fertilizers in the soil.

It is advisable to prepare the soil before planting. This means cleaning the soil
and its surrounding area and mixing the soil with organic fertilizers. Organic
fertilizers are safe and economical to use, while inorganic or commercial
fertilizers have to be regulated because overuse can poison the soil. A rich soil is
40 percent clay loam, 30 percent compost, 20 percent dried carabao manure
or chicken dung, and 10 percent sand. Remember, plants need nitrogen,
phosphorus, and potassium to grow and to make them resistant to pests and
diseases.

4. Take care of the soil and the plants regularly.

Caring for the young trees means removing the grass and weeds around them
so they do not compete in getting the nutrients from the soil. Keep the soil
always moist and this is no problem during the rainy season. However, during the
dry months, there is a need to water them regularly. Watering is done during
sunrise or after sunset to keep the evaporation of water from the soil slow. Make
a ring of cultivation around the young tree with the size matching the
circumference of the crown of the tree. The soil in this ring is loose and slightly
hilling up. In case of pests or insects infestation, do this by building a fire and
allowing the smoke to penetrate the foliage. Use the appropriate pesticide or
fungicide to control plant disease. Consult an expert on this. Likewise, prune the
young tree by cutting off infected or unproductive branches. Do not leave
excess branches on the trunk to avoid infection
which occurs when the cut has not healed.

B. Methods of Planting
Different trees are cultivated in different ways.
There are two ways of planting: direct and indirect.

Direct planting is a method of planting where the seeds or parts of a

plant are directly planted in the soil where it will germinate and grow into full-
grown trees.

The use of high quality seeds results in high productivity. High quality seeds have
a high percentage of germination and correct moisture content and are free
from seed pests, diseases, and other physical impurities. They should come from
a tree with a uniform height and heading, a characteristic known as varietal
purity. To maintain high quality seeds, the following steps are recommended:
1. Remove off-type, diseased, and damaged seeds.
2. Label seeds properly.
3. Select and preserve only mature seeds and dry them under the sun until
proper moisture is attained.

C. Preparing Seeds for Planting

There are different ways of preparing seeds. One way is by placing the seeds
under the sun before planting. One example of this is the ipil-ipil tree. Some
seeds like the mango have to be removed from their hard shells before planting.
Seeds like santol need to be dried before planted in the soil. There are also
seeds that need to be soaked in water before planting, like the seeds of ipil-ipil.
Seeds of avocado are planted as is with the bigger end of the seed below the
soil surface.

D. Seed Germination

Seeds need moisture, warmth, oxygen, and, in some instances, sunlight in order
to germinate. Small seeds are sown in a seed box before setting them out in the
field. Seeds can also be germinated in small plastic trays, pots, and other
relatively small containers filled with soil medium recommended for
seed propagation. The bottom of the seed boxes should have tiny holes to allow
drainage.

Before the seed is sown, the soil should be moistened with a fine spray of water
until the soil has absorbed enough moisture. Make rows with pointed sticks.
These rows should be twice as deep as the size of the seeds. Sow the seeds
evenly in rows and cover them with loose soil then press the soil gently.
If you will plant trees, the space should be 10 meters in distance depending on
the size of the tree.

The seed box should be kept in a shady place until the seeds have sprouted. It
should be protected from pests, animals, and adverse weather. Cover the seed
box with a sheet of paper to keep it from drying out too fast during the dry
season. When the seeds have sprouted, make sure they get enough sunlight for
proper growth.

E. Preparation of Seedlings Before Transplanting

Mortality is high during transplanting if the seedlings are not given proper care.
To ensure a higher rate of survival, the following processes are needed:

1. Thinning – There are times when more seeds are sown than necessary. To
produce strong plants, pull out some crowded seedlings so that the remaining
plants will have more room. Thinning accelerates the circulation of air and
provides a greater feeding area for seedlings to make them sturdier and
healthier.
2. Pricking – This is done by transferring seedlings from one seed box to another
to provide more space for proper development. Water the seedlings before
pricking.
3. Hardening – This process is done 7 to 15 days before transplanting. The
purpose is to make the tissue of the plants harder in order to survive the rigors of
transplanting. The water intake of the plant is gradually decreased and the
seedling is exposed to sunlight for a longer period of time.

F. Indirect Planting
In indirect planting, the plant needs to be transferred to its permanent place.
This is commonly done with trees. Nowadays, you can avail seedlings planted in
small plastic bags, ready for transfer.

Follow the general steps in the proper transferring of plants:

1. Place the seedlings away from direct sunlight. Make sure the seedlings are
healthy and fresh before planting.

2. Dig the area where you want to plant them. The length and depth of the hole
should be according to how big the tree will become. Leave two inches
allowance in the length and depth of the hole to allow the new roots to breath.
For big trees like santol, mango, or acasia, the hole is one meter wide, one
meter deep, and one meter long. For small trees like atis, chico, avocado,
and kasoy, the hole should measure 20 inches deep, 20 inches wide, and 20
inches long.

3. Remove the plant from the plastic bag. Do not remove the soil which holds
the roots.

4. Slowly and carefully place the seedlings in the hole. Make sure the main roots
are not bent.

5. Cover it with soil. Lightly press the soil.

6. Water the new plant early the next morning. Use a water sprinkler. It is
important to water the soil that surrounds the plant.

7. Remember: Plant your seedlings in the afternoon when sunlight is no longer

hot to avoid Withering

LESSON 4 MARKET DEMANDS FOR FRUITS

LET’S BE INFORMED
Harvesting Fruits
Harvesting is picking fruits in their season when they are ready to be sold or
eaten. Harvesting is done at different seasons depending on the characteristics
of each product. Generally, fruits are picked when they are mature enough.
Fruits should reach the market in good condition.
1. Mangoes, bananas, and papayas are harvested before they ripen. They
should be green and matured.
2. Pomelos and chicos should be picked at the right size and maturity.
3. Native oranges or dalandans are picked while green They eventually ripen.

The right time to harvest depends on the following factors:

1. The price of fruits on the market – The beginning of harvest season of any fruit
commands the highest price in the market. This is because the fruits are new in
the market and are not as abundant as when they are in the peak of harvest
season.
2. The distance of the farm to the market – Transportation comprises a big
expenditure in marketing the products. The farther the farm is to the market, the
higher the transport cost. Likewise, the rate of ripening and deterioration may be
affected by the length of time it takes for the product to reach the market.
3. The period of storage of harvested fruits before bringing them to the market –
The longer the storage, the higher is the risk of the fruits to deteriorate. When
some products become overripe and close to deteriorating, they cannot be
sold at a higher price than when they are fresh and at the right degree of
maturity or ripeness.

Storing the Products

Proper storage of harvest is very important to keep them in good condition.
Most fruits when ripened are perishable so they rot or decay easily. Therefore
they should be used or sold while still slightly ripe and firm.

Tips in Storing Fruits

1. Use a wicker basket in storing fruits. This will prevent the fruits from ripening fast
because the holes in the wicker basket will provide fruits with cool air.

2. Use a durable and clean wicker baskets for handling.

3. Classify the fruits first before placing them in the wicker basket, depending on
the ripeness, size, and shape. Separate the ripe from the unripe ones.

4. Place the heavy, unripe fruits in the base, and place the light, ripe ones
above, in packing fruits like papaya, mangoes, and pineapple.

5. Store in a cool, dry place.

6. Store the products in a clean place, free from ants, cockroaches, and other
harmful insects.

7. Handle the fruits carefully especially when placing them in the boxes or wicker
baskets to avoid bruises.
8. Always remember, the better the product, the higher the price.

To ensure success in selling fruits, the farmer or seller should consider the
following market demands:
1. Buyers select fruits and other products of good quality, usually based on size,
shape, and appearance.

2. Good quality fruits have the same appearance, size, stage of maturity, state
of freshness, and shape.

3. Fruits should be in their freshest state when being sold. They can command
higher prices.

4. Pack fruits properly in good containers to maintain their freshness and to avoid
cuts, bruises, and blemishes.

5. Price your products based on the current price on the market. Going with the
current price makes your product competitive. Generally, when products are
sold during the peak season, if your products are of superior quality, you can
demand a higher price . Many consumers prefer to pay a higher price if they
feel they are getting their money’s worth.

Ways of Marketing a Product

1. Retail- This refers to the sale of goods in small quantities directly to the
consumer.
2. Wholesale- This is the sale of goods in a relatively large quantity to be retailed
by others.
3. Consignment basis- This is an agreement to supply goods for a definite price
and at a specific time.
4. Announcement of products to the public.
5. Direct selling to the market place.
6. Selling through cooperatives.

Selling by wholesale is advantageous over the retail method because the

producer has a sure market for his products.
The retail method, however, is better because farmers earn more profits this
way.

Marketing through cooperatives is the newest practice. Farmers from

cooperatives in order to earn higher profits, while consumers get the product at
a lower price.
LET’S REMEMBER
Harvested crops in season are cheaper compared with those out of season.
We should consider the market demands for fruits in order to ensure success in
selling fruits.

LESSON 5 SOURCES OF FRUIT BEARING TREES

LET’S BE INFORMED
Just like vegetables and ornamentals, growing fruit trees is not difficult. The
problems lie in the lack of space or where to plant them.
In urban areas where spaces are very limited, fruit trees are not usually planted.
Some home owners do not like to plant trees because they say, a grown tree will
destroy the foundation of their houses because of their big and long roots.
But for those who have enough space, fruit trees like mango, duhat, tamarind,
banana, papaya and other fruit trees are planted. Aside from the shade that
they give, when they bear fruits, the family is, at least, assured of a supply of fruits
for their daily consumption.

In the province, fruit trees are sources of income for the family. Aside from the
added fresh air, they provide the ambience that a city dweller have not
experienced.

MANGOES
Our country is famous for its delicious mangoes. Although there are other
varieties, the carabao mango is the most sought after and exported in other
countries.

Mango fruits are of these varieties:

1. Carabao or super mango. This variety is the favourite of most people around
the world with its perfect blend of sweet and sour taste, soft, succulent with a
pleasant odor.
2. Pico. This is a smaller in size from the carabao variety but just as sweet, even
when it’s not yet ripe.
3. Indian mango. This originated from India. It bears plenty of fruits the whole
year round. It is a favourite appetizer by most teeners. Mango tree comes from
seed.

PAPAYAS
Papaya is a fruit rich in Vitamins A, B and C and aids in the digestion of food. A
good and tasty dessert, especially when sweet, papaya is an acceptable
appetizer or dessert of people of all ages. The unripe fruits are also valuable for
some main dishes as tinola and ginataan. Because of it’s papain, a
protein-spitting enzyme obtained from the juice of unripe papaya, helps
tenderize meat and used as an aid in digestion.
Most home yards grow papaya trees. They are planted by direct seeding, that
is, planting papaya seeds in a hole and cover with ¼ inch of soil. After planting,
in 10 to 15 days, seeds will germinate.
There is the so-called male and female papaya. The male plant, only produce
flowers but do not bear fruit. However, it is necessary for pollination. When
planting, allow one male plant to grow for every 15 to 20 female papayas.
Intercropping is a method where papaya can be grown together with
coconuts, coffee, pineapple or bananas. It increases farm income and prevent
the growth of weeds and/or grasses.

Sources of fruit-bearing trees

Fruit-bearing trees are available and sold in different stages of growth and ready
to be transplanted.

Among their sources are:

Commercial Nursery – Run by private individuals usually offering landscaping
materials and services.
Agricultural Institution – A school that offers a course related to agriculture
and other plant
studies.
Department of Agriculture – Responsible for any agricultural activities in terms
of vegetables and fruits .
Bureau of Plant Industry – They develop scientific improvement for each plant
specie in a locality and adjacent places.

Famous Orchard Farms in the Philippines

Rosa Farms, Zambales, Philippines
Rosa Farms is a 12.5 hectare mango orchard in the coastal province of
Zambales, home of the

Philippine Carabao Mango.

The farm has 888 mango trees nurtured for years. The farm is open to walk-in
guests who want to experience the ambiance of areal functional farm.

Kitsie’s Farm, Zambales, Philippines

Kitsie’s Farm has dozens of fruit-bearing mango trees scattered across its 15
hectares land with each tree yielding at least 200 kilos each.

Gapuz Grapes Farm, Bauang , La Union

Gapuz Farm has been in business for 30 years. The Gapuz brothers learned the
ins and outs of grapes growing in California.
Banana Farm, Davao Region
Banana is the leading fruit grown in the Philippines and a consistent top dollar
earner.

Davao Golden Pomelo Farm, Davao City

Carmelita Mercado is the top pomelo producer and distributor in the Philippines.
The farm has 350 hectares of sweet pink flesh pomelo.

Nica’s Rambutan Farm, Barangay Lapaz, Tibiao, Antique

The rambutan tree belongs to a group of fruit bearing tropical trees like longgan
and lychee. The name rambutan came from an Indonesian name “rambut”
which means hair.

Health Benefits of Rambutan (from www.healthbenefitstimes.com)

1. Decreases Unwanted Fat. (rambutan seeds) It lessens the body fat

2. Skin Care. (raw rambutan seeds) For healthy, softer and gentle skin
3. Hair Care. (rambutan leaves) For excellent hair regrowth
4. Treats Dysentery. (rambutan skin)
5. Treats Diabetes. (dried fried rambutan seeds)
6. Cures Fever. (dried rambutan skin)
7. Increases Energy.
8. Strengthen Bones.
9. Increases Immune System. Can easily enhance bones because of its high
calcium, phosphorus and iron content
10. Anti-Cancer. It consists of anti-oxidants components
11. Protector of Free Radicals. It’s rich in gallic acid
12. Rich in Vitamin C.
13. Blood Formation. Rich in iron that help avoid anemia
14. Healthy Digestion. It’s rich in fiber that helps prevent bowel problems
15. Improve Sperm Quality and Prevent Cancer

Grace’s Lanzones Farm, Guyam, Indang Cavite, Philippines

It has 200 fully growned lanzones that earn about 120,000 to 150,000 per
harvest.

Dalandan Farm, Bayombong, Nueva Viscaya, Philippines

Dalandan or kahel originated from China. This fruit is flattened and turns yellow
or reddish orange when mature. It consists of 10-14 segments easily separated
from one another to form an open core.
Durian Fruit, Davao City, Philippines
The Durian fruit is popular due to its strong aroma and unique taste. It is also
grown in Thailand and Indonesia. Many often says. “ It smells like hell, but it tastes
like heaven”. The flesh is rich in carbohydrate, proteins, vitamins ( thiamine,
riboflavin and Vitamins A and C), and minerals (calcium, phosphorous,
potassium and iron). The flesh is eaten fresh or processed into jams, marmalade,
spread, pastillas, or flavouring for ice cream, candies, cakes and rolls.

LET’S REMEMBER
Fruit trees provide us shade, fruits, fresh air, good ambience, income, vitamins
and minerals. They serve
as appetizer, dessert and aids in digestion.

LESSON 5 TYPES OF ORCHARD FARMS

LET’S BE INFORMED
Orchard is a piece of land planted with fruit trees or nut trees. It is also known as
fruit farm. Therefore, an orchard can have any kind of fruit trees in it, be it
mango, papaya, orange, duhat, banana, etc.

Types of Orchard Farms

Fruit Orchards
Fruit orchards include any facility focused on growing tree-bearing fruits.
Citrus trees, such as those bearing lemons, limes or oranges, may be grown all
together in large citrus orchards, or individually in smaller facilities. Plantations
that grow fruit-bearing bushes generally don't fall under this category. These
include fruits not grown on trees.

Nut Orchards
Nut orchards include a large variety of facilities that produce nut-bearing
trees. These include orchards that grow popular nuts like cashews, walnuts and
almonds. This category also includes cocoa and chocolate-producing nuts, as
well as coconuts. Some orchard owners produce pine trees for their edible pine
nuts.

Seed Orchards
Seed orchards focus primarily on growing trees that produce seeds rather
than nuts or fruit. These seeds are then sold to commercial distributors for resale
to the public in small seed packets. They may also be sold to large agricultural
facilities or used for food production. Seed orchards can further be divided into
two categories based on how they are established. In a seedling orchard, trees
are selected through controlled pollination. In a clonal seed orchard, seeds are
distributed through methods such as cutting and tissue culture, resulting in an
easier harvest overall.

Home or Backyard Orchards

Home orchards are small gardens where grafted trees are needed and small
enough to fit in the garden.

Factors to consider in choosing fruit trees for your orchard:

1. Choose fruit trees which are suited to your location.
2. Choose trees based on your needs or market demands.
3. Consider how much effort you will exert.
4. Plant the right fruits.
5. Choose the best time for planting.
6. Consider the climate in your area.
7. For healthiest and tastiest fruit, choose the sunniest available planting
location.

LESSON 7: PROPER WAYS OF PROPAGATING TREES AND FRUIT-

BEARING TREES
Plant propagation is a method or reproducing, increasing, or multiplying plant
species. It is being practiced because of the following reasons:
1. To increase the number of plant species
2. To produce plant varieties that are resistant to some insect pests and
diseases
3. To evolve new and better varieties of plants suited to different conditions of
soil and climate
4. To accelerate and at the same time lessen the bearing age of plants
5. To avert the extinction of some plant species

PROPER WAY OF PROPAGATING FRUIT-BEARING TREES

• Cutting - The leaves are removed and the stems are cut 10 inches long.
One—half of the cutting
is inserted into the soil. Example : Sinigwelas, Kamoteng kahoy

• Marcotting or Air layering – induces the stem to develop roots while it is still
growing on the mother plant.
The steps are as follows:
a. Select a healthy branch.
b. Remove a ring-like layer of soft bark about 2 to 3 inches long or until you
reach the bark about 2 to 3
inches long or until you reach the hard, wood layer.
c. Apply sphagnum moss around the cut surface.
d. Cover securely with a piece of plastic sheet.
e. Tie both ends to prevent drying of the rooting medium. Keep it moist.
f. Cut the marcot just below the ball of sphagnum moss when sufficient roots
develop.
g. Remove some leaves to further induce root development.
h. Place the potted in a cool and shady place

• Grafting – a plant propagation method that involves inserting a scion into

a stock so that they will form a union and grow together.

Steps in Grafting
1. Preparing the Stock. Start at the cut surface of the rootstock and make a
vertical slit through the bark where each scion can be inserted (2 inches long
and spaced 1 inch apart).

2. Preparing the Scion. Since multiple scions are usually inserted around the
cut surface of the rootstock, prepare several scions for each graft. Cut the base
of each scion to a 11⁄2- to 2-inch tapered wedge on one side only.

3. Inserting the Scion. Loosen the bark slightly and insert the scion so that the
wedge-shaped tapered surface of the scion is against the exposed wood under
the flap of bark. Push the scion firmly down into place behind the flap of bark,
replace the bark flap, and nail the scion in place by driving one
or two wire brads through the bark and scion into the rootstock. Insert a scion
every 3 to 4 inches around the cut perimeter of the rootstock.

4. Securing the Graft. Seal all exposed surfaces with grafting wax or grafting
paint. Once the scions
have begun to grow, leave only the most vigorous one on each stub; prune out
all the others. Bark
grafts tend to form weak unions and therefore usually require staking or support
during the first few
years.

• Budding – the process of transferring the lateral bud taken from the scion
to the stock of the
same family.

The steps are the following:

1. Cut bud sticks from strong shoots of the present season's growth with mature
buds that are slightly brownish in color.
2. Clip off the leaves from the bud sticks, leaving 1/2 inch of the leafstalk for a
handle.
3. Discard the soft tips of the bud sticks.
4. Choose branches from the rootstock that are the size of a lead pencil up to
1/2 inch diameter. Larger branches have too thick a bark for this method to
work.
5. On the rootstock, about 15 or more inches from the trunk, make a T cut across
the bark.
6. With a knife blade, lift the corners and carefully loosen the bark.
7. Cut a bud from the bud stick which includes a thin piece of attached wood.
8. Slide the bud under the flaps of the bark on the rootstock until the ends are
firmly. Using electrician's tape, tie the bud to the rootstock.
10. Wrap the ends tightly, but be sure not to cover the bud with tape.
11. In two to three weeks, cut the tie so you will not girdle the graft.
12. The next year, cut the rootstock off above the graft when the bud starts
growing.
13. Remove any shoots below the graft.
14. The second year, remove all growth from the tree except the bud grafted
shoots.

LESSON 8 LAYOUT DESIGN FOR AN ORCHARD GARDEN

LET’S BE INFORMED
Good site preparation and layout are extremely important in successfully
establishing fruit plantings. Eliminating potential problems before planting will
reduce money and effort needed in later management practices for this long-
term investment.

Preparing the Site

The following suggestions about site preparation apply mainly to the
commercial or hobby producer, but some have equal application to the home
gardener.

1. Get soil sample for nematodes. If damaging nematodes are found, this site
may have to be avoided for a period of time until it can be placed into a grass
or other plant rotation for 1 or more years. There are no longer any chemicals
registered to kill nematodes in home gardens. Home gardeners may try
solarization of site during summer months. Commercial growers do have
nematicides available for use but are also using nonchemical control methods.
2. Remove stumps, large rocks, and other debris from the site.
3. Plow the top and subsoil in the area to remove as many roots and smaller
rocks as possible. Roots left in the soil can contribute to root-rot problems in fruit
trees.
4. Test the soil, and apply lime, phosphorus, and other fertilizer nutrients
according to soil test recommendations.
5. Apply about 50 to 75 percent of the lime, phosphorus, and other elements on
the surface, and plow as deeply as possible to get them into the root zone.
Deep-plowing of lime and fertilizer is especially important for tree fruit. After
deep plowing, apply the remaining 25 to 50 percent of these chemicals
according to soil test recommendations, and disc them into the surface 6 to 10
inches.

Layout Systems in Orchard Planting

After preparing the site and determining the size of the orchard, you must next
decide on a plan or arrangement for the orchard.
The plan showing the arrangement of plants in an orchard is known as the
“orchard layout”. There are several systems of planting, these are the following:

A. Square System
For a fairly level site, use the rectangular or square design. It is most easy and
popular method of planting fruit plant. In this system row to row and plant to
plant distances are kept similar. The plants are planted exactly at right angle at
each corner. Thus, every four plants make one square. This is good for Mango,
Banana and citrus crops.

Advantages
1.Irrigation channels and paths can be made straight.
2.Operations like plowing, harrowing, cultivation, spraying and harvesting
becomes easy.
3.Better supervision of the orchard is possible as one gets a view of the orchard
from one end to the other.
Disadvantages
1.Comparatively less number of trees are accommodated in given area.
2. A lot of space in the centre of each square is wasted i.e, certain amount of
space in the middle of four trees is wasted.

Lay out procedures :

a) Establish a base line/row.
b) Mark position of trees on this line using the wooden stakes on both sides of
the base lines.
c) Using right angle shaft, extend lines perpendicular to the base line from every
position of the trees marked.
d) Stakes are fixed on these lines at plant to plant distance .

B. Rectangular System
The square and rectangle are the most commonly used systems for laying out
orchards. The rectangular design is used to set trees at unequal distances, as for
example with dwarf orange, using a 9- by 15-foot rectangle to set trees 9 feet
apart in one direction and 15 feet in the other. Most growers
prefer to arrange their orchards in straight rows for ease of working. Thus,
rectangular system accommodates more plants in rows. The plants get proper
space and sunlight for their growth and development.

Lay out procedures :

The procedure is the same as for the square system. The row to row distance is
more than the plant to plant distance and the row to row distance forms the
length of the rectangle.

Advantages
1.Intercultural operations can be carried out easily.
2.Irrigation channel can be made length and breadth wise
3.Light can penetrate into the orchard through the large inter spaces between
rows.
4.Better supervision is possible.
5.Intercropping is possible.
6. Inter-cultural operations can be carried out through both ways.

Disadvantages
1.A large area of the orchard between rows is wasted if intercropping is not
practiced.
2.Less number of trees are planted.

Lay out procedures :

The procedure is the same as that of the square system. The row to row
distance is more than the plant to plant distance and the row to row distance
forms the length of the rectangle.

C.Quincunx System/Diamond Pattern

This system is also known as filler or diagonal system. This is a modification over
square system of layout. To make use of the empty space in the center of each
square is by planting another plant. The plants that are planted in the center of
each square along with tall growing plants at the corners of squares are termed
as “filler ” plants. Generally, filler trees will be of short duration and not be of the
same kind as those planted on the corners of the square. When main plants of
the orchard resume their proper shape, the filler plants are uprooted. Guava,
Peaches, Papaya etc. are important filler plants.

Advantages
1. Additional income can be earned from the filler crop till the main crop
comes into bearing.
2.Compared to square to square and rectangular systems, almost double the
number of trees can be
planted initially.
3.Maximum utilization of the land is possible. Increases approximately 10% of the
plants in the square method.

Disadvantages
1.Skill is required to layout the orchard.
2.Inter/filler crop can interfere with the growth of the main crop.
3.Spacing of the main crop is reduced if the filler crop is allowed to continue
after the growth of the main crop.
4. Intercultural operations is difficult.

Layout procedures:
Follow the procedure for the layout of a square system. In addition to this, mark
the center of each square with stake for the filler plants by drawing the
diagonals.

D. Hexagonal / Triangular System

This system accommodates 15% more plants than square system. The plants are
planted at the corner of equilateral triangle. Thus, six trees are planted making a
hexagon. Seventh tree is planted in the center. This is very intense method of
planting and hence requires fertile land. In the suburb of cities where land is
costly, this system is worth adopting. However, the laying out of the system is
hard and cumbersome.

Advantages
1.Compared to square system 15% more trees can be planted.
2.It is an ideal system for fertile and well irrigated land.
3.Plant to plant distance can be maintained .
4.More income can be obtained.

Disadvantages
1.Skill is required to layout the orchard.
2. Intercultural operations maybe difficult.

Layout procedures
1. Establish a base line on one side of the field as in the square system.
2. Mark the position of trees on the base line at the desired distance and fix the
stakes. Make equilateral triangles on the base line maintaining the sides of the
triangles equal to plant to plant distance.
3. Mark all the triangles with stakes and join them into a line to form the second
line of trees. Similarly, make equilateral triangles on the second line and cover
the whole land.
E. Contour system.
If the land is rugged and steep, follow the contour of the hillside. It is adopted in
hilly areas for planting fruit plants where land is undulated and soil erosion is a
great threat. The contour system helps prevent or reduce erosion and conserve
moisture. The layout is started from the lowest level and the tree rows are
planted along uniform slopes at right angle to the slope with a view to reduce
loss of top soil due to erosion. The width of contour terrace varies according to
the slope of the hill. On steep or rugged sites, contour systems help prevent or
reduce erosion and conserve moisture. Since rainfall, slope, soil, and other
conditions vary in different parts of the country, growers use various
arrangements. At the present time, growers use terraces in contour systems
when additional erosion control is needed.

Advantages
1.This system can be adopted in hilly regions, can control the soil erosion and
helps simultaneously in the conservation of water.
2.Preserved plant nutrients which are supplied as manures and fertilizers.

Disadvantages
1.Laying out of contour lines is difficult and time consuming.
2.Special skill is required to layout this system.
3.Special instruments are required for making contour lines.
4.The row to row distance will not be equal and adjustments may be required in
the plat to plant distance.
5.Rows are broken in to bits and pieces.

Layout procedures:
Contour system is a little more complicated than any other system of layout
since planting has to be done on slopes. For the procedure, mark contours at a
distance equal to row to row distance on each contour lines. The contours may
be of full length or less than full length depending on variations in the
degree of slope. Since rainfall, slope, soil, and other conditions vary in different
parts of the country, growers use various arrangements. At the present time,
growers use terraces in contour systems when additional erosion control is
needed. In commercial operations, no matter which orchard layout is used, a
minimum 25- to 30-foot turnaround should be left at the ends of rows to allow
easy movement of any equipment and machinery.

Determining Planting Distances

Proper spatial arrangement is very important in new plantings. Aligning the trees
carefully not onlyimproves the orchard’s appearance, but it also makes orchard
operations easier. Individual tree or plant sites can be indicated with a stake.
The number of plants required to plant an acre can be determined by
multiplying the distance between trees in the row by the distance between rows
and then dividing the figure into the number of square feet in an acre (43,560).

LET’S LEARN
Orchard – is an intentional planting of trees that is maintained for food
production.
Plat – is a map showing the divisions of a piece of land.
Cumbersome – large or heavy and therefore difficult to use, unmanageable.
Undulated- have a wavy form or outline.
Contour – an outline especially of a curving or irregular figure.
Nematodes – microscopic round worms found in soil.
Subsoil – is the layer of soil under the topsoil on the surface of the ground.
Stump – the bottom part of a tree left projecting from the ground after most of
the trunk has fallen or been cut down.
Intercultural operations – permits the intercropping and cultivation even with the
use of mechanical operations.

LET’S REMEMBER
If you choose to produce several fruit types in your home orchard, you will most
likely have more fruits than your family can use. Only plant what you enjoy
eating, and avoid the chore of caring for more plants than you really need.

Most growers prefer to arrange their orchards in straight rows for ease of
working. Thus, rectangular system accommodates more plants in rows. The
plants get proper space and sunlight for their growth and development.
Choosing the right pattern for your orchard project will depend on the shape,
terrain, and slope of the land.

LESSON 9 SYSTEMATIC AND SCIENTIFIC WAYS OF

CARING ORCHARD TREES
LET’S BE INFORMED
One needs to carefully plan an orchard project to avoid useless and wasteful
spending. It is also important that once an orchard project is started , the proper
care for seedlings and trees are undertaken. There are tried and tested
procedures for taking care of these plants from cultivating , use of fertilizer, and
watering.

This lesson will present systematic and scientific ways of caring for orchard trees
and seedlings.

Ways of watering plants

Natural- This is nature’s way of providing water for plants through the rain.
Manual- This is with the use of a water pail and dipper or water sprinkler.
Artificial- Water supply is artificially produced from a deep-well, dams, and river
with the help of motors.

Under this method are the following:

Surface or furrow irrigation – Water is distributed to each row so it is applicable
only for row crops with uniform slope.
Sprinkler irrigation- This include the line, rotating, and micro sprinklers in which
artificial rain is generated through special devices that wet the entire field.
Drip or trickle irrigation- A special water source designed to discharge water
close to the plant, wetting only that area and leaving the rest dry.
Sub-irrigation- This type is very high in cost because the water source is
underground.

Proper irrigation is very important for each orchard may it be large or small
scale. It has to be done properly for the seedlings to grow healthy and the trees
to start bearing fruits.

Proper ways of cultivating

Cultivating the land is practiced to help promote the growth of roots and
improve aeration for fast absorption of nutrients by the soil.

There are two ways:

Off-barring- cultivating the soil in rows.
Hilling -up – cultivating the soil towards the base of the plant.

When cultivation is done properly, the growth of weeds can be controlled. Soil
texture will improve plant growth and distractive microorganisms found in the
soil will eventually die.

Preparing and applying organic fertilizer

Fertilizer is any substance added to the soil that promotes the healthy growth of
plants.

They are classified into two types:

Inorganic- artificial fertilizer made from chemicals ( liquid, soluble, and granular
form).
Organic – natural fertilizer from decayed matter, animals, and other natural
sources.

Fertilizer Advantages Disadvantages

Inorganic Odorless and handy
Always available in the market
Fast production
 Made of chemicals
Hazardous to animals
Expensive
Makes the soil
Makes the soil
unfertile(dependent to it)
Organic Natural
Easy to produce
Promote the growth of
beneficial organism
Adds more nutrients to
the soil
Very high in production
Foul odor
It takes time to
prepare
Examples of organic fertilizer
Humus- comes from decayed matters from plants and animals mixed with soil.
Manure – comes from animal waste such as livestock (big animals) and
poultry (chicken) waste.
Green manure – comes from decayed plants.
Compost – comes from decomposed biodegradeable waste in a pit.
Compost pit- composting by digging pit keeping compost underground.
Basket compost – composting home garbage in container.
Compost heap – a compost pile.
Vermi compost – comes from the waste of vermin (earthworm).
Liquid fertilizer – made from the juice of plants and vermin compost through
the process of concoction (allows the juice to decompose with red
sugar/molasses in a container).

Preparing organic fertilizers take a long period of time but provides a lot of
help to plants.

Benefits of using organic fertilizer

It increases the yield.
It improves soil condition. Clay soil will turn porous when organic fertilizer is
added.
It balances the soil pH. Soil pH is the degree of acidity and alkalinity of the soil.
Pulverized eggshell, oyster shell, bone meal, and any lime will neutralize the
acidity of the soil.
It helps the development of roots, flowers, shoots, and fruits.
Ways to make an organic fertilizer (compost pit)
1. Dig the hole for your compost pit.
2. Chop your composting materials finely.
3. Add the organic materials to the compost pit.
4. Place a board over the hole if you plan to add more scraps.
5. Cover your compost with soil.
6. Keep the compost pit wet while it is decomposing.
7. Sow plants above the compost after it has decomposed.

Preparing organic liquid fertilizer

Ingredients:
Chopped fruits and vegetables
Red sugar/molasses
Container
Manila paper
Masking tape

Procedure:
1.Mix sugar, chopped fruits, and vegetables in a container.
2.Squeeze the mixture until all ingredients looks watery.
3.Cover the container using manila paper and masking tape.
4.Put date of process, wait for ten days to harvest the fertilizer.
5.During harvest filter the mixture. Get the juice.

Benefits of using organic pesticide

The use of pesticide may be necessary to protect and prevent plants and trees
from getting damaged due to infestation. Following are some of the
advantages and benefits of using pesticides:
Insect pest life cycle will be stopped.
Infestation will be lessened.
Prevents the spread of plant diseases
The growth of plant will continue to progress.
Higher yield is expected.
The best thing about using organic pesticide is that it is not harmful to humans
and other animals. There is no side effect to health. It can sustain the budget of
growers because it is affordable, the materials are readily available within the
community and it is very easy to prepare.

Preparing organic pesticide

Ingredients:
1 cup of red chilli
1 role of makabuhay (bitter plant)
Whole garlic
1 cup warm water
Materials needed:
Apron, face mask, hand gloves
Knife, chopping board, medium bowl
Empty glass bottle or spray bottle
Funnel and piece of clean cloth

Procedure:
1.Chop all ingredients into pieces. Put in a bowl. Squeeze, and then filter using
another clean cloth.
2.Add water. Use funnel transfer the solution to the empty or spray bottles.
3.Spray to infected plants. The effectivity of the solution last only for 3 days.
Make sure it is already consumed before the time of expiration.

Safety measures in preparing fertilizers and organic

pesticide
Always wear the personal protective equipment such as face mask, hand
gloves, apron, working clothes, and boots.
Always read the instruction before doing the activity.
Follow the guide of proper posture while working to avoid straining your back.
Check the working condition of tools before using them.
Never leave your work unattended especially when ingredients are about to
be mixed.
Measure all ingredients properly and follow the correct procedures. Do not
deviate from the instructions provided.
Always focus on the work at hand. Avoid destructions.
Avoid exposures to pesticides.
Maintain a clean working place and free from any disturbances.
Never forget to take a bath and clean thoroughly after working.

LET”S REMEMBER

When cultivation is done properly, the growth of weeds can be controlled. Soil
texture will improve plant growth and distractive microorganisms found in the
soil will eventually die.

The best thing about using organic pesticide is that it is not harmful to humans
and other animals. There is no side effect to health. It can sustain the budget of
growers because it is affordable, the materials are readily available within the
community and it is very easy to prepare.