EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS ON THE EFFECTIVITY OF CHEMICAL

FERTILIZERS AND ORGANIC FERTILIZERS ON THE GROWTH

RATE OF PLANTS

Inquiries, Investigation, and Immersion

Leyte National High School
Senior High School
Tacloban City

Barbie Stef P. Albao

Bea Karylle Labuac
Roxann Clotilde M. Capapas
Grace Adellette D. Deñado
Psyrille C. Garnica
Gabriela Ann A. Jamisola
Chrisjan F. Magdalaga

Christine Joy S. Oquiño

Aishath Gweneth L. Peja

Jericho E. Petere
Amir John C. Quemado
Elijah Cyle Vanny C. Yepez

Joenilo E. Paduhilao II
Teacher

January 2023
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Acknowledgement

Throughout this study, numerous individuals graciously offered their time, support,

and unwavering dedication, playing an integral role in its completion. The researchers extend

their heartfelt appreciation to all contributors for the resounding success of this study.

First and foremost, the researchers express their deep gratitude to Mr. Joenilo E.

Paduhilao II for his invaluable guidance, enlightenment, instructions, and meticulous review

that immensely aided the researchers. His meticulous review and ultimate approval of this

research for submission have immensely aided the researchers in their endeavors.

Furthermore, the researchers are indebted to Mr. and Mrs. Oquiño for their gracious

permission to conduct the study on their property and for their exceptional care of the plants

involved. Their generosity and cooperation have been pivotal in the successful

implementation of this research.

In addition, the researchers would like to extend their sincere appreciation to their

friends and family, with a special emphasis on their parents. The unwavering support and

encouragement received from these beloved individuals have been invaluable, providing the

researchers with the necessary resources and materials to bring this study to fruition. Their

unwavering faith in the researchers' abilities has been a constant source of inspiration.

Most importantly, the researchers wish to acknowledge the divine guidance and grace

bestowed upon them throughout this research. They express their gratitude to the Lord for

granting them the strength, wisdom, and resilience required to navigate the intricacies of this

investigation. It is through his benevolence that they have been able to undertake this

scholarly pursuit.

THE RESEARCHERS
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ABSTRACT

In the face of a growing global population, ensuring an adequate yearly crop production to meet the
demands for food and agricultural products is both necessary and crucial. With the help of fertilizers,
adding substances supplied to the crops increase their productivity and provides additional nutrients
to the plant. This study tries to establish which fertilizer, chemical or organic, is favored for
promoting and accelerating plant growth. We tested the effects of compost fertilizer and nitrogen-
phosphorus-potassium (NPK) fertilizer on the plants Wrightia antidysenterica (White Angel-Angel),
Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong), and Origanum vulgare (Oregano) in order to provide a response to
this topic. The research was conducted in Brgy. 93 Bagacay Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines, which
offered plenty of room and appropriate loam soil for planting. The samples were set up by stem
cutting, and the plants were split into three groups: fertilized with compost, fertilized with NPK, and
unfertilized. Using ImageJ software, the plants' weight, length, number of stomata, and leaf area
were all measured. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used in statistical analysis to compare the continuous
results between the various fertilizer treatments. Our findings allowed us to arrive at the conclusion
that, when taking into account overall growth rates, NPK fertilizer tends to generate the highest
outcomes and demonstrates that it is the most efficient form of fertilizer. Some species, however,
fared better in compost fertilizer."
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE i

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ii

ABSTRACT iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS iv

LIST OF FIGURES vi

CHAPTER

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study and its Context 1

1.2 Statement of the Problem 3

1.3 Significance of the Study 4

1.4 Scope and Limitation 5

1.5 Definition of Terms 5

2. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 Related Literature 7

2.2 Related Studies 7

3. METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design 17

3.2 Sampling Area 17

3.3 Gathering and Preparation of Test Subjects 18

3.4 Data Collection 19

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3.5 Statistical Analysis 20

4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Results

4.1.1 Length Analysis 24

4.1.2 Biomass 25

4.1.2 Leaf Area 27

4.1.3 Stomata Count 28

4.1.4 P-values of Oregano, Kangkong, and Angel-Angel Under Compost

Fertilized, NPK fertilized, and Unfertilized 29

4.2 Discussion

5. Summary of Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations

5.1 Summary of Findings 33

5.2 Reflection/ Probable Conclusions 33

5.3 Recommendations 34
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LISTS OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Brgy 93, Bagacay Mangrove Nursery 7XH7+95F, Tacloban City, Leyte 18

Figure 2: Difference Between Fresh Weight and Oven-dried Weight 21

Figure 3: Determining a Plant’s Leaf Area Using ImageJ 22

Figure 4: Finding the numbers of Stomata Using ImageJ 23

Figure 4.1: Length Growth. 25

Figure 4.2: Fresh Weight vs. Oven-dried Weight 26

Figure 4.3: Leaf Area.27

Figure 4.4: Stomatal Count 28

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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCITON

1.1 Background of the Study and its Context

As the world’s population is increasing, it is necessary and critical to have sufficient

crops produced each year to supply food and other agricultural products. With the help of

fertilizers, adding substances supplied to the crops increases their productivity and provides

additional nutrients to the plant. It enhances the depth of the plants' roots and their water-

holding capacity.

This study aims to determine which fertilizer, chemical or organic, is preferred for

spurring and accelerating plant growth. In agriculture, farmers and gardeners differ in what

fertilizer suits their crops and plants best. It can be organic since natural nutrients remain

bound up in their natural forms rather than being extracted and refined. Organic fertilizer also

contains plant nutrients in low concentrations. Another type of fertilizer is chemical fertilizer

and inorganic materials of wholly or partially synthetic origin that are added to the soil to

sustain plant growth.

Another goal of this study is to identify which fertilizer is appropriate to be used for a

specific family of plants, whether with the use of organic fertilizer or the presence of

chemical fertilizer. It is commonly misunderstood how fertilizer works on a plant when it

comes to applying too many nutrients, which can lead to toxicity, excessive growth, and

reduced fruiting potential. Certain nutrients can also act as antagonists to other elements as

they compete with one another for plant uptake (Rene P. J. J. Rietra, 2017).
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In a study, demonstration of the growth improvement in sunflower (Helianthus

annuus L.) using organic under saline conditions (R. Ahmad, N. Jabeen, 2010). Another

study, states that increased application of inorganic fertilizers has deteriorated the soil quality.

The paper examines the effect of chemical fertilizer on the growth of the Capsicum annum

crop (Narkhede, Attarde et al., 2011). With these, methods for determining the plant’s growth

rate will be used. The biomass method is an important trait in functional ecology and growth

analysis.

Measuring fresh biomass (FBM) or oven-dried biomass (DBM) after clipping. When

the vertical biomass distribution is measured, it is typically the result of repetitive cutting at

specific cutting heights (Weiner, 2004). Stomata counting is another method to determine the

growth rate of Angel-Angel (Wrightia Antidysenterica), Kangkong (Ipomoea Aquatica), and

Oregano (Origanum vulgare). The leaf stomata serve as the primary site of gas exchange.

The more stomata per unit area (stomata density), the more CO2 can be taken up and more

water can be released. In stomata counting, clear nail varnish can be used to measure stomatal

density. Due to their non-destructive nature and low cost, optical measurements such as leaf

area are well suited for high throughput screening for plants with changed photosynthetic

rates (Golzarian et al., 2011; Zhang et al., 2012; Tessmer et al., 2013). An essential factor in

controlling plant production is the expansion of the leaf area, which controls how much light

is absorbed (Koester et al., 2014).

Thus, the student researchers will use three plants to examine. Kangkong (Ipomoea

Aquatica) is a part of the vine family and a semi-aquatic tropical plant grown for its tender

shoots as a vegetable. Oregano (origanum vulgare) is an herb plant that is rich in antioxidants

and helps decrease inflammation. An angel-angel (Wrightia Antidysenterica) part of the shrub

family, is also used for different medicinal properties.

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1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Main Problem:

What type of fertilizer is more effective in enhancing the plant’s growth rate, organic or

chemical?

Sub Problem:

2. What is the effect of compost with an amount of 180 grams and NPK (Nitrogen-

Phosphorus-Potassium) with 10 grams in terms of measuring the weight and height

of:

1.1. Compost fertilized plants

1.2. NPK (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) fertilized plants

1.3. Unfertilized plants

3. What are the growth rates of oregano, kangkong, and angel-angel in terms of biomass,

leaf area, and stomata density with the following set-ups:

2.1. Compost fertilized plants

2.2. NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) fertilized plants

2.3. Unfertilized plants

4. Is there a significant difference in growth rates between unfertilized plants, compost

fertilized plants, and NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) fertilized plants?
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NULL HYPOTHESIS

This study tested the hypothesis that there is no significant difference between the growth

rates of the unfertilized plants, compost-fertilized plants, and nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium

(NPK)-fertilized plants.

1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This research was conducted with the aim of providing information on the type of fertilizer to

be utilized in stimulating a plant’s growth.

The study is beneficial to the following sectors:

Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The subject of this study can increase

organizations' knowledge of the ideal fertilizer to utilize to stimulate plant growth.

Department of Agriculture (DA). Aside from the knowledge gained by the organization,

this study will provide a solution to the dwindling supply of food resources.

Society. People living in rural and urban areas will be encouraged to plant vegetables that

they can consume or sell in the market.

Farmers. This study can provide farmers with more convenient planting techniques. This

study aims to help the farmers determine which fertilizer to use, and this will benefit them in

the increased production of plants.

Researchers. The researchers will be able to determine which fertilizer, organic fertilizer or

chemical fertilizer, is more effective in stimulating plants' growth.

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Future Researchers. The future researchers will have new knowledge and could use this as a

guide to identify what fertilizer is appropriate to use in planting shrubs, vines, and herbs.

1.4 SCOPE AND LIMITATION

This research focuses on finding which type of fertilizer, chemical or organic, should

be used to spur and fasten one’s plant growth. This study will select one representative for

each type of plant: herbs, vines, and shrubs. The samples that will be utilized in the study are

oregano (Origanum vulgare) for herbs, kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) for vines, and angel-

angel (Wrightia antidysenterica) as the representative for shrubs. Each treatment will only

have one specie that will undergo thus there is no replication. The study will be done through

the utilization of the methods of biomass, leaf area, and stomata counting to determine the

plant's relative growth rate (RGR). In addition, the researchers will monitor the plants for 5

months and 10 days to allow them to essentially sprout and utilize stem cutting as their plant

propagation method. This study will not cover other problems such as the low growth and

wilting of plants and are not within the scope of this research.

1.5 DEFINITION OF TERMS

The following terms were defined according to how they were being used in the study:

NPK (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) - a chemical fertilizer that has nitrogen,

phosphorus, and potassium (the most important nutrients required by plants).

Compost- is an organic fertilizer. The organic matter used here can be leaf waste, vegetables,

and animal excreta that will help plants grow.

Herb- a plant that can be used to treat disease or illness. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an

example of a herb; it can be used to treat coughs and some people use it to heal wounds.
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Shrubs- are woody plants with numerous strong and somewhat thick stems. An angel-angel

(Wrightia antidysenterica), a flowering plant with a woody stem, is an example of a shrub.

Vines- a plant with a weak stem that requires support. Its stem climbs up trees and walls.

Kangkong, also known as' Ipomoea aquatica', is an example of a vine; it has weak stems,

which is why it trails on the ground.

Biomass- amount of matter in a living organism.

Stomata counting- is a method that is used to determine the number of stomata in a plant.
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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

INTRODUCTION

A. Plants

According to the CK-12 FlexBook in Biology (2021), life on Earth first appeared about

3.5 billion years ago. Initially, living things were straightforward, similar to today’s

microorganisms' shape and metabolism, but across thousands of cells, complexity gradually

expanded throughout millions of years, through natural selection during evolution.

I. Types of Plants

Shrub

Any form of thick, woody, perennial plant that has fewer stems or trunks at the base

and is smaller than a tree is referred to as a shrub. Shrubs are simple to identify since they are

often short and bushy and just a small portion of the stem is visible. Bushes are another name

for shrubs. Bushes are frequently used as ornaments according to BYJU’S (n.d.). This life

form's main benefit is its higher tolerance for mechanical disruptions. If one shoot is

destroyed, there are plenty more that can take its place. Shrubs are rare in closed lowland

evergreen rainforests because trees typically outcompete them for light in these ecosystems.

They are more usually observed near landslides, along rivers, or on extremely steep slopes,

where sunlight can reach the understorey, or at early successional stages. Most shrubs have
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very little possibility of having their seeds disseminated by wind in the interior of the forest

due to the reduced wind speed (Göltenboth, 2006). At least 13 out of the 14 biomes have

shrubs. Global land-cover types were estimated by Gong et al. (2013) using satellite data;

forests covered 28.4% of the area and shrubland covered 11.5%. Because they may grow in

forests as well, shrubs cover around 40% of the land. Shrubland was classified as having a

vegetation cover of greater than 15%; however, some bare land with limited vegetation also

contains shrubs (Gong et al., 2013), so the overall area where they can grow could be as

much as 45% of the world's terrain surface.

Vines

To grow vertically and improve light absorption, climbing plants need external

support. The performance and fitness of vines that locate a suitable support are higher than

those of prostate vines. As a result, a crucial step in the life history of climbing plants is

determining the position of an appropriate support (Gianoli, 2015). The mechanical aspects of

support searching, and attachment have been clarified by several investigations on the

behavior of climbing plants. In certain cases, their stems are thicker than a man's thigh and

can grow to enormous lengths. Botanists have long been aware of their peculiar stem

structure and the numerous ways in which they might affix themselves to other plants

(Richards, 2011). The diversity of climbers in forests is influenced by the presence of trellises

(Garbin et al. 2012), and climbers that do not successfully ascend a trellis frequently exhibit

stunted growth or limited reproduction.

Herbs

Herbs are one type of plant that is frequently employed in the medical and aesthetic

fields. Species identification and early disease detection in plants are complex tasks that are

difficult to automate. The manual identification technique is time-consuming and necessitates

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prior knowledge of the plant, including its shape, odor, and texture (Mustafa, M.S., Hustin,

Z., Tan, W.K., et al., 2020). According to the National Library of Medicine (2017), the notion

that "natural" products are invariably secure and healthy is widespread. This is not always the

case. Herbal medications are exempt from the testing that is required for pharmaceuticals.

Some herbs, including ephedra and comfrey, can be extremely harmful. Some herbs may

interact negatively with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

II. Samples

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram (family Lamiaceae), is native to

North America, originally from the Mediterranean, and has a long history of use as a food

and medicinal plant. Its name derives from the Greek origanon. A perennial herb that can

grow up to 80 cm tall, oregano has dark oval, fragrant leaves, and spikes of white, pink, or

purple flowers. Oregano was once used to ward off sadness and bring good fortune. It was

also thought to be a prized possession of the Greek goddess Aphrodite (Kumar et al., 2016).

The Greeks utilized oregano, which was also used in ancient Egypt as a preservative and a

poison antidote. In addition to being a great poison antidote, vulgare herb can be used both

internally and topically as a fomentation to treat convulsions, dropsy, and skin infections.

(Kumar et al., 2016). A total of 60 plant species belonging to 17 families have such a flavor

and color that they are frequently referred to as "oregano" (Gutierrez-Grijalva, 2017).

Asthma, bronchitis, cough, digestive issues (diarrhea, indigestion, stomachache), anti-

bacterial, anti-inflammatory, menstrual disorders, and diabetes have all been treated with

oregano in traditional medicine. Morshedloo MR (2017), Han F (2017), and Vujicic M.

(2016). The Mediterranean diet has long been known to have several health advantages,

including the reduction of gastrointestinal inflammation, cancer prevention, and

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cardiovascular protection. A common ingredient in the Mediterranean diet, oregano

(Origanum vulgare) has been demonstrated to have a number of bioactive qualities, including

antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. Oregano is a good

candidate for use as a natural food preserver because of its antioxidant and anti-microbial

capabilities (Veenstra & Johnson, 2019).

Kangkong (Ipomea aquatica)

Ipomoea aquatica, sometimes known as "water spinach," is a plant that originated in

China but has spread widely throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Asia is

where it is most frequently grown: East, South, and Southeast (Gangopadhyay, M et al.,

2021). According to The Worldwide Vegetables (2015), this plant, which is among the most

important yet underutilized green vegetables, has significant medicinal and nutraceutical

potential due to the presence of various secondary metabolites. Kangkong, also known as

water spinach, is a smooth, widely spreading vine with stems that trail on mud or bob up and

down in the water. Its stems are hollow, root at the nodes, and reach 2-3 meters (7–10 ft) or

longer in length. The roots are found at the nodes of the stems. When stem pieces break off

and take root, water spinach quickly grows new plants. The hollow, trailing stems can be up

to 3 meters (9 feet) long, but they are frequently much longer. The milky fluid is found in the

herbaceous stems. The stems of the plant float on tangled mats where they are submerged in

water. Water spinach is one of many leafy vegetables that are filled with nutrients. Water

spinach leaves are very nutrient-dense and contain copious amounts of vitamins and minerals.

They are great providers of protein, calcium, iron, dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

This cuisine is adaptable and can be eaten as a salad, vegetable juice, or green smoothie. As a

side dish or addition to other soups and stews, it can also be cooked briefly.

Angel-angel (Wrightia Antidysenterica)

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Wrightia antidysenterica, sometimes referred to as "Arctic Snow," is a tiny, compact,

semi-deciduous shrub that is native to Sri Lanka (syn: Holarrhena pubescens; family:

Apocynaceae). It is a popular ornamental plant that is prized for producing beautiful white

flowers all year long. When in full bloom, the plant is covered in tiny white blossoms that

resemble stars and, when viewed from a distance, resemble snowflakes. It is the ideal flower

crop for tiny gardens and spaces with limited space, and it may even be cultivated indoors

(Srinroch et al. 2019). The bark's distinctive anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory qualities

play a significant role in medicine (Wickramaratne et al. 2015). For the treatment of issues

with gut motility, Wrightia Antidysenterica is useful. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory

properties can be found in the bark. The bark's juice is used to cure mouth sores. Psoriasis

and dermatitis are also treated in the plant's leaves. The seeds have febrifuge and astringent

properties. Diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, and intestinal worms are all treated with it

(Herbpathy, n.d.).

B. Fertilizers (NPK and Compost)

Importance of fertilizers

With the increased use of fertilizer, it is also necessary to offer the end user fertilizer

of proper quality at a reasonable price. The fertilizer industry struggles with caking, dust

production, foaming, uneven distribution of micronutrients, and other issues. There are direct

and indirect losses as a result of these issues in terms of recycling, reprocessing, rejections,

and penalties. In addition to this, these quality issues give fertilizer a poor brand image

(Mathur et al., 2016). According to the blog entitled "The importance of the use of fertilizer"

(2021), the development of plants and crops depends heavily on fertilizers, which are defined

by law as "any material which, by virtue of its nutrient content and its special chemical,

physical, and biological features, contributes to the enhancement of the fertility of the
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agricultural soil or to the nourishment of cultivated plant species, or, in any case, to their

better development.". The usage of fertilizers, which is essential for the health of the soil and

plants, enables higher availability for cultivation and an increase in production, making it

possible to have access to food for a significant portion of the world's population.

Organic vs. Chemical

Natural nutrients are added to the soil by using organic fertilizer. It also increases soil

organic matter, enhances tilth and structure, boosts water retention, lessens crusting issues,

and slows down nutrient release. Contrarily, chemical fertilizers are abundant in all three of

the crucial nutrients that crops require and are constantly prepared to provide plants with

rapid nutritional supplies as needed (Jasuja et al., 2022). High concentrations of nitrates and

nitrites in contaminated water can result in hemoglobin problems. Furthermore, according to

environmental organizations, the majority of people are aware that fertilizers are required for

the appropriate and healthy growth of plants, but do they actually promote healthy plant

growth? Additionally, what precisely are fertilizers, and how do they impact the

environment? According to the Environment South Africa (n.d.), a fertilizer is a substance—

organic or synthetic—that is given to the soil to improve the availability of vital nutrients that

promote the growth of plants and other vegetation there. In comparison to chemical

fertilizers, vermicompost is the greatest organic fertilizer since it is a superior soil amendment

and a biocontrol agent, making it a more environmentally responsible choice. The best

organic manure for improving plant development and productivity is vermicompost. Without

harming the environment, it can boost crop output and shield them from hazardous pests. The

quality of the fruits and seeds was improved by the application of vermicompost, which also

increased seed germination, stem height, number of leaves, leaf area, leaf dry weight, root
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length, total yield, number of fruits/plants, chlorophyll content, pH of juice, TSS of juice,

micro and macronutrients, carbohydrate (%), and protein (%) content (Joshi et al., 2015).

Inorganic vs. Chemical

According to Mowbot Team (2018), minerals and synthetic chemicals are used to

make inorganic fertilizer, which is synthetic. Petroleum is frequently used to produce

inorganic nitrogen. A balanced inorganic fertilizer can contain ammonium sulfate,

magnesium sulfate, and potassium chloride and is high in all three macronutrients. The

majority of the minerals in inorganic fertilizer are mined from the earth. The majority of the

time, inorganic fertilizer is quick and easy to apply and contains all the nutrients that plants

require. However, regular use of inorganic fertilizers alone results in the deterioration of soil

organic matter, acidification of the soil, and environmental contamination. Consequently,

combining the application of organic manure and inorganic fertilizer offers a more

sustainable and economical method of managing soil fertility (Bhatt et al., 2019). In contrast,

despite promoting plant growth and vigor, chemical fertilizers have several drawbacks, thus

ensuring global food security; however, plants produced in this manner do not develop

desirable traits like strong roots, healthy shoots, and nutritious qualities. They also do not

have enough time to grow and mature properly. Toxic compounds from chemically generated

plants will build up in the human body and are extremely harmful. The production of these

chemicals, whose end products and byproducts include hazardous chemicals or gases like

NH4, CO2, CH4, etc. that will create air pollution, is where the harmful effects of chemical

fertilizers will begin (Kumar et al., 2019).

NPK fertilized plants

Results in the study conducted by Khalid and Shadeed (2015) have shown that the

application of NPK to plants has shown to have a significant effect on a plant’s growth
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characteristics, such as the number of leaves and branches, dry weight, seed yield, and plant

height. In the same study, the effects of NPK have also been observed to have influenced its

chemical properties, such as the increase in phosphorus in the plant, which stimulated the

plant’s growth parameters, mineral contents, and dry weight. In another study by Oleyede et

al. (2013), NPK fertilizer applied on pumpkin fruit results in a positive effect on fresh weight,

height, growth rate, circumference, and dry matter.

Compost fertilizes plants.

Because of the increase of environmental pollution caused by inadequate agricultural

practices, such as the extensive application of chemical fertilizers on plants, sustainable

agriculture is in an urgent need to minimize the environmental pollution. Therefore, using

compost on plants rather than chemical fertilizers has been recommended (Ojo et al., 2014;

Smith et al., 2015). The results of a study conducted by Rady et al. (2016) observed that

using compost fertilizer has resulted in decreased pH levels in the soil, improved growth

characteristics of the bean plant used in their study, an increment of chlorophyll content,

increased yield quality, but lower concentrations of Cd2+ and NO3. In another study, the

application of compost was observed to have improved the growth and essential oil

productivity of mint plants. It has also been shown to assist in controlling diseases and pest

infestations in plants (Abdou & Mohammed, 2014). In multiple studies, compost fertilizer

has also been shown to improve soil properties, such as reduced erosion, alleviation of soil

compaction, increase of phosphorus concentrations in soil, and decreased pH levels (Abdou

and Mohammed, 2014; Hernandez et al., 2016; Rady et al., 2016).

C. Relative Growth Rate (RGR)

Leaf Area
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An essential factor of a plant’s growth rate is the leaf area, as this part controls how

much light is being absorbed, and there are numerous ways to measure this. Such as the study

conducted by Horvitz and Westerband (2015), where they measured the leaf area of each

plant species using a regression relationship that was particular to their study site, and then

the area of each individual leaf was added up to give the total leaf area for each plant.

Another study claims that the simplest method in measuring the leaf area is to measure by

planimetry or graph paper (Sala et al., 2021). In the same study, using an image processing

software, ImageJ, the researchers calculated the leaf area by scanning each leaf with the

aforementioned software. Simultaneously, the researchers measured the leaf area by

measuring the descriptive parameters at the leaf lamina.

Stomata counting

The stomata of a plant play a crucial role in the plant’s growth, as this part controls

CO₂ uptake required for photosynthesis and the release of water via transpiration; various

methods have been used to determine a plant’s stomata count. In one study by Hong et al.

(2018), the researchers’ method for counting the stomata and to get the leaf area was to use

image analysis software called Image-Pro Plus on each leaf picture that they acquired using a

stereomicroscope (Nikon SMZ18). In another study conducted by Padoan et al. (2013), the

researchers first coated the leaf’s middle part on either side of the midrib and kept away from

the edges with a methyl acetate UHU adhesive (UHU GmbH & Co. KG, Germany) to get the

epidermal imprints of the leaf. Five minutes later, the dried epidermis of the plant was

carefully skinned off and then put on a microscope slide to be later measured for stomata

counting using an AXIOPHOT fluorescence microscope. Similar to this study, Sanchez et al.

(2013) applied nail polish on the abaxial (lower) leaf surface to get the epidermal imprints of

the leaves. The leaves dried for 10 minutes, and once the nail polish dried, it was removed
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using double-sided tape. The leaves were then placed on glass slides. The stomata on the

leaves were enumerated by evaluating the epidermal imprints under a microscope and then

counting each stomata in a 1 cm² area.

Biomass

There are multiple methods for determining a plant’s biomass: fresh weight and dry

weight. In the study conducted by Matsubara et al. (2016), plant weight, grain weight, and

stem and leaf weight were the three biomass parameters that were assessed. Ten mature

plants were bulked, dried for 48 hours at 80°C, and weighed for each attribute. Another

method is to first wash the roots of the plant using a 2 mm fine sieve and dry the entirety of

the harvested plant in a drying oven at 75°C for 72 hours before weighing it (Beck, 2021).

D. Hypothesis/ Synthesis/ Conclusion

Plants require both water and nutrients (food) to survive, just like people and other

organisms do. Water is used by almost all plants to transfer nutrients and moisture between

the roots and leaves. Plants need nitrogen compounds from the soil to grow; these might

occur naturally or can be added by fertilizers. However, using too much fertilizer causes our

waterways to eutrophicate and the emission of dangerous greenhouse gasses into the

atmosphere.

According to Murmu et al. (2013), on corn (Zea mays) and tomatoes (Lycopersicon

esculentum) grown on acidic soil, organic manure improves soil health and crop output more

than chemical fertilizer. The majority of research in agricultural fields has found that

combining chemical fertilizer and organic manure improves crop output while reducing the

potential harm caused by chemical fertilizers.

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It is recommended to nourish your plants with organic fertilizers and compost to improve

soil quality. Additionally, application of organic fertilizer such as compost results in the soil

brimming with microbial life and thus, ameliorates plant quality and natural produce.

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design

This study employs a quantitative-experimental design utilizing true experimental

techniques. This research design will be used since the researchers will be examining the

effects of compost fertilizer and nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) fertilizer on the

plants Wrightia antidysenterica (White Angel- Angel), Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong), and

Origanum vulgare (Oregano). The researchers can use this information to support or refute

their hypothesis on whether there is a significant difference in the mean growth rates of

compost-fertilized plants, nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium-fertilized plants, and unfertilized

plants.

3.2 Sampling area

 xxiv

The fieldwork and location of our study was conducted in Brgy. 93 Bagacay,

Tacloban City, province of Leyte, Philippines (11.2543°N, 124.961°E). Bagacay is 48

minutes (26.7 km) away from the downtown area of Tacloban. It was conducted on

September 24, 2022. The location is not an overpopulated place, which will provide more

space for the researchers to plant their samples, which are Wrightia antidysenterica (White

Angel-Angel), Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong) and Origanum vulgare (Oregano). The

researchers also looked at the soil's characteristics to determine whether it was suitable for

planting. As they were examining the soil type of the location, they found out that it is a loam

type of soil, which is ideal for gardening. The researchers selected this place because it has

enough space, a good type of soil, away from people, and is in a place that has both sunny

and shady sides, which is an excellent place to grow plants, especially vegetables, which

typically need at least six hours a day to thrive.

Figure 1. Brgy 93, Bagacay Mangrove Nursery 7XH7+95F, Tacloban City, Leyte

3.3. Gathering and Preparation of Test Subjects

In preparation for this experimental research, the researchers prepared three plant

species: Wrightia antidycenterica (White Angel), Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong), and

Origanum vulgare (Oregano). They chose stem cutting as a method of planting their samples

because it is simpler, more efficient, and more affordable than other techniques. This method
 xxv

allows you to cut a portion of a parent plant's stem and then plant it in the ground. The

researchers used a pair of sharp scissors to cut a section of the stem with a length of 13 cm for

Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong), 12 inches for Wrightia antidysenterica (White Angel-Angel),

and 13 inches for Origanum vulgare (Oregano).

The researchers will use compost (organic fertilizer composed of banana leaves,

eggshells, and dead leaves) and NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) fertilizer that would

be applied to Wrightia antidycenterica (White Angel), Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong), and

Origanum vulgare (Oregano). They will use a common system of planting, which is the

square system. In this system, plants are planted on each corner of a square (the row-to-row

and plant-to-plant distances are the same). The first horizontal line shall contain the

unfertilized plants, the second line will be the organically fertilized plants, and the third line

will contain the chemically fertilized plants. In preparation for planting, researchers first dug

a small hole in the ground, filled it with the fertilizer they had previously prepared (compost

and npk), and then they added the plants, which are Wrightia antidycenterica (White Angel),

Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong), and Origanum vulgare (Oregano).

3.4 Data Collection

The researchers conducted the study with a scientific approach and were assigned to

observe and measure the condition and changes of the plants in the study, namely, Ipomoea

aquatica (Kangkong), a plant belonging to the vine group; Wrightia antidysenterica (White

Angel-Angel), a plant from the shrub family, and Origanum vulgare (Oregano), a plant

pertaining to the category of herbs.

In the experiment, the plants were weighed and measured in length during their

normal phase using a weighing scale and measuring tape. Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkong) had

a weight of 0.020 kg and a length of 13 cm; Wrightia antidysenterica (White Angel-Angel)

 xxvi

weighs 0.040 kg and has a length of 12 inches; and Origanum vulgare (Oregano) weighs

0.005 kg and is 13 inches in length. The researchers used 0.5 grams of NPK fertilizer and 17

grams of compost. Each type of plants has 3 samples that have undergone non-fertilization,

organic fertilization using compost made up of banana peels, dried leaves, and eggshells, and

chemical fertilization using NPK (nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K). Overall,

there were 9 test samples in 3 groups of each kind of plant.

The researchers will use a software called ImageJ to make it easier to gather the data

needed for this research. ImageJ Inspire by NIH Image for the Macintosh is a free Java image

processing software. Researchers will use ImageJ to conduct stomata counting. It works by

scanning the image or selection until it finds the edge of an object. The software will also be

used to measure the leaf area. Based on the selection type, it calculates and displays either

area statistics, line lengths and angles, or point coordinates (Analyze Menu, n.d.). In order to

determine which plant sample had the biggest weight shift, the researchers also utilized a

weighing scale to measure the original plant weight and compared it to its oven-dried

biomass among the unfertilized plants, compost fertilized plants, and NPK fertilized plants.

3.5 Statistical Analysis

The researchers conducted an experimental examination to determine which fertilizer

is more effective in stimulating plant growth. Thus, to determine if there is a significant

difference between the compost-fertilized plants, nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium-fertilized

plants, and unfertilized plants, inferential statistics will be used. The analysis will be done

using Kruskal-Wallis. According to Ostertagová et. al. (2014), the Kruskal-Wallis test is

useful for comparing more than two independent samples as a general nonparametric test and

it can be used to test whether the samples come from the same distribution. In this study, the

researchers want to identify which fertilizer is more effective in promoting plant growth by
 xxvii

comparing compost as the representation of inorganic fertilizer and nitrogen-phosphorus-

potassium as the representation of chemical fertilizer, making Kruskal-Wallis ideal for use in

this study.

There are three methods that the researchers will use in determining the plant's

growth, and one of those is the plant's biomass. A plant's biomass pertains to the weight of

the plant. In the context of assessing plant growth, biomass, as measured by weight, serves as

a valuable indicator for quantifying plant development. In this comprehensive study, the

researchers aim to evaluate the growth of three plant samples: oregano, kangkong, and angel-

angel, over a duration of 5 months and 10 days, allowing sufficient time for them to mature

and be ready for harvest. They will be measuring the difference between the fresh weight

(FW) and oven-dried weight (ODW) to identify the treatment that yields the highest biomass

output. The plant's biomass will be calculated using the following equation:

FW-ODW

Figure 2. Difference Between Fresh Weight and Oven-dried Weight

Another method that the researchers will use is measuring the leaf area. The

interception of radiation and precipitation, energy conversion, and water balance are all

crucial factors that the Leaf Area Index measures. Thus, making it a trustworthy indicator of

plant growth (Trimble, 2020). In this method, the researchers will use a software called

ImageJ. Based on the website Eyes in the Sky II (n.d.), ImageJ is a free open-source software

processing program that allows users to view, annotate, edit, calibrate, measure, analyze,

process, print, and save raster (row and column) image data. See the process in figure 3.
xxviii
 xxix

Establish a Scale
a. Go to Line tool and draw a
Open the photo in ImageJ line on the ruler between
10 and 15.
File˃Open
b. Enter "5" ˃"Known
distance" and
"centimeters"˃unit of
length.
c. Select "Set
Scale"→"Analyze."
Pre-processing
d. Click "OK" to apply the
a. Select Type 8-bit→Image
option
b. Select Adjust→Image's Image Analysis
menu
a. Select "Tools"
c. Select Threshold→ list of →"Analyze" before
selecting "ROI Manager.
b. Check the two options,
"Show All" and "Labels."
Export ImageJ Data c. Select the "Wand (Tracing)
Tool"→list of instruments
d. Add [t] button in ROI
Manager.

Figure 3. Determining a Plant’s Leaf Area Using ImageJ

The last method that the research will perform is to measure the number of stomata on

compost-fertilized plants, nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilized plants, and unfertilized

plants. According to Grant and Vatnick (2004), when stomata are open, they allow water and

free oxygen to escape as well as CO2 to enter the leaf for glucose synthesis. Therefore,

greater stomatal density can significantly increase the possibility of behavioral control over

the rate of water loss and CO2 uptake. Stomatal density is measured by counting the number
 xxx

of stomata per unit of leaf surface. The stomatal aperture's width and length were measured.

Below is the process on how to determine the leaf area using ImageJ, according to Wu

(2017).

Load the image file

Run ImageJ program
File˃Open

Image Processing
1. Image˃Type>8-bit
2. Image˃Type>Crop
Display of Results 3. Process> Shapen
4. Image>Adjust> Threshold
5. Process> Binary> Make
Binary
6. Process> Binary> Open
 xxxi

Figure 4. Finding the numbers of Stomata Using ImageJ

All three of these methods must be used in order to quantify the experiment's findings.

The average values derived from these procedures will also aid in showing which fertilizer is

more effective in stimulating plant growth. The findings of these calculations will make a

significant contribution to future studies on determining which fertilizer is more effective in a

plant's growth as well as whether compost or nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer is

efficient and suitable for the kind or type of plant.

CHAPTER IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This section of the study presents the data, analysis, and discussion of the study on

which type of fertilizer, organic or chemical, is more effective in enhancing a plant’s growth

rate following the study’s methodology. The contents within this section contains the

acquired results from the data analysis of the length, biomass, leaf area, and stomatal density

of oregano, kangkong, and angel-angel in unfertilized, organic, and chemical treatments.

4.1 RESULTS

4.1.1 Length Analysis

The length analysis is used to refine the existing length metadata definition for

selective columns, such as data type string columns, based on the actual data values that are
 xxxii

present in the column. The researcher compared the individual value plot of before length of

the three categories of plant treatment: unfertilized, chemical, and organic. As shown in the

graph, experimental studies are used in order to provide the needed data.

As can be gleaned from figure 4.1, researchers observed changes in its length as

different treatments were applied in the plants experimented. Kangkong with the use of

compost treatment obtained the highest length given that three different fertilizers were used

and has different capabilities in aiding plant's length. The following indicates the final

changes for the plants experimented: Oregano has gained 41% of its length compared to its

past initial length (unfertilized), 112% (NPK), and 4% (compost). Kangkong has 8730%

(unfertilized), 9104% (NPK), and 8895% (compost). Angel-angel has 13% (unfertilized),

19% (NPK), and 25% (compost). This observation indicates the representation of the

presence of the three treatments in terms of its capability in aiding the length of the spurring

of plants.

Figure 4.1: Length Growth.

 xxxiii

4.1.2 Biomass

For plant growth evaluation, biomass (weight) is one of the good indicators to

quantify plant development. In this study, the researchers monitored their samples: oregano,

kangkong, and angel-angel for 5 months and 10 days, enough time for them to grow and be

harvested. All plant species shared an equal amount of weight and height. After a designated

period of time, the unfertilized oregano experienced a 2200% change from its initial weight,

while the oregano fertilized with NPK showed a 4900% change, and the oregano fertilized

with compost achieved a 3500% change. In the case of kangkong, the unfertilized plants had

a 1700% change, while the NPK-fertilized kangkong showed a 4950% change, and the

compost-fertilized kangkong experienced a 5750% change. Lastly, the unfertilized angel-

angel plant exhibited a 150% change, the angel-angel plant fertilized with NPK had a 388%

change, and the compost-fertilized angel-angel plant experienced a 275% change.

Furthermore, the results of the study revealed differences in biomass among the

various treatments for three plant species: oregano, kangkong, and angel-angel. In the case of

oregano, the NPK fertilized treatment exhibited the highest biomass (0.155 kg) followed by

the compost fertilized treatment. Conversely, the unfertilized treatment yielded the lowest

biomass. Similarly, for kangkong, the compost fertilized treatment yielded the greatest

biomass (0.380 kg) while the unfertilized treatment resulted in the lowest biomass. Lastly, for

angel-angel, the NPK fertilized treatment achieved the highest biomass (0.100 kg) whereas

the unfertilized treatment produced the least biomass. (Figure 4.)

 xxxiv

Figure 4.2: Fresh Weight vs. Oven-dried Weight

4.1.3 Leaf Area

The leaf area of a plant is a key factor in a plant’s growth rate, as this part controls

how much light is absorbed to be used for the plant’s growth. There are a number of ways to

measure the leaf area but in this study, the researchers utilized an image processing software

named ImageJ and obtained the results of the leaf area of oregano, kangkong, and angel-angel

in unfertilized, organic, and chemical fertilized treatments .

As shown in the figure 4.3, out of all the samples the oregano with NPK fertilizer had

the greatest leaf area (11.438). Meanwhile, angel-angel had the lowest leaf area out of all the

samples (0.146). Out of all the treatments, the unfertilised treatment garnered the lowest leaf

area in all the plant species. Interestingly, kangkong with compost (11.062) had a greater leaf
 xxxv

area than with NPK fertilizer. Contrastingly, oregano (11.438) and angel-angel (0.546) with

NPK fertilizer had a greater leaf area than with compost.

Figure 4.3: Leaf Area

4.1. 4 Stomata Counting

The stomata of a plant play a crucial role in the plant’s growth, as this part controls

CO₂ uptake required for photosynthesis and the release of water via transpiration; various

methods have been used to determine a plant’s stomata count. The figure shows the stomata

density of oregano, kangkong, and angel-angel in all treatments.

 xxxvi

As shown in figure 4.4, it shows that out of all the samples the chemical fertilizer

treatment for kangkong obtained the highest stomata count (92713). While the angel-angel

with the unfertilised treatment obtained the lowest stomata counting (441). Overall, the

treatment for all the chosen species of plant, the unfertilised treatment for oregano and angel-

angel garnered the lowest stomata counting, however the NPK treatment for oregano and

kangkong is different, as it is the highest stomata count obtained for that treatment.

Figure 4.4: Stomata Count

4.1.4 P-values of Oregano, Kangkong, and Angel-Angel Under Compost Fertilized, NPK

fertilized, and Unfertilized.

The analysis conducted on all plant samples subjected to three distinct treatments

yielded consistent results, as indicated by the H-value of 2.00 and a corresponding p-value of

0.368. These statistical findings suggest that there is no statistically significant variation
 xxxvii

observed among the plant samples that were subjected to compost fertilization, NPK

fertilization, or remained unfertilized. The uniformity in the H-value across all treatments

signifies the absence of a substantial effect attributable to the different fertilization methods.

Moreover, the non-significant p-value of 0.368 supports the conclusion that there is no

significant disparity among the mean values of the treatment groups.

These findings provide compelling evidence that the choice of fertilization method,

whether it be compost, NPK, or no fertilizer, does not lead to statistically discernible

differences in the measured outcome. The absence of a significant distinction among the

treatments suggests that other factors or variables may be responsible for the observed plant

responses, warranting further investigation.

4.2 DISCUSSION

The application of organic amendments in soil serves as a viable alternative to

chemical fertilizers, effectively enhancing crop productivity while simultaneously improving

long-term soil fertility and quality. One such organic matter amendment is Azolla

microphylla Kaulf. (Azolla) biomass, which can be composted to create a high nitrogen (N)

amendment known as Azolla compost. A study conducted on upland kangkong plants

demonstrated that fertilizing them with Azolla compost resulted in comparable height and dry

weight when compared to plants that received urea fertilization, a type of chemical fertilizer.

This finding suggests that substituting a chemical fertilizer with Azolla compost is a more

effective approach for maintaining plant growth (Jumadi et al., 2014). However, a recent

study involving rhizobox experiments revealed that the use of chemical fertilizer NPK

significantly increased the total root biomass of plants by approximately six-fold. Another pot

study further confirmed that the observed changes in root length and biomass, resulting from

NPK fertilization, had significant positive effects on various parameters such as weight,
 xxxviii

length, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), nitrogen uptake efficiency per grain (NUpE grain), shoot

biomass, and grain yield at maturity (Duncan et al., 2018). Moreover, an increase in length

and biomass was also observed in oregano, kangkong, and angel-angel samples under

different treatments, with kangkong exhibiting the longest length when fertilized with

compost. Furthermore, it also similarly had the same impact on the NPK fertilized plants

biomass.

It agrees with the study conducted by Khalid and Shadeed (2015), that it has shown

that the application of NPK to plants has a significant effect on a plant’s growth

characteristics such as the stomatal density, in terms of plant growth, nitrogen is responsible

for amino acids and protein creation in leaves and stems, which provide strength and

structure. Plants convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into sugars that they use for energy via

photosynthesis. (Arktivist, 2022). Phosphorus is involved in energy metabolism and

photosynthesis during plant growth (Yan et al., 2021), and potassium plays an important role

in carbohydrate and protein metabolism (Hassanein et al., 2021), indicating that a reasonable

proportion of nutrition (NPK) factors directly promote the absorption and assimilation of

plants, thereby affecting their growth and development (Yildirim et al., 2011) as it is shown

in Figure 4.4. However, in another study by Murmu et al. (2013), on corn (Zea mays) and

tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum) grown on acidic soil, organic manure improves soil

health and crop output more than chemical fertilizer. In another study, the application of

compost was observed to have improved the growth and essential oil productivity of mint

plants.

There is ample evidence that plants that are subjected to drought and nutrient

deficiency decrease their photosynthetic activity and gas exchanges with the environment by
 xxxix

decreasing the area of their leaves, closing their stomata, and increasing the allocation of

nutrients to their roots (Khan N, et al.2019; Jameel S, Hameed A, Shah TM,2021).

In terms of physiological adaptation, such as efficient carbon gain and water use for their

successful growth and reproduction for coexisting with their host plants, stomatal density and

distribution in vines are crucial for controlling gas exchange and transpiration on the leaf. In

order to ensure their fecundity in competitive environments, vines typically coexist with host

plants. Guard cells may therefore adjust the stomatal aperture to regulate gas exchange rates

in leaf photosynthesis and stomatal conductance (Granados & Körner 2002). The resources

used by vines and their host plants are the same. Thus, vines may change stomatal density

and aperture to adapt to the changing environments created by their host plant.

In conclusion, under the developmental constraint of leaf surface, the leaf stomatal

density and distribution, cell density, and stomatal index of distinct vine species varied

among different life forms, environments, and growth forms. Furthermore, it also similarly

had the same impact on the kangkong plant as it has a higher stomata counting. Contrarily,

chemical fertilizers are abundant in all three of the crucial nutrients that crops require and are

constantly prepared to provide plants with rapid nutritional supplies as needed (Jasuja et al.,

2022).

Application of organic or chemical fertilizers increased the nitrogen in the soil which

positively affected the quality of the leaves and as a result, the leaf area increases which is a

factor in plant growth (Sanni, 2016; Al-Leela et al, 2019). Some study’s results has shown

that the plants applied with all the other fertilizer treatments (NPK, bio and organic fertilizer)

lead to a palpable increment in leaf area compared to the control plants (unfertilized) (El-

Sayed et al, 2018; Uka et al, 2013). Corresponding to the results of this study, the NPK and

compost fertilizer treatment produced a significant increase in leaf area compared to the
 xl

unfertilized samples in each plant species. In contrast, one plant species, Ipomea aquatica,

garnered the highest leaf area value applied with compost fertilizer. To which it is similar

with another study’s results where the organic fertilizer significantly affected the growth

parameters of cocoa seedlings, including the leaf area, and had garnered the highest leaf area

among all the other fertilizers (Adejobi et al, 2014).

CHAPTER V
 xli

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the summary of findings, conclusions, and recommendations

that may be useful in gaining a thorough understanding of the study under investigation.

5.1 Summary of Findings

Building upon the data and analyses presented in the preceding chapter, the

researchers sought to determine which is more effective in enhancing plant growth. The

study revealed that the utilization of NPK fertilizer yielded positive outcomes when assessing

plant weight and length. However, certain species, such as Kangkong, exhibited more robust

growth when exposed to compost fertilizer. Additionally, in terms of leaf area and stomata

count, compost-fertilized Kangkong and Angel-Angel plants exhibited significantly higher

stomata quantities compared to their counterparts treated with NPK. Lastly, when considering

overall plant growth rates, the application of chemical fertilizers proved to be more effective

than organic fertilizers, thus establishing it as the most favorable treatment.

5.2 Reflections/Probable Conclusions

After analyzing the data, it was determined that NPK (chemical) fertilizer had a greater

impact on enhancing plant growth compared to organic and unfertilized treatments. These

findings highlight significant disparities in growth rates between unfertilized plants, compost-

fertilized plants, and NPK-fertilized plants, with NPK fertilizer yielding the highest overall

growth rates. However, it should be noted that the effectiveness of fertilization varied

depending on the specific plant species. These findings contribute to our understanding of the

potential benefits associated with different fertilizer types for enhancing plant growth rates.

5.3 Recommendations:
 xlii

After thorough assessment and considering the foregoing findings and conclusions of

the study, the following recommendations are presented:

1. Given the proven efficacy of chemical fertilizer, specifically NPK fertilizer, on herbs

and shrubs, it is highly recommended that farmers adopt this type of fertilizer to

optimize the growth of their crops. By leveraging chemical fertilizers, farmers can

significantly enhance their agricultural yields, leading to increased harvests and

subsequently higher income levels. For vines, however, it is recommended to use

compost fertilizer.

2. The challenge of low agricultural production can be effectively addressed through the

utilization of chemical amendments on the soil, thereby leading to increased crop

yields. Consequently, this approach has the potential to reduce market prices of crops,

benefiting both citizens by enabling them to save money and contributing positively

to the overall economy.

3. In order to establish the reliability and generalizability of the current findings, it is

recommended that a subsequent study be conducted involving a larger sample size,

inclusive of trees. This expanded research endeavor will ascertain whether the

aforementioned findings hold true across a wider spectrum, providing more

comprehensive insights.

4. The future researchers will have new knowledge and could use this as a guide to

identify what fertilizer is appropriate to use in planting shrubs, vines, and herbs.

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 xlix

WORKSHEET 4
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Oregano) Biomass versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Treatment N Median Mean Rank Z-Value
CF 1 0.115 2.0 0.00
NPK 1 0.155 3.0 1.22
UF 1 0.090 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
Alternative H₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
DF H-Value P-Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 5
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Kangkong) Biomass versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Treatment N Median Mean Rank Z-Value
CF 1 0.380 3.0 1.22
NPK 1 0.315 2.0 0.00
UF 1 0.040 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
Alternative H₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
DF H-Value P-Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 6
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Angel-Angel) Biomass versus Treatment
 l

Descriptive Statistics
Treatmen
t N Median Mean Rank Z-Value
CF 1 0.065 2.0 0.00
NPK 1 0.105 3.0 1.22
UF 1 0.049 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
Alternative H₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
DF H-Value P-Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 7
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Oregano) Leaf Area versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Media Z-
Treatment N n Mean Rank Value
CF 1 5.325 2.0 0.00
NPK 1 11.438 3.0 1.22
UF 1 5.059 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
AlternativeH₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
H- P-
DF Value Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 8
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Kangkong) Leaf Area versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Treatment N Media Mean Rank Z-
 li

n Value
CF 1 11.062 3.0 1.22
NPK 1 8.861 2.0 0.00
UF 1 5.116 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
AlternativeH₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
H- P-
DF Value Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 9
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Angel-Angel) Leaf Area versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Media Z-
Treatment N n Mean Rank Value
CF 1 0.211 2.0 0.00
NPK 1 0.546 3.0 1.22
UF 1 0.146 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
AlternativeH₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
H- P-
DF Value Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 10
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Oreagno) Stomata Count versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Media Z-
Treatment N n Mean Rank Value
CF 1 13731 2.0 0.00
NPK 1 39140 3.0 1.22
UF 1 5249 1.0 -1.22
 lii

Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
AlternativeH₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
H- P-
DF Value Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 11
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Kangkong) Stomata Count versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Media Z-
Treatment N n Mean Rank Value
CF 1 36636 2.0 0.00
NPK 1 92713 3.0 1.22
UF 1 21363 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
AlternativeH₁: At least one
hypothesis median is
different
H- P-
DF Value Value
2 2.00 0.368

WORKSHEET 12
Kruskal-Wallis Test: (Angel-Angel) Stomata Count versus Treatment

Descriptive Statistics
Media Z-
Treatment N n Mean Rank Value
CF 1 1798 3.0 1.22
NPK 1 859 2.0 0.00
UF 1 441 1.0 -1.22
Overall 3 2.0
Test
Null H₀: All medians
hypothesis are equal
Alternative H₁: At least one
 liii

hypothesis median is
different
H- P-
DF Value Value
2 2.00 0.368