background:

Farming is a significant activity in Carmen, Agusan del Norte, with many locals depending on it
for their livelihood. However, the high cost and environmental impact of chemical fertilizers pose
a significant challenge (Tacio, 2021). A potential solution lies in the abundant Kakawate
(Gliricidia Sepium) trees whose leaves could be used as organic fertilizer (Carinosa, 2091).

The Kakawate tree, native to the Philippines, is renowned for its multiple uses. Its leaves, rich in
essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, could be used as an organic
fertilizer (Montegrande, 2015). This practice could reduce farming costs and contribute to more
sustainable and eco-friendly farming.

Despite the potential benefits of Kakawate leaves as organic fertilizer, there is a lack of
comprehensive research on this subject, particularly in the context of Carmen, Agusan del
Norte. The exact process of transforming these leaves into effective fertilizer, the potential yield
increase, and the long-term impact on soil health are areas that need further exploration.
Moreover, the acceptability and feasibility of this practice among local farmers are also not
well-studied (KAKAWATE (GLIRICIDIA SEPIUM, LEGUMINOSAE) AS a SOIL AMENDMENT AND
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF SOIL-BORNE PATHOGENS: THE PHILIPPINES EXPERIENCE, n.d.-c)

This concept paper aims to fill these research gaps. It will explore the potential of Kakawate
leaves as organic fertilizer in local farming businesses in Carmen, Agusan del Norte, focusing
on the benefits, the transformation process, and the potential impact on the local farming
industry.

By addressing these research gaps, this paper could contribute significantly to sustainable
farming practices in Carmen, Agusan del Norte. It could provide a cost-effective,
environmentally friendly solution that has the potential to boost crop yield and improve soil
health.

Tacio, H. D. (2021, July 13). AGRITRENDS: This wonder tree called kakawate. Edge Davao.
https://edgedavao.net/agri-trends/2021/07/13/agritrends-this-wonder-tree-called-kakawate/

Carinosa, F. (2019). MADRE DE CACAO (Gliricidia sepium) LEAVES ITS POTENTIAL AS AN

ORGANIC FERTILIZER. ResearchGate. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.27277.61923

Montegrande, A. (2015). Kakawate as an organic fertilizer to plants. www.academia.edu.

https://www.academia.edu/13985500/Kakawate_as_an_Organic_Fertilizer_to_Plants
KAKAWATE (GLIRICIDIA SEPIUM, LEGUMINOSAE) AS a SOIL AMENDMENT AND
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF SOIL-BORNE PATHOGENS: THE PHILIPPINES EXPERIENCE.
(n.d.-a). https://www.actahort.org/books/883/883_38.htm