INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The increasing demand for sustainable agricultural practices has

prompted the exploration of alternative fertilizers to mitigate
environmental impact and enhance crop yield. Banana peels, often
discarded as waste, contain valuable nutrients that have the potential
to promote plant growth. Banana peel is an organic waste that has
nutrients that are useful for plants. In the pursuit of sustainable and
eco-friendly agricultural practices, the utilization of unconventional yet
resourceful fertilizers has gained prominence. The banana peel, which
has been considered as rubbish and smelly, apparently contains many
chemical elements or compounds that are beneficial to plants.
According to Tuapttinaya et al.Tuapattinaya T, Prelly M J, Tutupoly F
2014) showed that the application of 200 ml/liter liquid fertilizer from
banana peel waste had a significant effect on plant height, fresh tuber
weight, tuber diameter, and dry weight onion bulbs. This part of banana
has a lot of benefits because liquid fertilizer from banana peel waste
has more potassium content than the other elements. So, it provides
influence on the lower plant organs (tubers). Banana peels contain
15% potassium and 2% higher content of phosphorus than the one in
the banana flesh. Besides

This research focuses on the production and analysis of banana

peel as a distinctive alternative fertilizer specifically tailored for pechay
cultivation. Banana peels, often overlooked as mere organic waste,
harbor essential nutrients that can potentially enhance soil fertility and
plant growth. Through a comprehensive analysis of nutrient
composition and application methods, this study endeavors to provide
valuable insights into the viability of banana peel as an alternative
fertilizer, fostering a more eco-conscious approach to crop cultivation.
Banana peels, often overlooked as mere organic waste, harbor
essential nutrients that can potentially enhance soil fertility and plant
growth. Through a comprehensive analysis of nutrient composition and
application methods, this study endeavors to provide valuable insights
 into the viability of banana peel as an alternative fertilizer, fostering a
more eco-conscious approach to crop cultivation. Once thought to be
nothing more than trash, banana peels are now discovered to be a rich
source of nutrients that promote plant development. According to
Tuapttinaya et al. (2014), banana peels have a high potassium and
phosphorus content, which makes them a powerful organic source of
nutrients important for the growth of lower plant organs, especially
tubers.

The environmentally friendly liquid fertilizer made from leftover

banana peels showed notable improvements in a number of growth
metrics, highlighting the unrealized potential of this underutilized
organic resource. The study aims to highlight the environmental
consequences of using banana peels as an alternative fertilizer in the
context of growing environmental consciousness. The research helps
lessen the amount of organic waste that ends up in landfills and
encourages the use of organic waste to create useful resources for a
more sustainable and circular agricultural system.

Objectives of the study

This study aims to develop an innovative method to determine the

contribution of fertilizer made from banana peel waste.

Specifically, this study aims to

1. Develop a bio-fertilizer from banana peel waste.

2. Determine the contribution of banana peel waste to pechay.
3. Evaluate the growth of pechay.
4. Determine the significant relationship between the bio-fertilizer and
water for pechay.

Significance of the Study

This study provides details and information on developing a bio-

fertilizer using banana peel waste. The information that can be gathered in
this research provides the contribution of banana peel waste in pechay and
will provide the benefits of it to determine the difference between fertilizer and
water.
 The study aims to determine the unique benefits of banana peel
biofertilizer over conventional fertilizers and water application. Observable
advantages include greater plant growth, higher nutrient absorption, and
improved resistance to pests and diseases. The environmental effects of
using leftover banana peels as biofertilizer are also examined, considering the
potential for less landfill waste and more environmentally friendly farming
methods. The research emphasizes the benefits for farmers and the
agriculture sector, as well as the environmental benefits of reusing organic
waste. The study aims to advance sustainable agriculture by highlighting this
novel technique and promoting more environmentally responsible and
productive agricultural methods that make better use of organic resources.

Scope and Delimitation

The general purpose of this study is to develop a fertilizer from banana

peel waste. In addition, it will also focus more on examining its contribution to
a plant and analyzing which formula or combination of bio-fertilizer is best for
its plant to determine the right amount and texture for an innovative method.
The production of the fertilizer to be developed will be done at Purok 2A,
North Poblacion, Maramag, Bukidnon. The scope of this research will be
necessary given the availability of essential materials and ingredients in the
local market of Maramag, Bukidnon. However, to produce the right fertilizer to
test on the selected vegetable, the researchers have a small area where
pechay is planted for production and analysis by its beneficiaries. The
researchers will conduct the study in Purok 2A, North Poblacion, Maramag,
Bukidnon.

The project aims to develop a bio-fertilizer for pechay, a vegetable, in

Maramag, Bukidnon. The research will take place in a small-scale planting
area, allowing researchers to closely monitor the effects of the bio-fertilizer on
pechay plant development and health. The participants will actively participate
in the growing and observation process, ensuring the success of the bio-
fertilizer used locally. The study will take place in a dynamic environment
where community engagement, local resources, and research come together.

The researchers aim to learn about the socioeconomic and

environmental effects of applying bio-fertilizer innovations in a community
context and the scientific complexities of bio-fertilizer creation. The study's
findings will have a direct impact on regional agriculture and promote a
positive partnership between research and society. The study's strategic
decision ensures practicality and feasibility, promoting a pragmatic and
community-focused approach to sustainable agriculture.

Theoretical Framework

Justus von Liebig's "law of the minimum" (1862) posits that a deficiency in
one essential nutrient, even if all others are present, renders the soil barren
for crops requiring that nutrient. This theory is often illustrated by the "barrel
concept," where the lowest stave determines the barrel's capacity. The growth
factor in the lowest supply sets the yield capacity, whether climatic, edaphic,
biological, or genetic.

F. F. Blackman's theory of "optima and limiting factors" (1905) states that the
rate of a process is limited by the slowest factor among several. For
photosynthesis, factors like light and carbon dioxide are crucial. The
"Blackman response" implies an abrupt cessation of the process if any factor
becomes limiting, though actual responses are often curvilinear rather than
angular.

E. A. Mitscherlich (1909) developed an equation linking growth to growth

factor supply. In the presence of all but one limiting element, the growth
response is proportional to the limitation element, following the "law of
diminishing returns." The increase in crop production from a deficient factor is
proportional to the decrement of that factor from the maximum.

Macy (1936) introduced the idea of critical nutrient percentages in plant

tissues. Liebig's law is applicable in the tissue-minimum-percentage range
due to insufficient nutrients for significant plant growth. In the luxury-
consumption range, Liebig's law holds again as a surplus of one nutrient is
offset by another becoming limiting. Mitscherlich's law of diminishing returns
applies during the poverty-adjustment range, representing diminishing returns
to added nutrient increments. Macy's model considers the relationships
between nutrient sufficiency and plant response in terms of both yield and
nutrient concentration in plant tissues.
 Conceptual Paradigm

IPO Model: Production and Analysis of Banana Peel as an Alternative

Fertilizer for Petchay

Output
Process
Input 1. Improved
1. Processing Petchay Growth
1. Banana of Banana in Experimental
Peels Peels Group
2. Water 2. Application 2. Data on Petchay
3. Controlled of Banana Growth
Environment Peel Parameters
al Fertilizer
3. Analysis of
Conditions 3. Monitoring Nutrient Content
4. Petchay and Data in Banana Peel
Plants Collection Fertilizer
4. Research
Findings
 Definition of Terms

Production: refers to the process of creating, manufacturing, or

generating a product or substance. In the context of the research, it
pertains to the methods and procedures involved in producing fertilizer
from banana peels for application in pechay cultivation.

Analysis: involves the examination and evaluation of a substance or

material to understand its composition, properties, and characteristics.
In this research, analysis pertains to the systematic study of banana
peels to determine their nutritional content and effectiveness as a
fertilizer for pechay.

Banana Peel: is the outer protective layer of a banana fruit. In this

context, it specifically refers to the peel as a raw material for the
production of fertilizer. The composition and properties of banana peels
are crucial factors in assessing their suitability for use as an alternative
fertilizer.

Alternative Fertilizer: is a substitute for traditional, synthetic fertilizers

derived from natural or unconventional sources. In this research, it
refers to the fertilizer produced from banana peels as a sustainable and
eco-friendly alternative to conventional fertilizers.

Pechay: known as Chinese cabbage, is a leafy green vegetable

commonly cultivated for consumption. In this study, pechay serves as
the target crop for assessing the effectiveness of the banana peel-
derived fertilizer.

Nutritional Content: refers to the presence and concentration of

essential nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen, and other
elements in the banana peels. Evaluating the nutritional content is
crucial in determining the fertilizer's potential to enhance plant growth.

Efficacy: refers to the ability of the banana peel-derived fertilizer to

produce the desired effects on pechay growth and development. It
involves assessing the overall performance and success of the fertilizer
in promoting plant health and productivity.

Sustainable Agriculture: involves practices that aim to maintain or

improve the long-term health of the soil, minimize environmental
impact, and support economic viability. The research explores the use
of banana peel-derived fertilizer as part of sustainable agricultural
practices.
 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

FERTILIZER

There are two main categories of fertilizers: Inorganic and Organic.

According to Linu Mathew (2021), Organic fertilizers are naturally occurring
mineral sources that contain a moderate amount of essential nutrients for
plants. They release nutrients gradually into the soil, maintaining a nutrient
balance that supports the healthy growth of crops. Additionally, they serve as
an energy source for soil microbes, improving soil structure and overall crop
growth. On the other hand, Inorganic fertilizers provide a quick dose of
nutrients, offering precise and artificial formulations for plants. While they are
efficient in meeting specific plant needs, their nutrient ratios are clearly
labeled, and they lack contributions to soil health, limiting their long-term
effectiveness.

Soil fertility, as defined by Mathew, is the soil's quality that allows it to

supply essential compounds in sufficient amounts and proper balance,
fostering plant growth under favorable conditions. When soil fertility is lacking,
fertilizers, whether natural or manufactured, can be added to provide
necessary plant nutrients. Historically, scholars like Van Helmont, Woodward,
De Saussure, and Liebig have contributed to the understanding of mineral
nutrition in plants, emphasizing the essential role of minerals for plant growth.

Fertilizers are crucial for ensuring sufficient food production to feed the
global population. According to Reyes Tirado of Greenpeace Research
Laboratories (2008), fertilizers supply essential nutrients like potassium,
phosphorus, and nitrogen to crops, promoting increased growth and yield.
However, despite a significant increase in fertilizer sales in the 1990s, the
improvement in crop yield was minimal. This can be attributed to imbalances
in nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) use, along with sulfur deficiency resulting
from the extensive use of urea. Farmers, following the current model, also
face challenges associated with the rising costs of inputs and recommended
agricultural technologies (NEDA 2004).

FRUIT PEELS AND BANANA PEEL FERTILIZER

Banana fruits are a widespread crop grown globally, particularly in

tropical and subtropical regions, contributing significantly to local economies
(Zhang et al., 2005). Despite their economic importance, the waste produced
by a single banana plant can make up to 80% of the plant's total mass, with
an estimated annual generation of 220 tons of by-products per hectare (Shah
et al., 2005). This substantial waste has prompted innovative efforts to convert
these by-products into value-added commodities.

A study by Wafaa M. Hikal et al. (2022) reflects a growing interest

among scientists in exploring and utilizing agricultural waste as a valuable
resource. In recent years, banana peels have gained attention due to their
bioactive chemical components.

Jariwala and Syed (2016) highlight that fruit peels, including those from
bananas, are often discarded in garbage and end up in solid waste dumping
sites. This disposal method leads to odor issues as the peels degrade in
dumping sites. Importantly, these fruit peels contain valuable nutrients such
as potash, iron, zinc, calcium, citrate content, among others, making them a
resource that could be harnessed rather than overlooked.

According to the study titled "Research and Development of Organic

Fertilizer from Banana Peels: Halalan Tayyiban Perspective" by Md Akmal
Salihin and team, the researchers utilized banana peels as the primary
material for their organic fertilizer, known as Potilizer. The banana peels were
sourced from local shops in Tutong and Brunei and Muara District, as well as
from individual gardens. Ripe banana peels with black spots were preferred
due to their nutrient content. The fermentation process involved the use of
distilled water under room temperature. The experiment employed recycled
utensils in line with the environmentally-friendly concept. The initiative to
create Potilizer arose during academic research on organic fertilizer by a team
member named Najwa. The team, motivated by the potential impact of the
fertilizer, participated in competitions, achieving recognition and awards.

The production of Potilizer aimed to address food waste issues and

raise awareness about waste reduction. The fertilizer's key ingredient is
banana peel, collected from various sources, including local banana sellers
and family members. The team emphasized the product's nutrient content,
particularly NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium), and conducted
successful trials, earning accolades in competitions. In terms of resources, the
team employed a collaborative approach with tasks divided among members.
Initial stages involved obtaining the product concept from academic research,
leading to the development of a prototype. The fermentation process, crucial
for nutrient extraction, typically took about a month.

The methodology encompassed academic research and field

experiments. The academic research focused on types of banana, additional
elements, packaging, and the fermentation process. The team reused bottles
for packaging to reduce waste. Field experiments involved cutting ripe banana
peels, soaking them in distilled water, and observing the fermentation process
for 4 to 5 days. Results and discussions revealed the product's testing on
sunflower seeds in different pots, with observations on plant growth and
potential challenges, such as ant attraction. Precautions were suggested to
maintain product quality. The conclusion emphasized the positive
environmental impact of organic farming, citing higher soil carbon levels. The
Potilizer was highlighted as a product with the potential to contribute positively
to the environment.

In summary, the study by Md Akmal Salihin and team introduces

Potilizer, an organic fertilizer derived from banana peels, addressing
environmental concerns and promoting sustainable agriculture.

The utilization of fruit peel powders, particularly banana peels, as a

resource for soil improvement and plant fertilization is well-documented.
According to Mercy et al. (2014), banana peel powders can serve multiple
purposes, including pH adjustment in soil, enhancement of soil fertility and
morphology, meeting nutritional requirements, and acting as a natural
pesticide against insects, pests, and nematodes, especially in citrus varieties.
This approach not only contributes to sustainable agricultural practices but
also offers an eco-friendly alternative to expensive and environmentally
detrimental inorganic fertilizers, promoting high-quality crop production.

Banana peels are particularly rich in potassium and pectin, with

additional concentrations of magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 (Jessie
Szalay, 2014). The peels also contain other essential nutrients such as sulfur,
calcium, salt, and manganese, crucial for initiating the process of
photosynthesis in plants. As highlighted by Kristi Stone (2015), banana peels
provide a diverse array of nutrients that enhance plant growth, prevent wilting,
and contribute to overall plant health.
 A practical approach to harnessing the benefits of banana peels is
presented by Kavili Sridhar (2016). This involves creating a DIY banana peel
fertilizer by soaking banana peels in a jar with water and then transferring the
infused water to a spray bottle. This homemade fertilizer can be conveniently
sprayed onto the soil, allowing plants to absorb the valuable nutrients.
Additionally, different forms of banana peel fertilizers, such as fermented
banana peels, granulated banana peels, or chopped banana peels, can be
prepared to suit specific agricultural needs.

In summary, the multifaceted nutrient content of banana peels makes

them a valuable resource for enhancing soil and promoting plant growth,
offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional fertilizers.

The Philippines heavily relies on its agricultural sector, crucial for

feeding its population. Despite having fertile soil capable of supporting various
crops, urbanization is converting these lands into industrial areas and
residential spaces. This rapid urban growth threatens food security as it
diminishes farmlands, reducing food production. Advancements in technology
enable faster completion of tasks, aiming to produce more in less time.
However, the increasing global population and unsustainable consumption of
natural resources pose significant threats to the environment and food supply,
prompting concerns about sustainability. Leif Marvin R Gonzales, Ramonita A
Caralde, Maita L Aban International Journal of Scientific and Research
Publications 5 2015)

The research aimed to assess bioethanol production from banana

peels (Musa acumitnata), utilizing their natural reducing sugars through
fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The resulting bioethanol was
tested for combustion, measuring burn time and flame characteristics. The
study indicated varying bioethanol yields from different fruit peels: banana
(Musa acuminata) at 7.62%. Comparatively, bioethanol's combustion
exhibited cleaner properties - lacking black smoke, low visibility, and
displaying a blue-orange flame, in contrast to gasoline's emission of black
smoke, high visibility, and dark red flame. Although initial bioethanol
production from fruit peels proved costly compared to purchasing gasoline,
the study suggests long-term investment benefits due to its cleaner and hotter
combustion properties. Abdani D Bandera International Journal of Research
(2020)

Household gardens are a traditional feature in rural areas, but the

challenge of limited space has prompted a focus on enhancing productivity
while preserving natural resources. The study, conducted from February to
April 2021, assessed the impact of different rates of carbonized rice hull
(CRH) on the productivity and economic efficiency of pechay. Employing a
Randomized Complete Block Design with five growing media treatments
(ranging from garden soil with recommended NPK to various mixtures with
CRH), the results highlighted that integrating 5% CRH with specialized mixed
growing media (T3) significantly boosted yield to 102.13 kg per 100 m2.
Specialized growing media, with or without CRH (T2, T3, T4, and T5),
demonstrated superior dry matter yield compared to plots with solely garden
soil. Cost and return analysis indicated that pechay production using
specialized growing media with 10% CRH yielded the highest return on
expenses at Php 2.57, surpassing other treatments. The study concludes that
incorporating 10% CRH into specialized mixed media shows promise in
enhancing yield and cost-effectiveness, strongly recommending its adoption.
NR Gonzaga, AB Gonzaga, BGS Silverio, JML Pabellon, RD Taylaran, LLC
Montecalvo IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science (2023).

This study banana peel fertilizer as an alternative to enhance the

growth and yield of petchay in a hydroponic system, incorporating banana
peel. Various treatments were employed, including different nutrient solutions
and combinations of additives. The experiment, structured in a randomized
complete block design, revealed significant effects on plant height, leaf
number, diameter, and length across different treatments. Notably, the
nutrient solution resulted in taller plants with more leaves and larger
dimensions. Additionally, T2 significantly influenced root length and dry
weight, leading to increased yields compared to other treatments,
demonstrating its potential for higher petchay production. Specifically, T2 and
T1 achieved comparable effects in achieving high petchay yields, measuring
11.14 and 7.98 tons per hectare, respectively.

The study assessed the impact of different compost levels on pechay

growth and yield. Utilizing a randomized complete block design with five
treatments, the analysis revealed no significant differences in plant height and
leaf numbers. However, leaf area was significantly influenced by the
application of a 50% garden soil and 50% compost combination (T3) and in
terms of yield, the fresh weight increased significantly with 75% garden soil
and 25% compost (T4). Both T3 and T4 demonstrated substantial effects on
leaf area and fresh weight, indicating that compost application positively
influenced pechay growth and development.

LIQUID FERTILIZER

Fertilizer application is essential to supply the necessary nutrients for

optimal plant growth, as the nutrients naturally present in the soil may not
always be sufficient (Hamid & Tanweer, 2021; Ikhajiagbe, Igiebor, & Ogwu,
2021). Plants require minerals and water for their daily growth, development,
and production processes.

The three main nutrients vital for plant growth—nitrogen, phosphorus,

and potassium (NPK)—are commonly found in NPK compound fertilizers,
which are categorized as inorganic fertilizers. NPK compound fertilizers offer
advantages such as consistent nutrient content, versatile application,
simplicity of use, and efficient transportation and storage (Susanto & Amirta,
2020).

Liquid organic fertilizer (LOF) is derived from the decomposition of

organic materials like plant matter, animal manure, ash, and water (Mangera
& Ekowati, 2022; Raden, Fathillah, Fadli, & Suyadi, 2017). This type of
fertilizer, sourced from readily available organic waste, contains lower
macronutrients but sufficient micronutrients crucial for plant growth (Devianti,
Yusmanizar, Syakur, Munawar, & Yunus, 2021).

Technological advancements in agriculture have led to the

development of natural organic fertilizers, specifically liquid organic fertilizer,
which aids in red onion production. Liquid organic fertilizer, composed of
extracts from organic matter like livestock and poultry waste, certain plant
waste, and other natural substances, is considered 100% natural and
environmentally friendly. This fertilizer's micronutrient content is highly
concentrated, providing the equivalent of the micronutrient content in 1 ton of
manure per liter (Kurniawati).
 Efficient nitrogenous fertilizer production and utilization are crucial for
meeting the food demands of the growing global population. Yuting Wang
(2023) advocates for the adoption of liquid nitrogenous fertilizers,
emphasizing their potential to enhance utilization efficiency and minimize
waste and environmental pollution. A proposed two-step relay strategy
involving air and water as raw materials could be integrated into irrigation
systems, allowing for controlled fertilizer concentrations for different crops.

In summary, these studies collectively highlight the potential of banana

peel fertilizer as an effective and sustainable alternative to conventional
chemical fertilizers. Banana peel fertilizer, being organic, not only promotes
plant growth but also contributes to improved soil quality and reduced
environmental pollution associated with chemical fertilizers.
 METHODOLOGY

Research Design

The study adopts an experimental design, specifically a pre-test/post-

test design with a control group. This design allows for the comparison of
Petchay growth between groups exposed to banana peel fertilizer and a
control group receiving regular water.

Locale of the study

The research is conducted in to ensure controlled environmental

conditions and accurate data collection.

Participants of the study

The participants will be the beneficiaries of this research which are the
people who are engaged in planting ornamental plants.

PLANT SAMPLE

The participants in this study are Petchay plants (Brassica rapa subsp.
chinensis). A total of 10 Petchay plants were selected based on uniform size
and health to ensure a representative sample.

Research Instrument

The instrument used in this research was the table in which we

gathered data from observing the plant’s performance.

Statistical Treatment

Statistical analysis will be conducted using analysis of variance

(ANOVA) to determine if there are significant differences in Petchay growth
between the experimental and control groups.

Research Procedure

Pre-Test Measurements
- Baseline measurements of Petchay plant height, and leaf count were recorded for
all groups before the application of fertilizers.
 Fertilizer Application
- Banana peel fertilizer was applied to the experimental group, while the control
group received regular water. Application rates were based on a concentration of 50g
of banana peel fertilizer per liter of water, applied daily for five weeks.

Post-Test Measurements
- After the application period, final measurements of Petchay plant height, and leaf
count were recorded for both the experimental and control groups.

Ethical Considerations

This study adheres to ethical guidelines, including proper care of the plants,
minimizing stress, and ensuring responsible disposal of materials.