Support Agronomic Crop work

What is Agronomy?
 Agronomy
 Is a branch of Agricultural science that deals
with the study of crops and the soil in which
they grow.
 Agronomic Crops covered by this Unit

 coarse grains
 grain legumes
 coffee
 Coconuts
 cotton
 soya
 peanut
 and sugar cane
 Agronomists work to develop methods that will
improve the use of soil and increase the
production of food and fiber crops. Agronomic
practices are steps farmers to incorporate into
their farm management systems, to improve
soil quality, enhance water use, manage crop
residue and improve the environmental
through better fertilizer management.
 Materials for Agronomic Production

1. agri- bags 11. Gloves

2. plastics 12. Mulching materials
3. bamboo sticks 13. Packaging materials
4. catching nets 14. Seedling box
5. compost 15. Seedlings
6. fertilizers flower inducer 16. transplanting supplies
7. fungicides 17. Detergent
8. marking pens 18. Brush
9. growing media 19. Pail
10. masks 20. Sacks etc…
Hand Tools
Hand Tools
- Hand tools are usually light and are without the help of
animals or machines. They are being used in performing farm
activities which involve small areas like school garden and
home garden.
Examples:
1.

BOLO is a general utility

tool when other garden
tools are not available. It is
also used in cutting
grasses, and digging small
holes for planting
• They can be used to
cut grass from a
standing position.
Two kinds are
available: with the
blades horizontal
and with the blades
vertical.
• Wheel barrow - a small cart with a single
wheel at the front and two supporting legs
and two handles at the rear, used typically for
carrying loads in building-work or gardening.
• A scythe is an
agricultural hand tool
for mowing grass or
reaping crops.
Fencing tools Augers
Brooms Ropes
sack trunks
How to Clean Garden Tools
 Let’sstart with the basics. Your shovel, spade, hoe or
even the blades on a hedge trimmer will be a lot easier
to use if you take a few minutes to knock some of the
rust off the blade. Not only will this extend the life of
the tool, but also it will cut through the soil better, and
thus will require less effort to use, if it has a nice sharp
blade. It is good idea to keep a large whetstone in your
shop
 the best way to use the stone is to find a way to
stabilize the tool that you want to work on. A bench
vise is ideal. You will be able to clamp the tool into a
place at an angle, so you can work on it. Clamping
the garden tool into place with a vise frees up both of
your hands to use the whetstone and gives you more
control over what you are doing.
 Apply a little bit of lubricating oil to the end of the tool
and carefully begin to work the stone over the blade.
Maintain a 30-degree angle between the stone and the
blade to form the ideal cutting edge for your tool. Not
only will the edge become sharper, but you will also be
removing any pitting and rust that has formed at the
edge of your tool’s blade.
 In instances where the moving parts of your tools( such as with
of any new pruners, shears and loppers) have frozen in place,
like spring and pivot joints, you should disassemble them first
carefully, break free any rust or dirt that may keep the tool
from functioning properly. Clean accumulated rust and dirt off
all metal surfaces with a wire brush. Removed stubborn rust
from small tools with fine steel wool. Using an old toothbrush
with some lightweight lubricating oil is a great way to work
fresh oil into the joints of most garden tools. Not only will this
fresh oil helps your tool to work as it was intended, but it will
also prevent the formation of rust. Use medium-grit sandpaper
to remove rust on larger tools such as shovels, spades and hoes.
Farm Implements
 Farm Implements
- These are accessories which are being pulled by
working animals or mounted to machineries ( hand
tractor, tractor ), which are usually used in the
preparation of wide land. These are usually made of
special kind metal.
a large farming
implement with one or
more blades fixed in a
frame, drawn by a tractor
or by animals and used
for cutting furrows in the
soil and turning it over,
especially to prepare for
the planting of seeds.
 Equipment
- They are used in land preparation and transporting farm
inputs and products. This equipment needs a highly
skilled operator to use. The following are examples of
farm equipment.
Farm tools, implements, and equipment
play very important role in agricultural crop
operations. Their availability makes the work
much easier and faster.
Routine check –up for tools and equipment

For productive, cost- efficient and effective farm facilities, The

following are activities you can immediately implement:
1. Schedule a regular clean up at least twice a year –
this is also the time to undertake a general inspection on machines
and equipment. The activities include removing all cobwebs,
thorough scrubbing of the ceiling, walls and floors and cleaning of
machines. Segregate inserviceable tools, implements and
equipment that are beyond repair from those that can be repaired.
2. Schedule clean-up twice a month – including wiping lighting fixtures
and windows, scrubbing of rest rooms, cleaning and oiling of metal
parts of farm tools and placing lubricants to the moving parts of the
machines. Repair defective tools, implements and equipment as soon as
possible.
3. For regular clean-up chores, give workers about 5 minutes daily to
tidy work station, farm implements, machine and equipment they used
before they go home. This motivates the next workers ( if they operate
in shift) to start work immediately. Besides, this is a subtle way of
developing in them the house keeping routine.
4. Cultivate the habit of collecting waste even before it touches
the floor. Provide a sack or bag in one or two corners of the
workplace where you can throw your garbage. At the end of the
day your workers can just put their waste in the designated places
for disposal at the scheduled day and time.
- Farmers and agricultural workers must aware of the
hazards associated with farm equipment. By using safety
procedure, workers can prevent injury. It has been
mentioned earlier, that tools, implement and equipment
facilitate work conveniently but then a user must bear in
mind that knowledge of the use of these tools leads to a
safe and successful endeavor.
Equipment failure causes some farm accidents; however, most
farm accidents are caused by tired, stressed, rushed, distracted or
incompetent operators.

Before using any tools, implements and equipment, always check

wether or not they are still usable or serviceable. Always check or
refer to the Manual of Operations as prescribed by the
Manufacturer for the other tools and equipment that are new to
you. Always ask the assistance of skilled operator whenever
necessary.
General Equipment safety
Keeping equipment in good working condition is half the
formula for being safe. The other half is the ability and
awareness of the person operating the equipment.

Safety = Good Equipment + Able and aware

Operator
Manual Handling Procedure and
Technique
 How to handle and lift loads

The following guidance illustrates how to

perform a basic lift safely, using both hands,
lifting a load in front of and close to your body,
without twisting. These principles can be
adapted to suit the actual task.
Think before handling/lifting. Plan the lift/handling activity. Where is the
load going to be placed? Use suitable handling aids where possible. Will you
need help with the load? Remove obstructions, like discarded wrapping
materials. For long lifts, for example from floor to shoulder height, think
about resting the load mid-way on a table or bench to change grip.
Keep the load close to your waist for as long as possible while lifting. Keep
the heaviest side of the load next to your body. If you can't get close to the
load, try to slide it towards your body before you try to lift it.
Adopt a stable position. Your feet should be apart with one leg in front of
the other (alongside the load if it is on the ground) to increase stability. You
should be prepared to move your feet during the lift to keep a stable
posture. Wearing overtight clothing or unsuitable footwear may make this
difficult.
Ensure a good hold on the load. Where possible, hug the load as close as
possible to your body. This may be better than gripping it tightly with just your
hands.
Slight bending of your back, hips and knees at the start of the lift is preferable
to either fully flexing your back (stooping) or fully flexing your hips and knees
(full/deep squatting).
Don't flex your back any further while lifting. This can happen if your legs
begin to straighten before you start to raise the load.
Avoid twisting your back or leaning sideways especially while your back is
bent. Keep your shoulders level and facing in the same direction as your hips.
Turning by moving your feet is better than twisting and lifting at the same
time.
Keep your head up when handling. Look ahead not down at the load once it
is held securely.
• Move smoothly. Do not jerk or snatch the load as this can make it harder
to keep control and can increase the risk of injury.
• Don't lift or handle more than you can easily manage. There is a
difference between what people are able to lift and what they can safely
lift. If in doubt, seek advice or get help.
• Put down, then adjust. If you need to precisely position the load, put it
down first, then slide it into the desired position.
 Manual handling
1. Strains and sprains.
2. Neck and back injuries.
3. Slips, falls and crush incidents.
4. Cuts, bruises and broken bones.
5. Hernia.
6. Occupational overuse syndrome (OOS)
Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE)
 Importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in
doing nursery work

PPE
 is equipment that protects workers against health or safety
risks on the job and reduces employee exposure to hazards.
The dangers can be anything from slippery wet floors to loose
falling debris.
 According to the hierarchy of controls by the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), PPE
is recommended to be the last level of defense to prevent
occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities, but some businesses
combined it with other control measures to ensure a safe and
healthy environment for their workers. Here are some benefits of
using PPEs:
• prevent unnecessary injury in the workplace;
• protect employees from excessive chemical exposure;
• prevent the spread of germs and infectious diseases including
COVID-19;
• help businesses comply with regulatory requirements; and
• improve employee productivity and efficiency.
OHS and Its Control
 What is a hazard risk and control?
• A hazard is something that can cause harm,
e.g. electricity, chemicals, working up a ladder,
noise, a keyboard, a bully at work, stress, etc.
A risk is the chance, high or low, that any
hazard will actually cause somebody harm. ...
The risk of personal danger may be high.
Electric cabling is a hazard.
 How to identify hazards
To be sure that all hazards are found:
 Look at all aspects of the work and include
non-routine activities such as maintenance,
repair, or cleaning.
 Look at the physical work environment,
equipment, materials, products, etc. ...
 Include how the tasks are done.
 Look at injury and incident records.
Importance of having a routinely maintenance
in workplace

- it reduces the number of unexpected equipment

failures. it keeps assets in good operating condition. it
helps you to better estimate your spare parts inventory needs.
it is a type of maintenance work that can be standardized and
optimized.
Main purpose of OHS

- Is to foster a safe and healthy occupational environment. OHS

also protects all the general public who may affected by the
occupational environment.
OHS hazards may include:
1. Solar radiation
2. noise
3. air- and soil borne microorganisms
4. chemicals and hazardous substances
5. sharp and hand tools and equipment
6. manual handling
7. holes
8. slippery and
9. uneven surface
10. potential dangers from handling potting media, fertilizers,
watering system, spiders and insect bites
OHS and routine maintenance of work place

Typical examples of routine maintenance

include:

1. Lubricating, cleaning, or adjusting machinery.

2. Inspecting equipment to ensure proper
operation and safety.
3. Replacing parts that show deterioration.
4. Checking, testing, and maintaining safety
equipment, such as safety barriers, fire
extinguishers, or alarm systems.
 Cleaning the work area after working

Preventing Injuries—Slips, trips and falls are a leading

cause of accidents. To prevent these accidents, it's
important to clean up spills and dust as soon as
possible. Keep walkways and work areas clear of tools,
clutter, supplies and potential hazards such as cords and
hoses to prevent tripping.
Here are some ways you can work to stay safe
on the job
 Be aware
 Maintain correct posture
 take break regularly
 use equipment properly
 locate emergency exits
 report safety concerns
 practice effective house keeping
 The responsibilities of the employer

• Provide and maintain safe systems of work.

• Provide adequate health and safety induction and
training.
• Maintain safe work equipment.
• Ensure safe operation of working equipment.
• Ensure adequate welfare provisions are made.
• Provide a safe place of work.
Common Agronomic Crop Work
 Agriculture & Agricultural Practices

 Soil preparation. Before raising a crop, the soil

in which it is to be grown is prepared by
ploughing, levelling, and manuring. ...
 Sowing. Selection of seeds of good quality crop
strains is the primary stage of sowing. ...
 Manuring. ...
 Irrigation. ...
 Weeding. ...
 Harvesting. ...
 Storage.
 Safe work practices in agronomic
operations

 Keep these tips in mind to avoid accidents when operating

equipment and machinery on your farm.
• Read and comply with the manual. ...
• Follow and keep up with federal and state laws. ...
• Always keep your slow-moving-emblem (SMV) clean,
visible and properly mounted. ...
• Dress appropriately. ...
• Ensure you're well rested. ...
• Avoid alcohol.
Cropping Practices
A cropping system
 is defined as the cropping pattern and its
management to derive benefits from a given
resource base under a specific environmental
condition. ... These include, crop area, crop
biomass, economic yield, crop rotation, crop
calendar, time and spread of sowing and harvest.
 Types of cropping system

1. Mono cropping
2. Crop Rotation
3. Sequential Cropping
4. Inter Cropping
5. Relay Cropping
6.Fallows systems/shifting cultivation
7.Strip cropping
8.Multiple cropping
9.Contour strip cropping
10.Cover cropping
11. Alley cropping
1. cover cropping – pagtatanim ng mga halamang gumagapang at mabilis
dumami upang magsilbing takip ng lupa.
2. strip cropping – pagtatanim ng mga halamang pangkain at mga
halamang nangangalaga ng lupa.
3. Multiple cropping – sabay-sabay na pagtatanim ng iba’t –ibang halaman
sa iisang lupa o lugar.
4. sequential cropping –
*dalawa o higit pang halaman ang
magkasunod na itinanim.
*Isang halaman lamang bawat panahon ang pinagtuunan
ng pansin ng magsasaka. Hal. Mais/monggo
5. Alley cropping – isang paraan ng pagtatanim sa dahilig na lupain
kung saan ang mga pananim ay itinatanim sa
pagitang ng dalawang”hedgerows”. Ang
hedgerows ay kadalasang tinatamnan ng puno o
pulumpong(shrubs) gaya ng kakawate, ipil-
ipil,katuray ay kadyos.
6. Crop Rotation – ay ang pagtatanim ng iba – ibang halaman sa
iba’t – ibang panahon sa iisang lupa.
7. Inter cropping – *dalawa o higit pang halaman ang sabay na
itinanim sa iisang lupa.
*pagtatanim sa pagitan ng mga hanay
Hal. Mais + munggo
8. Mono cropping - is the agricultural practice of growing a single crop
year after year on the same land, in the absence of
rotation through other.
9.Contour strip cropping - is a farming practice designed to minimize
soil erosion. ... Fields are arranged in alternating strips
of an erodible cropping practice such as corn or
soybeans with a soil conserving practice such as hay.
10.Shifting cultivation is a form of agriculture which involves clearing of a
plot of land by cutting of trees and burning them. The ashes
are then mixed with the soil and crops are grown. After the
land has lost its fertility, it is abandoned. The farmers then
move to a new place.
11. Relay Cropping – One of his techniques to maximize his harvest from his
farm is relay cropping. This is done by planting a new crop
in a field with standing crop so that when the first crop has
been harvested, the intercropped variety will take its turn
to be productive.
Relay cropping Inter cropping
Contour cropping Mono cropping
Shifting cultivation
Alley cropping Crop Rotation
Cover cropping Strip cropping
contour Strip
Land Preparation
 Land Preparation
 It is the process of preparing the soil for planting.

 to provide a favorable soil environment for the germination

and growth of a particular crop. It is done in accordance with
the requirements of the crops, whether they grow under the
dryland or wetland systems.
Land preparation typically involves plowing,
harrowing, and leveling the field to make it
suitable for crop establishment, land
preparation releases nutrients to the soil,
destroying /reducing weeds and ants nest, it
also improves the soil and plant contact and
reduces the incidence of pests and diseases
infestation.
 Important Factors in Land Preparation

1. Climatic factors – climatic condition

2. soil condition – pH, kinds of soil
3. farm tools and equipment
4. availability of labor
5. money financial
 Steps in Land Preparation
1. selection of site
2. soil testing (optional)
3. clearing the area(paglimpyo)
4. plowing(pagdaro)
5. harrowing(pakaras)
6. Furrowing (pagtudling)
 Basic Land Preparation Activities for direct
seeded vegetables
1. Clearing the area
2. lay outing
3. Pulverizing
4. Sticking
5. making canals
6. mulching
 Materials/equipment needed for land preparation:

It depends the area:

 Equipment (Large area) – plow, harrow

 materials – seeds/seedling, fertilizer
 Seeding
In agriculture, gardening, and forestry, broadcast
seeding is a method of seeding that involves
scattering seed, by hand or mechanically, over a
relatively large area.
 Plan for seeding includes a look at:
1. the condition of the seedbed
2. soil moisture
3. the expected germination percentage
4. the mixture of species if a mixture is used
5. the method of seeding.
 Methods of Seeding
There are many methods for putting seed into the
ground. Some require specific requirements to be
successful. Others are reliable in a wide range of
conditions. Many seeding methods rely on removal of
existing plant growth, done by tilling (plowing) or by
applying herbicides. Tillage also turns under many of
the weed seeds near the surface and brings up other
materials that are desirable such as lime and
minerals. Tillage will cause some soil moisture loss
from evaporation and leave the soil less anchored,
which may lead to erosion.
 Allowing some top refuse like clippings, twigs, and
mulch has been found to be beneficial for emerging
seedlings. Tillage will also bring new weed seeds to the
surface, and that should be expected in the overall plan.
Since tillage has some drawbacks and requires
machinery, time, and expense, some forage producers
use no-till establishment. Existing plants are killed with
herbicides and seeding can still be done in a variety of
ways. Young plants sown with no-till practices may
require more care in terms of fertility, pH, and water.
 The Main Types of Seeding Methods

 broadcast,
 grain drill with grass seed attachment,
 corrugated roller,
 band seeder which adds fertilizer below and to the side
of the seed,
 no till,
 and aerial.
 Different methods of sowing

1. Broadcasting
2. Dibbling
3. Drilling
4. Seed dropping behind the plough
5. Transplanting
6. Hill dropping
7. Check row planting.
Drilling is the best method for sowing of
seeds because:
 A seed drill sows the seeds uniformly at proper distances
and depths.
 It ensures that seeds get covered by the soil after
sowing, thereby preventing damage caused by birds.
 Sowing by using a seed drill saves time and labor.
 Methods of Planting seeds

1. Transplanting
2. direct planting
3. indirect planting
4. manual mechanized planting.
 Need to prepare for planting
 land preparation
 seeds
 seedling
 Direct sowing
 Sowing in seed beds
 Sowing in seed box
 Sowing in trays
 Soak seeds in clean water

 Wash seeds with clean water

 Air dry the seeds

 Sow the seeds
 Maintain soil moisture

 Fill up holes with soil

 Check missing hills

 Thin to one healthy plant

Sowing in seed beds
Sowing in seed box:
 Fill up clean tray with medium.
 Water the tray.
 Put one seed per hole.
 Cover lightly with soil.
 Place tray in a secured area.
Advantages:
1. Uniform crop stand.
2. Few missing hills.
3. Lesser seed use.
4. Easier management.
5. Secured seedlings.
 Water regularly
Fertilize
Protect
Prevent stem elongation
Spray when needed
Cover with nets
Crop Maintenance

What is crop maintenance?

 Maintenance of crop health is essential for successful
farming for both yield and quality of produce. This requires
long-term strategies for the minimization of pest and disease
occurrence preferably by enhancing natural control
mechanisms, growing a “healthy crop”.
 Crop Management
Crop maintenance practices important for proper crop
growth include:
1. Weeding
2. Soil cultivation
3. Irrigation
 Six Tips for Effective Weed Control
1. Let sleeping weeds lie. Kill weeds at their roots but
leave the soil—and dormant weed seeds—largely
undisturbed. ...
2. Mulch, mulch, mulch. ...
3. Weed when the weeding's good. ...
4. Lop off their heads. ...
5. Mind the gaps between plants. ...
6. Water the plants you want, not the weeds you've got.
 The 5 general categories of weed control are:
1. Preventative Weed Control.
2. Cultural Weed Control.
3. Mechanical Weed Control.
4. Biological Weed Control.
5. Chemical Weed Control.
Biological weed control involves using living organisms, such
as insects, nematodes, bacteria, or fungi, to reduce weed
populations. In nature, plants are controlled biologically by
naturally occurring organisms.

Qualities of bio-agent:
 The bio-agent must feed or affect only one host and not other
useful plants.
 It must be free of predators or parasites.
 It must readily adapt to environment conditions.
 The bio-agent must be capable of seeking out itself to the host.
Herbicides

The use or application of chemicals (herbicide) to weeds or soil to

control weed growth is called chemical weed control. Herbicides are
considered the most effective and time-efficient method of weed
control. Some herbicides are formulated so as not to cause harm to
the surrounding plants of the weed.

Glyphosate is a systemic nonselective herbicide, and it controls most

annual and perennial weeds. To be effective, it should be applied when
weeds are growing actively so that the herbicide is absorbed and
translocated into the entire plant system.
 Fertilization
Crop Nutrition – is very important contributing factor
to increase production nutrient
should be present in proportionately
balanced condition, and if any one
elements is lacking, it should be made
available in the soil.
 Fertilizer Application Methods
1. Broadcast – application of fertilizer be done at final
harrowing, done either by hand or with the use of a “cyclone
spreader.”
2. Band application – fertilizer is applied in a strip 2-3 cm
beneath and to the side of the location of the seed during
seeding.
3. Localized placement – placement of fertilizer-centered
mudballs in flooded soils wherein one mudball (urea) is
plunced 10-12 cm deep for every 4 rice placed spaced at 20
x 30 cm which are applied immediately after transplanting.
4. Foliar Application – involves dissolving the fertilizer
material in water and applying it as a spray to plants which
is effecting in correcting trace element deficiency at critical
stages of the crop.
5. Side dressing and top dressing –
Side dressing – placement of fertilizer along the rows
near the base of the plant.
Top dressing – N fertilizer are applied to juvenile crops
wherein fertilizer is broadcast over the
growing plants.
Basal application ( inorganic)
- complete fertilizer 14-14-14

Side dress application

- Urea 46-0-0 at the base of the plant

Pest/insect and diseases control

Pest – pesticides
Weeds – herbicides
Insects – insecticides
Bacteria – bacteriacides
Fungus – fungicides
Pest/Insect and Diseases Control
 Ang iba’t – ibang uri ng peste at sakit ng
halaman ay ang mga sumusunod:
Peste/ sakit Halimbawa Kemikal na kontrol

Peste/ Insekto Uod, uwang, aphids, Insecticide

borers, bugs,
ngusong kabayo,
grubs, anay,
maggots, bukbok
Hanip ( Termites ) Red Spider Mites Acaricide
Mollusca Kuhol Molluscide
Rodents Daga Rodenticide
Vertebrates Ibon Avicide
Sakit Halimbawa Kemikal na Kontrol

Fungi Leaf blight, damping off Fungicide

Bacteria Bacterial leaf streak, Bactericide

bacterial wilt, soft rot

Nematodes Root knot nematode Nematicide

Virus Rice Tungro virus, Insecticide

Mosaic virus, banana ( upang makontrol ang
top virus insektong tagapagdala
ng sakit )
Weeds Gabing Uwak Herbicide
 Other sources of Nutrients

1. Organic fertilizer – (compost) 1-7%Nitrogen, 2-13%

Posphorous, and 1-10% Potash from plant and animal
sources.
2. Green manure – biomass produced by a N- fixing legume
crop, plowed under the ear flowering time to serve as a
source of nutrient to the succeeding crop.
3. Azolla – water fern that grows symbiotically with blue-
green algae; can produce 30T/ha in one(1) growing season
equivalent to 150 kg.N/ha.
4. Liming – application of lime to correct soil acidity; Ideal
pH range it from 6.0 – 6.5
Maintenance of sheds and other
workplaces
 safety procedures do you put in place when
conducting routine maintenance
You must
 Clean and tidy my working area properly when I have
finished.
 Collect my tools and put them away.
 Always keep my work place clean to avoid trips and falls.
 Clean and tidy my working area as well as I can when an
alarm sounds.
Loading and Unloading
Loading and Unloading

Loading and unloading means the services of loading or

unloading cargo between any place or point of rest on a wharf
or terminal, and railcars, trucks, or any other means of land
transportation and barges.

The 'Loading and Unloading' course will

provide you with the skills and knowledge
to safely prepare, lift, position and restrain
goods on a vehicle platform and then
unload goods at the destination.
 Some of the most common workplace injuries related
to vehicle loading and unloading include:
1. Sprains and strains from improper lifting or handling of cargo
2. Crushing injuries caused by colliding with a forklift, truck,
falls from loading docks, or falling stacked materials
3. Bruises and cuts
4. Spinal injuries from improper loading, unloading, falls or
being crushed
5. Head trauma from falling cargo
Safe Vehicle Loading & Unloading Checklist
#1 Ensure vehicle is stopped, braked, and stabilized before
loading/unloading
#2 Loading areas should be well lit at all times
#3 Loading areas should be free from hazards
4 Loading area should be free of traffic
5 Ensure loads are secured and arranged properly before
transport

#6 Teach Employees Proper Technique

 Safe Lifting Refresher
Think

1. What is the size/shape of the item?

2. How much does it weigh?
3. Will you need help lifting?
4. Should you utilize a lifting device?
5. Is there a clear pathway to travel in
 Know your surroundings when moving objects
 Decide where items will be placed before lifting
 Listen to your body, especially while moving
Prepare

 Maintain a wide base of support

 Prepare your trunk muscles
 Maintain consistent breathing
 Awkward motions can cause multiple injuries
 Shortcuts can lead to mistakes and wasted time
Act

1. Maintain a neutral back

2. Keep the load close
3. Turn the whole body, not the trunk
4. Avoid lifting over head
5. Bend your hips/knees if possible
6. Take recommended rest breaks
7. Focus on related assignments
8. Limit unrelated multi-tasking
Harvesting
Harvesting – the separation of the economic yield (wether the
whole plant biomass or the portion of the whole
plant biomass when crops have reached highest or optimum
level of productivity ( physiological maturity onward).
include:
1. Reaping - cutting the mature panicles and straw above ground.
2. Threshing - separating the paddy grain from the rest of cut crop.
3. Cleaning - removing immature, unfilled, non-grain materials.
4. Hauling - moving the cut crop to the threshing location.
Tawas – use to maintain the freshness of
vegetables
Chlorine – use to remove the latex of the
vegetables
Different harvesting methods
Postharvest handling
 refers to the movement of farm products or operations
through which commodities undergo from harvest to
possession by the final consumer.

Harvesting – packing house (sorting/grading, cleaning, or

primary processing, packaging, etc. – transport – storage
– marketing - consumer
Post production technology
 practices and operations from harvesting to consumption; aim

is to deliver good quality products.

Primary Processing
 original plant part can still be recognized

Secondary Processing
 conversion of produce into more stable forms that can no

longer be changed into other forms.

 Types of Secondary Processing

1. Heat sterilization – canning

2. Dehydration – dried fruits and vegetables
3. Fermentation – pickling, wine making, vinegar making
4. Freezing – frozen fruits and vegetables
 Postharvest handling

Types of crops based on postharvest characteristics:

 Durables – low moisture content ( less than or equal

to 14%); corn, rice, mung bean
 Perishables – high moisture content (80-95%; fruits,
vegetables, ornamental
 Kinds of Packages
 Flexible – burlap or gunny sacks, mesh or net bags,
PEBs, palm leaves, sacks of woven plastic fabric
 Rigid and semi- rigid – bamboo and rattan baskets,

wooden crates, cartoons, wood-paper laminated

container, plastic crates, foamed plastic boxes.
Shelf-life of perishables can be prolonged by:

1. cold storage
2. Evaporative cooling – perishables give off heat during
respiration and when a source of heat is within the vicinity, heat
given off is used in evaporating water resulting in a drop in
temperature and increase in relative humidity.
3. Modified atmospheric storage – respiration of the produce
modifies the atmosphere; uses any of low density polyethelene
(LDPE) polypropylene (PP),waxes, temperature-compensating
packages, and vacuum or hypobaric packaging.
4. Controlled atmosphere storage – the supply and level of
carbon dioxide and oxygen are manipulated through gas
generators and appropriate control devices in properly designed
storage structures.
 Maturity Indices

 sign or indications of the readiness of the plant for

harvest; used to determine maturity and predict
harvest date, used to assess quality of crop; ensure
sensory quality (flavor, color, aroma, texture) and
nutritional quality; ensure an adequate postharvest
shelf life; facilitate scheduling of harvest and packing
operations.
 Age-Related/Phenological
Number of days from planting to maturity
 Days from flower induction (mango)
 Days from anthesis (durian, beans)
 Days from shooting (appearance of false hands in

banana
 Heat unit/growing degree days (GDD)
 Morphological

 change in peel color (pineapple, lanzones, tomato)

 change in pulp color (mango, tomato)
 Drying of plant part ( banana, onion, ginger, potato)
 Flattening of eyes – (pineapple)
 Development of abscission zone ( melon, durian)
 Greater prominence of netting (melon)
 Appearance of bloom (mango, grapes)
 Increase in size (eggplant, cucumber)
 Fullness of pods – (cow pea, peas, snap beans)
 Change in shape (banana, mango)
 Compactness of curd/bud ( cauliflower, broccoli)
 Bud opening (Roses)
 Bad opening change in angularity of fingers
 Appearance of corky spots (banana)
 Development of waxy layer on the epidermis ( plum, grape,
melon)
 Formation of Gel-like material surrounding the seeds
( tomato)
 Prior to tip opening ( asparagus)
 6 Tips To Avoid Postharvest
Losses

1.Assess Maturity. ...

2.Check Your Water Quality. ...
3.Check Your Water Temperature. ...
4.Avoid Injury. ...
5.Keep Your Produce Cool. ...
6.Proper Storage.
 Baling

What is baling?
Baling

 is a process that compresses material into a

block (bale) which is secured by plastic or wire
strapping. The process reduces the volume of the
material which: Reduces loose waste on site.
Reduces transportation/waste disposal costs.
Turns waste into a revenue generating product.

 process of converting windrows of crop into bales

necessitates picking up crop, compacting and
wrapping it inside the bale chamber, and ejecting
the completed bale.
What is Raking?
Raking
 The act or process of using a rake; the going over
a space with a rake. Raking noun. A space gone
over with a rake; also, the work done, or the
quantity of hay, grain, etc., collected, by going
once over a space with a rake.
What is Sorting?
Sorting
 the process of classifying of commodity into groups,
designated by the person classifying the produce either
according to a set or whatever criteria he may desire.
Sorting
 is normally considered a process for separating
foods into categories on the basis of a single
physical property, such as size, shape, weight or
color. Grading, on the other hand, is a separation
with a number of factors to be taken into account to
accomplish it.
Sorting
 is done by hand to remove the fruits and
vegetables which are unsuitable to market or
storage due to damage by mechanical injuries,
insects, diseases, immature, over-mature,
misshapen etc. This is usually carried out manually
and done before washing.
Sorting and grading is the main activity in the
business post-harvest handling of agricultural
products, both in the fresh state or in another state.
Packaging

 is the act of wrapping or enclosing

agricultural products in a suitable
material that will protect them when they
are being transported from farms to
markets and displayed in shops for people
to buy.
Packing

 the act or process of putting things into

bags or boxes. : material that is used to hold
or protect things so that they can be moved
or sent somewhere.
How do you pack vegetables?

 Cardboard, wooden, or plastic boxes or crates;

a widely accepted way of packing various fruit and
vegetables. The boxes come in various shapes
and sizes and are adaptable to different products.
Transporting Technique
 transportation is the movement of agricultural
commodities from where they are produced to
various consumption centres. It plays an
important role in market development, expansion
and competition.
 Materials and equipment needed for packing before
shipment:
 laton
 sako
 cartoon
 bukag with padding and lining
 How to Transport Fresh Produce

1.Hydro-cool produce in a sink filled with cold

water, or spray sturdy vegetables with cool
running water. ...
2.Pack produce into sturdy, opaque,
breathable containers. ...
3.Keep all produce well shaded during
transport.
Semi trucks, rail cars, and barges can all
help transport agricultural goods to their
destinations. Next time you are out, look for
someone transporting agricultural goods.
In short, transport enables agriculture and
emboldens the farmer to invest more and
increase production. And without this
transport system, large quantities of
painstakingly farmed produce would be laid to
waste. ... His produce also needs to reach the
consumer at a reasonable price and within a
reasonable time.
Planting
Planting definition
is an area where plants are grown for commercial
or decorative purposes; also : the plants grown in
such an area.
Methods of Planting Crops

Various methods of planting are practiced in crop

farming. These can be put under broad classifications
such as direct seeding vs. transplanting, direct planting
vs. indirect planting, and manual vs. mechanized
planting.
 7 methods of planting include:
1. seed propagation,
2. cutting,
3. layering,
4. division,
5. grafting,
6. budding,
7. tissue culture technique
Methods of Planting Seeds
(Seed Propagation)
 Grow seedlings first
 Solanaceous 3-4 weeks
 Cucurbits 10-12 days
 Late in the afternoon
 Water seedlings
 Push out seedlings lightly

 Fill up plant holes

Polyethylene bag – use for big seedling
Poly bag – use for small seedling
Planting Asexual Methods
(vegetative)
Tissue cultured
Other ways of planting
 Care and maintenance
1. Watering
2. weeding

3. fertilization –applying fertilizer

1. basal
2. side dress
3. top dress
4. foliar
 Type of Fertilizer

1. Urea Fertilizer(46-0-0)
– its nitrogen rich fertilizer for healthy green leaf
growth of garden plants and for greening lawns.
2. Ammonium Phosphate ( 16 -20-0)
– an essential nutrient the promoted
blooming and fruiting of plant.
3. Complete Fertilizer (14-14-14)
– complete granular fertilizer for feeding garden plants plant
ideal blend for balance foliage growth flower and fruiting.
 Type of soil

1. Sandy – balas – balason nga yuta – it is good for planting vegetables like
ampalaya, carrot, kalabasa , sitaw
2. Loamy sand – tambok nga yuta medyo brownish ang color
3. Loam - tambok nga yuta/daghan wati
4. Clay – pula nga yuta – it is good for planting peanut, kamote , abaka
5. Silt loam – balason nga yuta naa sa kanal –good for planting flowers or
vegetables
6. Sand and Clay – good mixture.
 Type of component mineral of the soil
1. Nitrogen
2. Phosphorous
3. Potassium
4. Calcium
5. Magnesium
6. Sulfur
 Type of Organic Fertilizer

1. Manure – bisag unsa nga tae sa hayop

2. Marine byproduct - isda or any sea animals
3. Meals – bukog2x sa hayop
4. Minerals – dahon2x or uhot
5. Mulch – mga sagbot
6. Vermi compost
 Macro-Nutrients
1. Nitrogen (N)
2. Phosphorous (P)
3. Potassium (K)
Micro – Nutrients – Which plant need only very small quantities.
4. Boron
5. Copper
6. Iron
7. Zinc
 3 Kinds of Weed
1. Grass – sagbot
2. Seedges – plants nga motubo sa tubig
3. broad leaf
 Land Preparation
1. Selection of the site
2. Raking
3. clearing the area
4. plowing
5. harrowing(karas)
6. furrow(tudling)
 Kinds of vegetables
1.Leafy vegetables – ex. Pechay, mustasa,
alugbati,kangkong , camote tops
2. Root vegetable – luy –a, patatas, gabi, lutya,camote
3. Stem vegetables – asparagus, kangkong
4. Fruit vegetable – ampalaya, upo, patola, jackfruit
5. Shoot vegetable – bamboo, rattan,cocnut
6. Stalk vegetables – young plants, celery
7. Seeds vegetables – peas, beans, legumes
Cereals - vegetables of grain crops
Ex. Corn, rice,wheat
Root and tuber crop
Ex. Cassava, gabi, ube, sweet potato
Medicinal Plants
Ex. Lemon grass, oregano, ginger,
 Quality of good seedlings
1. Uniform in growth
2. healthy and sturdy seedlings
3. Free from of type
Farm Inputs
4. Pesticides
5. fertilizer
6. seeds
7. seedlings
8. farm labor
 Site selection for the garden

Good Water Supply

Good Soil Drainage
Soil Fertility
Sunlight Availability
Good Air Circulation
 Field preparation & layout
 Planting distance
 Bed preparation
 Plastic mulching
 Transplanting
 Trellising
 Pruning
 Fertilization
 Irrigation
 Harvesting
Cultural Management

Weed-free
Well-pulverized
Adding Organic
Matter
Raised beds & Good
drainage
Mulching

1. Controls weed growth

2. Controls soil erosion

3. Controls moisture loss

4. Controls water-logging

5. Prevents fruit rotting

Stakes & strings
 Weed-free

Well-pulverized

Stakes & strings

Drainage & irrigation

Important components

Raised beds
Plastic mulch

Good drainage
Advantages:
1. Controls weed growth

2. Controls soil erosion

3. Controls moisture loss

4. Controls water-logging
 Water regularly
Fertilize
Protect
Prevent stem elongation
Spray when needed
Cover with nets
 Planting Distance

Crop Between Between Planting Population Seed req't

furrows hills distance per ha per ha
Tomato 1.5 0.50 0.75 x 0.5 26,666 200 g
Eggplant 1.5 0.75 0.75 x .075 17,778 100 g
Hot pepper 1.5 0.50 0.75 x 0.5 26,666 300 g
Sweet pepper 1.5 0.50 0.75 x 0.5 26,666 300 g
Watermelon 5.0 0.50 2.5 x 0.5 8,000 500 g
Ampalaya 4.0 0.50 2.0 x 0.5 10,000 2000 g
Calabaza 4.0 2.00 2.0 x 2.0 2,500 500 g
Cucumber 1.5 0.50 0.75 x 0.5 13,333 300 g
 Why do we have to trellis?

1. Support the
plants from
winds and
typhoons.

2. Support the
fruits from
touching
the ground.
 Why do we have to prune?

How are we going to do it?

What are the crops that needs pruning?

 Soil analysis
 General recommendation
 Fertilizers available
Recommended fertilizers:

 chicken dung
 complete(14-14-14- or 16-16-16)
 calcium nitrate(Ca=19%,N=14.5%)
 urea (46-0-0)
 solophos (0-18-0)
 borax (B O=36.5%, B=11.3%)
 ferrous sulfate (Fe=22.93%, S=13.44%)
 zinc sulfate (Zn=20%)
 muriate of potash (0-0-60)
 ammonium phosphate (16-20-0)
Organic fertilizers
 Cucurbits are quite sensitive
to water stress.

 Always drain the canals when

heavy rain pours.

Irrigate when necessary.

 For ampalaya, do not wait longer

than 5-6 days.

For tomato, do not wait longer

than 5-6 days.
Covering the newly transplanted plants
 Watermelon 65-70 DAT
 Muskmelon 50-65 DAT
 Calabaza 70-80 DAT
 Patola 45-55 DAT
 Upo 45-55 DAT
 Ampalaya 45-50 DAT
 Cucumber 30-40 DAT
Environmental Aspects of Agronomic Crop
Work
End!!!!!