Preliminary Abstract
In an era demanding for sustainable solutions for agriculture, the pursuance in finding an imperative sustainable practice has propelled the different areas of agriculture taking into the cornerstone of modern methodologies for farming in the Philippines. This study focuses on producing organic fertilizer from Balakat leaf litter, investigating the possibility of improving the bioconversion process and assessing its environmental impact. The aim of the study is to evaluate the performance of balakat leaves as a fertilizer while advocating sustainable agricultural practices by promoting the defoliation of balakat leaves as an organic fertilizer. A thorough analysis of physical and visual factors was carried out, including pure powder from balakat leaves, balakat powder containing carabao manure, balakat powder containing carabao manure and other organic materials. Physical and visual analyses yield positive results in all treatments, demonstrating high-quality organic fertilizer. The application of balakat fertilizer to tomato plants results in faster development than the control group, indicating its potential as an effective fertilizer. However, additional chemical testing is required for accurate nutrient assessment. The study suggests a promising option for developing and applying organic fertilizers generated from balakat leaves. These findings help to promote sustainable agriculture practices and environmental awareness, paving the path for future research and refinement.
Liwanag, A. J., Abuan, J. C. G., Casama, I. S. N., Jose, K. M., Julian, B. K. M. B., Kelley, M. C. G., Kelley, M. C. G., Lavarias, A. D., Rizzo, J., & Viloria, M. S. A. (2023). Sustainable Agriculture: Bioconversion of Balakat Leaf Litter into an Organic Fertilizer. [Unpublished project repor] Institute of Arts and Sciences, Mabalacat City College, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, Philippines.
