Coconut Vegetable Cropping Model

8/10/2019 Coconut Vegetable Cropping Model

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2. ADVANTAGES AND BENEFITS

Depending on the age or development stage of coconut, a variety ofvegetable crops are suitable and productive under coconut stands. Under thethree growth stages (1,II, III) from field planting up to 26-60 years old, the

proper vegetable intercrops had been identified as shown in Table 1.Table 1. Growth duration and productivity periods, levels of sunlight transmission

and suitable intercrops (Magat, 2004).

Phase(Stage) Duration Level of available sunlight/ highly suitable intercrops

I Field-planting to6 years

High to Moderate/Highly Suitable Intercrops:Cereals - corn, upland riceLegumes - cowpea, peanut, mungbean, sitao, beansRoot crops - sweet potato, gabiFruit crops - pineapple, citrus, watermelon , papaya, bananaVegetables - tomato, cabbage, eggplant, sweet pepper, hot

pepper, okra

II 7-25 years 1

Moderate to Low/Highly Suitable Crops:Black pepper, cacao, coffee, tomato, vanilla, ginger, lanzones,rambutan, durian, mangosteen, gmelina tree (for wood andlumber)

Figure 2. A farm layout of a coconut-vegetable cropping model undertriangular planting system of coconut with spacing of 8-10 meters.

Coconut-Vegetable Cropping Model 2


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Phase(Stage) Duration Level of available sunlight/ highly suitable intercrops

III 26-60 years High/Highly Suitable Crops 2:Cereals - corn, upland riceLegumes - peanut, mungbean, cowpea, beans

Vegetables - tomato, eggplant, cabbage, sweet pepper, hot pepper, okra, gingerRoot crops - sweet potato, gabi, cassava, ubiBeverage crops - coffee, cacaoFruit crops - lanzones, rambutan, durian, mangosteen, citrus(pomelo, calamansi)Wood and Lumber tree - gmelinaFiber crops - ramie, abaca

1 Except tomato, usually the suitable crops indicated requires lower sunlight or moderate shadeduring the pre-bearing stage of the crops, thus field-establishment best done during this stage.

2 Should more sunlight transmission to intercrops needed for normal growth and high yields,coconut leaf pruning (CLP) technique (removal of older lower leaves of the crown, maintainingthe upper 19-23 leaves); allowing 0.5 meter of cut frond attached to the trunk.

The different vegetable crops can be grouped into several families (East-WestSeed Company Technology Manual), as follows:

1) Solanaceae- tomato, sweet pepper, hot pepper and eggplant2) Cucurbitaceae ampalaya, patola, cucumber, calabaza (squash),

upo, watermelon, muskmelon3) Cruciferae and leafy vegetables cabbage, cauliflower, pechay, radish,

mustaza, kangkong, coriander4) Alliaceae and other crops shallot, onion, carrot, sitao, snapbean,bush

sitao, mungbean,cowpea, okra, sweet corn

Some of the key benefits of the coconut-vegetable cropping/ecosystem are asfollow:

1) Vegetable crops can be intercropped in coconut palms as young as 1-6 yearsold and when these palms reached 25 years (and beyond). Generally,vegetables and coconut do not compete for soil resources, provided they aresupplied with the required fertilizers needed by each crop.

2) Vegetable crops can be planted anytime of the year. There is a stable andcontinuous demand as it is consumed daily in everyones dining table.

3) Its nutritive value and health benefits are well-known. a) Tomato a rich

source of vitamin C; b) watermelon low in calories, high in Vitamin C and A,in the form of disease fighting beta-carotene, high in lycopene(powerfuloxidant), second to tomatoes,lycopene and beta-carotene work in conjunctionwith other plant chemicals not found in vitamin/ mineral supplements( http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/ watermelon.html ) ; c) Ampalaya rich in iron, used in the treatment of skin diseases, sterility, as an antipyretic,purgative, one of the best herbal medicines for its ability to help with liverproblems and HIV(ampalaya.com) ; d) cucumber is rich in Vitamin A, C, iron,Ca, carbohydrates and dietary fiber ( http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/cucumber.html ).

4) Intercropping coconut with different kinds of suitable vegetables intensifies

land use which increases returns on cash inputs and provides better labor-usepattern and income distribution.

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5) From the coconut trees, obtained are many basic food products from nuts

(like kernel/meat, coconut milk, coconut oil, coconut water/juice) and coconutsap (fresh sap, vinegar, coconut nectar/honey and natural sap sugar); non-food raw materials for various high value products (husked- based, shell-based). Many more products are derived from other parts of the coconuttrees.

2. MARKET D EMAND AND P RACTICES

2.1. Tomato ( Lycopersicon esculentum Miller) is a seasonal fruit vegetable grownin almost all parts of the country. Although it ranks second to eggplant in termsof total production area, seasonality of production limits the domestic supply andremains a common problem of the industry ( http://www.hortinet.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/tomato industry_situationer.html ) . A rich source of Vitamin C, tomato ispopular cash crop for small farmer-growers and home gardeners. Recognizing itsvital contribution to the local economy, the DA and the DOST have identifiedtomato, among others, as a priority crop in their respective R&D programs .

Major tomato producing regions are Northern Mindanao and SouthernTagalog. These regions collectively contributed about 60% of the total tomatoproduction. On the other hand, the highest producing provinces in 2002 werePangasinan, Bukidnon, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Nueva Ecija and Laguna.

Local tomato production fluctuated from 1990 to 2002 with the highestproduction volume of 183,962 MT in 1990 ( http://www.hortinet.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/tomato industry_situationer.html ). The low production volumes wereobtained during 1993 at 138,486 MT and 1998 at 132,984 MT. the decline inproduction is mainly attributed to general reduction in yield and in area planted.

Furthermore, strong typhoons hit the top producing areas in Luzon in the earlyand mid-90s causing considerable damage to vegetable plantations includingtomato.

Just like the production volume, area and yield, the countrys annual percapita consumption of tomato also had a fluctuating the 1990-2001. The highestper capita consumption obtained in 1990 at 2.33/yr while the lowest were 1.42kg/yr and in 2001 at 1.46kg/yr. On the average, around 78% of the gross supplyof tomato are utilized as fresh, about 15% as processed and 7% as feed. Lessthan one percent is used as seeds and for export. Utilization of the varioustomato products (fresh, processed, feeds)- same trend fluctuating with adecrease in the years 1993 and 1998.

The regular-client relationship known as the suki system. The type ofmiddlemen involved are assembler-wholesalers, contract-buyers, wholesalerswholesaler-retailers and retailers.

2.2 Eggplant ( Solanum melongena L.) ranked the countrys 7 th among theworlds top eggplant producers in 1999(PCARRD Eggplant Industry Situationer,2000). Eggplant is the countrys top ranking vegetable in terms of productionvalue, about 179,000 tons per year valued at almost P2M and some 20,000 has,almost 1/3 of them in Ilocos Region (http://www.bar.gov.ph). Although it isgrown in almost all parts of the country, its production is primarily for domesticmarket. Recognizing its vital contribution to the local economy, the Dept. ofAgriculture and Science (DA) & Technology (DOST) identified eggplant, amongothers, as a priority crop in their respective R & D program.

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From 1990-99, area planted to eggplant increased from16,425 to 17,797ha, production increased from 112,000 t (1990) to 182,000 t (1999); yield alsoincreased from 6.8 t/ha (1990) to 10.2 t/ha (1999). Of the total productionvolume in 1998, 38 t was used for seed production and 14,412t for feeds andwaste. Per capita consumption in 1998 was 2.27 kg/yr, down by 9.6% from thatof the previous year.

Market assistance is provided by local government units. Credit assistanceis availed thru the Land Bank of the Philippines.

2.3 Ampalaya ( Momordica charantia ) is a vegetable grown throughout thePhilippines. It grows wild in the remote areas of Mt. Banahaw. Known in the westas Chinese bitter melon, ampalaya became popular in the news recently becauseof its putative medicinal value especially HIV/AID-Compound Q(http:/www.tribo.org/vegetable/ampalaya.html)

2.4 Watermelon After years of recording production cutbacks, watermelongrowers posted a 35.4 % expansion in production in 2002. This was followed by

another 17.1 % increase in 2003 ( http://bas.gov.ph/downloads_view ). Of thetotal watermelon production in 2003, about 77% was contributed by the top 5producing provinces in Luzon wherein Pangasinan contributed the biggest shareof 36%.

3. GROWING CONDITIONS AND THE TECHNOLOGY

3.2 Environmental Requirements

To optimize the achievable yield of vegetables under the coconut-vegetable cropping system, it is essential to provide the suitable conditions

(climate and soils) for the two crops. Moreover, the competition for light, soil andwater resources usually results in marginal economic returns from one of thecomponent crops or in both.

A. Coconut

Climatic Needs:

Factor Coconut

Altitude (m above sea level Less than 600

Temperature ( oC) 24- 29

Light >2000 sunshine hours/year

Total annual rainfall (mm) 1500- 2500 (well distributed)

Typhoon frequency (%) < 20

Soil Requirements:Soil Condition Coconut

Soil Depth (cm) >75

Drainage Moderate to well-drainedSoil Acidity (pH) 5.5-7.5

Soil Texture Sandy, loamy, clayey (with good structure)

Organic matter content Medium to HighMajor nutrients N, K, Cl, S, P, Ca, Mg, B

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B. Vegetables

B.1 Tomato requires a relatively cool, dry climate fro high yield and premiumquality and is adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions( http://www.hortinet. pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/tomatoindustry_situationer.html .The optimum temperature requirement is 21-24 0 C. It can be grown invaried soil types as sandy loam to clay-loam with rich organic matter. Itshould not be planted in areas with long period of flooding. The ideal pH is6.0-6.5. It can be harvest in 90-100 days after transplanting during the coolseason and 60-90 days after transplanting during hot season.

B.2 Eggplant requires a relatively cool, dry climate for optimum yield andquality, grown year-round ((PCARRD Eggplant Industry Situationer, 2000).In the lowlands of Batangas, eggplant is planted in November and harvestedfrom Feb. to March, in Cebu planting season starts in April, while harvestingseason starts from June to August.

B.3 Ampalaya grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. It grows well in

all types of soil provided it is well drained. The best type of soil texture is asandy loam, rich in organic matter. The optimum soil temperature forgermination is 30-35 0 C (Ampalaya pamphlet, Allied Botanical Corp.).

B.4 Sweet pepper ( Capsicum annuum L.) requires cool weather for bestquality, in low elevations, however, planting is best from October toDecember ( http://www.da.gov.ph/tips/sweet pepper.html) It mid and highelevations it can be grown throughout the year. It grows well in any type ofsoil with pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Production is best in deep loam soil with goodfertility, easy irrigation, adequate drainage and plenty of sunshine. Itgerminates well at temperature of20-30 0 C and grows best at around 25 0C. It should not be grown on the

same soil year after year because of disease problems. It is best to rotatethe crop with rice, legume, sugarcane and corn.

B.5 Cucumber is a tender, warm season vegetable that produces well whengiven proper care and protection. Having shallow roots, it requires amplesoil moisture at all stages of growth.

B.6 Watermelon requires warm, relatively dry climate and plenty of sunshinefro rapid growth and development. It performs well when grown in welldrained and sandy loam soil preferably rich in organic matter, although yieldon clay soils can be increased significantly by mulching raised planting rowswith black plastic film. Ideal soil should have ph of 6-7 (WatermelonPamphlet, Allied Botanical Corporation).

4.2 Technology

It is very important to apply the best package of technologies (POT) orbetter still, the site-specific technologies to achieve the maximum economic yield(MEY), highly desirable to obtain the least production cost per unit product or perha, and the maximum returns to investment under the coconut-vegetablecropping production system.

4.2.1 Vegetables

1) Land preparation Clear/underbrush interspaces under coconut trees andremove all stumps, plow and harrow twice or thrice to remove weeds.

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4.2.1.1 Solanaceous crops (Tomato, Eggplant, Sweet Pepper)

1) Nursery preparation prepare seedbeds measuring 1 m x 5 m, sterilized soilby any of the following methods: a)burn straw over the seedbed b) pourboiling water into the seedbed c) bake soil and place in seed boxes d) drill theseeds and cover lightly with soil d) water daily during dry period until readyfor transplanting (PCA Intercropping Guide).

2) Plot preparation prepare furrows 75 cm apart, 2.0 meters from the coconuttrees

3) Transplanting water the seedbed thoroughly to loosen the soil, pull carefullythe seedlings to avoid injury, transplant seedlings in prepared furrows,preferably in the afternoon.

4) Distance of planting tomato -0.75 m between hills, straight plantingeggplant 0.50 m between hills, zigzag plantingsweet pepper 0.75 m between hills, straight planting

5) Select any of the following recommended varieties: (see East-West Seed Co.Inc. Technology Manual for description of each variety and technicalinformation of different vegetable crops (Annex A)

a) Tomato Diamante F1, Marimar F1, Maxima F, Improved Pope, Cardinalb) Eggplant Domino F1, Casino F1, jackpot F1, Bulakena, Batangas Long

Purplec) Sweet pepper Majesty F1, Bless F1, All Season, Trinity F1d) Hot pepper Django F1, Sinigang, Hotshot

6) Maintenance Off-bar two weeks after transplanting, apply fertilizer at

different growth stages (see Annex B), hill-up after fertilization, removeweeds.

7) Harvesting

a) Tomato harvest as 1) mature green fruit starts to show cream streaks atthe bottom end; 2) breaker-blossom end turns pinkish or reddish; 3) redripe full red skin color is attained.

b) Eggplant harvest when fruit reaches 2/3 of its maximum size for thevariety before fruit hardens or shows streaks of unusual color

c) Pepper harvest as 1) mature green(fruit waxy and shiny); 2) breaker(fruit turns yellow or reddish); 3) red ripe (fruit skin is red)

4.2.1.2 Cucurbitae Crops (Ampalaya, patola, cucumber, calabaza, upo,watermelon, muskmelon)

Ampalaya and Cucumber

1) Distance of plantinga) Ampalaya 1 m between hills x 2 rows distance at 3 m apart in between 2

rows of coconut trees, straight plantingb) Cucumber 0.50 m between hills x 3 rows at 1 m apart in between 2 rows

of coconut trees



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female flowers appear regulate water supply to improve fruit setting. Thenadd more water when the fruit starts to develop. However, during ripeningstage, it is important to reduce or withhold water for better tasting andsweeter fruits (Watermelon pamphlet, Allied Botanical Corp.).

5. First fruiting usually the first flowers produce poorly developed ovarieswhich results in deformed fruits. Removal of the first fruits is usuallyrecommended (Watermelon pamphlet, Allied Botanical Corp.). Leave only 2-3healthy fruits per plant. Most of the flowers appears 30-50 days afteremergence.

6. Weed control is essential especially during early stage. However,watermelon is sensitive to some herbicide and should be applied with care. Itis advisable to practice mulching (plastic or rice straw).

7. Harvesting at 30-50 days after pollination. Use a combination of theharvesting indicators: 1) light green, curly tendrils on the stem near the pointof attachment of the melon usually turn brown and dry; 2) the surface color

of the fruit turns dull; 3) the skin becomes resistant to penetration by thethumbnail and is rough to the tough; 4) the bottom of the melon (where it lieson the soil) turns from light green to a yellowish color( http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/watermelon1.html ).These indicatorsfor choosing a ripe watermelon are much reliable than thumping the melonwith a knuckle. Many watermelon do not emit the proverbial dull thud whenripe. For these, the dull thud may indicate an over-ripe, mushy melon.

The growing vegetable industry is enhanced with the promotion of R & Dworks of government, non-government agencies and private seed companiesthat have developed several modern vegetable technologies to increasevegetable productivity. These are the vegetable farming practices using:

a) Plastic mulch to secure vegetable production during rainy season andreduce time and labor cost for weeding, plastic mulch is being used byvegetable planters today (EWSC leaflet). The plastic mulch can be used inplanting solanaceous vegetables and fruit vegetable i.e. watermelonplanting (Fig.1a). To clip the plastic mulch firmly on the soil, cuttedcoconut leaf fronds about 6 inches in length with pointed tip was usedinstead of bamboo sticks (commonly used). Placing holes in the plasticmulch was done by pre-heating an appropriate size of tin can and pressingit into designated planting hole (Fig.1b). The benefits of plastic mulch arethe following (ESWC New Technologies Info Package):

a.

Reduces evaporation soil water loss is reduced under plastic mulch.As a result, a more uniform soil moisture is maintained and irrigationfrequency can be reduced.

b. Fewer weed problems black & silver-on-black mulches reduce lightpenetration to the soil. Weeds cannot generally survive under such acondition.

c. Reduces fertilizer leaching excess water run-off the imperviousmulch, fertilizer beneath the mulch is not lost by leaching so thatfertilizers are optimally used and not wasted.

d. Reduces soil compaction soil under plastic mulch remain loose, friableand well-aerated.

e. Root pruning eliminated cultivation is eliminated except in the areabetween the mulched strips.

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f. Cleaner vegetable produce edible product from mulched crop iscleaner and less subjected to rot, since no soil is splashed onto theplants or fruit.

g. Reduce drowning of crops water is shed from the row area by theraised tapered bed so that excess runs off the field, thus reducingdrowning and other excess soil water stress.

b) Trellis/Trellising net is most commonly used in growing cucurbits likeampalaya, upo, patola, melon and cucumber. It is also being used inlegumes and some other solanaceous crops. This was used in ampalaya,tomato and cucumber production at PCA-DRC (Fig .2). The advantages oftrellis/trellising nets are:

a. Helps you save on spaceb. Plants are easier to care forc. Plants will not be easily destroyed by heavy rains or windsd. Fruits are not easily attacked by ground crawling pestse. Fruits are healthier and cleaner

f. Fruits are less subjected to rot than when lying on the soggy soil

c) Seedling tray (Fig. 3a) - for tomato and eggplant seedlings for good andvigorous seedling is important, even critical because the health or qualityof seedlings will largely contribute and determine the success of the crop.In the absence of plastic trays, seedlings can be temporary transplanted innative seedling container - rolled banana leaves (Fig. 3b) about one weekbefore field planting.

d) Yellow sticky (with grease) billboard in vegetable plots as insect repellant to minimize insect infestation and use of synthetic insecticides, thesematerials are being installed in the vegetable demo plots at PCA-DRC,

Bago Oshiro, Davao City as illustrated in Figure 4.

e) Foliar fertilization if the supply of one or more of major (N, P, K)secondary (Ca, Mg, S) and trace nutrients (Fe, Mn, Mo, B, Cu, Zn, Cl andNi) is deficient, plants growth and development will be adversely affectingits yields (Yara Fertilizer Phil. Leaflet). To get high yield, these plant foodnutrients must be present in the soil in available forms and in sufficientand balanced amounts. This is an ideal situation and hardly achievable.Soil application of fertilizers is still major method to feed effectively.However, there are some instances where nutrients from the soil becomeshardly available to plants.

Thus, the need for foliar fertilization offers a simple solution totackle nutrient deficiency problems. It is a good and practical tosupplement the soil-applied fertilizer (Yara Fertilizer Phil. Leaflet). Some ofthe benefits of foliar fertilization are as follows:

1) Quick plant response to treating physiological disorders in plant causedby nutrient deficiency/depletion in the soil;

2) Effective in alleviating temporary nutrient deficiencies due to theabsence of non-conducive soil environment; and

3) Two to twenty (2-20) times more efficient in food translocation thansoil-applied fertilizers.

Some of the important nutrients for vegetables that can be applied inliquid form are: (based on Liquid Natural Organic Micronutrient ChelatesLeaflets and Liquid Systemic Nutrient ([P] Delivery Leaflet, Sagrex Corp)



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Nutrient Function Deficiency Symptoms Rate/Modeof Application

1) Boron- B (10%) highly neededby ampalaya,watermelon

2) Zinc - Zn (10%)Micronutrientchelates

3) Copper Cu(5%)

4) Molybdenum Mo (4%)

Protein synthesis,formation of planthormones, promotesmaturity, increasesset of flowers byenhancingfemaleness andinhibiting maleness,affects nitrogen &carbohydrates,water relation inplants

Growth hormone,seed & grainformation, maturitydate, height ofplant, proteinsynthesis

Enzyme activator,major function inphotosynthesis & inreproductive stages,

respiration,increases sugarcontent, improvesflavor, intensifiescolor and greatlyimproves thekeeping qualities infruits &vegetables inshipment & storage.

N metabolism & isnecessary for the

fixation of nitrogenby N-fixing bacteria,essential for nitratereduction

Death of apicalgrowing point, lateralshoots then develop &their growing pointsdie so that plantbecomes stunted &composed ofnumerous smallshoots, stems &leaves may becomethickened, distorted,brittle, flowering &fruiting greatlyreduced.

Death of apicalgrowing point, unevenmaturity of seeds

Inhibit conversion ofammonia to glutamicacid (protein) and atip burn and marginal

scorch seen on theleaves, leaves mayappear twisted &curled.

Chlorosis in the formof spotting, mottling

or general yellowing

Deficiency RateCrop Maint. 1 li/haMod. Def. 2-3li/haSev.Def 3-4 li/haFrequency of appln-Spray every 15 days,applied after heavyrain or irrigation,early morning or lateafternoon

Crop Maint. 1-2 li/haMed.Def. 2-3 li/haSev. Def. 3-4li/ha

Crop Maint. 1-2li/haMod. Def. 2-3 li/haSev.Def. 4-6li/ha

Crop Maint. 2li/haMod. Def. 1-2li/ha

Sev. Def. 3-4 li/haApplied at earlygrowth phase untilbefore plts enter theirmax. growth basic tolegumes, esp. if noseed inoculation ispracticed.



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Nutrient Function Deficiency Symptoms Rate/Modeof Application

5. Calcium - Ca(chelated) 12%

6. Phosphorus(Phos Pro) 16%P w/ 4% Ca

7. Manganese Mn(5%)

Strengthens cellwalls andmembranes, ensuresvigorous healthygrowth, diseaseresistance &protection fromtoxins, longer shelflife, keeps freshnessof harvested fruit orcrop to avoid lossesfrom wilting/rottingduring storage ortransport; AdequateCa and correct Ca-Mg ratio contributesto good soilstructure & texturehence waterpenetration &aeration.

Increased fruit set,more uniformmaturity, improvedyield-solids contentof fruit &vegetables,improveshandling, storageand keepingqualities of crops,require for normalroot development ofplants

Have a direct orindirect influence onchlorophyllformation, enzymesthat function inrespiration, &protein synthesis,activates thereduction of nitrate& hydroxylamine toammonia.

Poor soil structure,hence poor aerationresulting to ananaerobic decomposi-tion process of cropresidues that producesalcohol& formaldehydeinstead of mild acidsthat forms humuscomplex. Alcohol(microbicide) killsmicrobes andformaldehyde apreservative forembalming whenpresent in the soil aredetrimental to thecrops.Incidence of diseasese.g.burning of leafyvegetables tips &edges (cabbage &lettuce), blossom endof tomato, potato softrot, water drenchedmarks in watermelon

Plants susceptible tofungal and bacterialplant pathogens, lessuniform maturity ofcrops, low quality ofcrops in terms of itsstorage ability

Chlorosis as flecking,streaking or mottlingdepending on thecrop affected. Growthis stunted, necroticareas may develop onthe leaves, subnormalroot development,yellowish-green stemoften hardy & woody



Crop Maint. 2 li/haMed.Def. 4-5 li/haSev. Def. 6-8li/haLiquid Mn recommended to beused during the entiregrowth of plant.



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f. Pest and disease management on vegetables

Pest and disease incidence on vegetables if not controlled can also affectgreatly the yield of these crops. Hence, proper and timely application ofpreventive measure should be done. A knowledge of the possible pest anddisease incidence for different kinds of crops is therefore necessary.

Some of the most common pests and diseases of some vegetables andtheir control measures are:

Pest/Disease Description Damage Control Measures Plants beingattacked

Pest1.Fruit worm

2.Flea beetle

3.Spider mites

4. Aphids

5. Fruit & shootborer( Leucinodesorbonalis Guenee)

Adult-yellowishbrown, larva ispale with blackhead, usuallywider thansegments latercolor turn greenishbrown

Larva lives in thetissue of themidrib, petiole &stem. Adult isminute metallicblue

Nymph-yellowishto lateral brownspots,adult femaleis light reddishbrown with darklateral spots maleadult is yellowish

Winged & non-winged types, formcolonies underside

of leaves

A typical mothbelonging to familyPyralidae , adultare weak fliers,active at night

Larva feeds oninflorescence &bores into thefruit

Feeds onleaves &flowers ofvegetable,scarred stem &fruit surfaces

Nymph & adultsuck the plantsap whichcauses leavesto discolor

Sucks the juicefrom plants &some transmit

viral disease toplants

Larva boresinto tendershoots & fruits,shoot wiltreducing plantvigor& fruitunfit for humanconsumption

Spray S3vin 85WP at 3tbsp/5gal of water orany insecticide at7-10 daysinterval untilcontrolled, hotpepper spray, B.thuringensis

- do -

Spray Aramite at1kg/200 galwater

Spray insecticidefollowingrecommended

dosage, hotpepper soln,organophosphate

Sanitation, hotpepper spray,syntheticpyrethroids

Tomato,eggplant,beans,peas,potato

Eggplant,Cucumber,squash,cabbage

Beans, onions,garlic, tomato,eggplant

Almost allVegetables

Eggplant,tomato, stringbeans/peas,



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6. Thrips

Diseases1. Bacterial wilt

2. Angular leafspot

3. Downy mildew

4. Mosaic virus

5. Anthracnose

Very small (1.3mm)long, slenderinsects, with 2 prsof wings that arefringed with longhairs, adult paleyellow light brown

Caused by:Erwiniatracheiphila

Pseudomonassyringae

Cercospora sp.

Psuedoperono-spora cubensisfungus

Cucumber mosaicvirus(transmittedby aphids vector ormechanicalmeans)

Colletotrichum

lagenarium

Feed byrasping thesurface ofleaves &sucking up theliberated plantfluid

Wilting ofyounger leaves& yellowing ofthe oldest leaf

Younger leavesshow palegreen pimpleson the undersurface whilethe uppersurfacedevelopslesions

Upper leafsurfaces showangular spots &

becomesnecrotic as dis.progress

Light & darkgreen moltingof leaves,slight curling,malformationof leaflets

Leaf

lesions beginas watersoaked, thenbecomeyellowishcircular spots,black & sunkencankers appearon the fruits

Biological controlusing predaceousmites, bugs,lacewingsfeeding thethrips

Remove infectedplants

Practice croprotation, spraydithane M-45 10-12 days whenfruits areformed,sanita-tion

Apply protectantand systemicfungicides

Remove infectedplant,sanitation,refrainfrom smoking,rouging

Practice

sanitation, croprotation, usecommerciallydisease-freeseed

Onions, garlictomato,pea, eggplant,Watermelon,beans

Potato,tomato,eggplant,stringbeans,cucum-ber,

Watermelon,ampalayaTomato,beans,watermelon, cucumber,squashampalaya

Cucurbits,tomato,ampalaya

Tomato,pepper,cucumber,melons,squash, celery

Cucurbits,bean



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6. Phythopthoradisease or fruitrot

7. Root knotnematode

8. Early blight

8. Late blight

PhythopthoraPalvimoraP.capsici-pepper

Meloidogyne spp.

Alternaria solanifungus

Phytopthorainfestans

Infected fruitturns brown &rots in fewdays

Presence ofswelling orknots on theroots,vegetativesymptomsresembledrought injuryor nutrient def.Affected plantsstunted

Circular brownspots appearon leaves &stems, asthese enlarge,concentricrings appeargiving areas atarget-like

appearance,defoliation oflower leaves &death of plant

Attacks bothtubers andfoliage at anystage of devt.,soft rot oftubers

Crop rotation,avoid poorlydrained soils,spray fungicide

Apply chickenmanure, croprotation

Thinning ofaffected plants,spray fungicide,crop rotation,use blightresistant variet.,increase spacingbetween plts., donot overmulch as

this leads to wetsoils

-do-

Cucurbits,pepper,tomato,eggplant

Cabbage,tomato,Squash,eggplant

Watermelon,tomato,eggplant,pepper,potatoes

Potato,watermelon,tomato,eggplant



16/25

COCONUT

With the coconut trees are already established and already at bearingstage, the main farming practices are fertilization, underbrushing-weeding,mulching of the main rootzone of coconut (also considered the fertilizing zone attrunk base of trees), and harvesting. Post-harvest and primary processingpractices (seasoning of partially immature nuts for 710 days, dehusking andcopra processing) are common in small to medium scale farms. If sold to coconutdesiccating plants, dehusked nuts are immediately marketed. Coconut husksawait decortication/defibering, while coconut shells are converted to charcoal andsold to activated carbon processors.

A separate fertilization for the stands of coconut and the vegetable crop(Annex A) is recommended. There are two average inorganic/mineral fertilizerrecommendations for coconut: 1) using the combination of single fertilizers(ammonium sulfate plus common salt (for potassium-rich soils) or potassiumchloride (0-0-60) for soils deficient in K; and 2) using ready-to-applymultinutrient fertilizers as the 14-5-20-0.02 (B), now commercially available like

COCOGRO (ATLAS Brand) in 25 kg. capacity bags.

These two fertilizer recommendations are compatible with the applicationof appropriate organic fertilizers (compost, cocopeat, commercial organicfertilizers). If capital resources to purchase organic fertilizers is available, anyof these organic fertilizers ( total N, P and K of at least 5%) may be appliedtogether with the mineral fertilizers (options 1 and 2) indicated below at the rateof 3-4 times of the periodic rates indicated. Organic fertilizers should be appliedabout a month ahead of the application of the inorganic/mineral fertilizers.Organic fertilizers serve best as soil conditioners and fertilizer supplements to thecoconut-vegetable cropping system.

Option 1Application of Single-Fertilizers (per tree):

Age/Stage Rate of Fertilizer Combination a

Field-planting (FP) 150 g AS + 160 g SC or 200g KCl

6 months from FP 200 g AS + 200 g SC or 200 g KCl

1 year 500 g AS + 450 g SC or 600 g KCl

2 years 750 g AS + 750 g SC or 900 g KCl

3 years 1.0 kg AS + 1.25 kg SC or 1.5 kg KCl4 years 1.25 kg AS + 1.35 kg SC or 1.70 kg KCl

5 years and onwards 1.50 kg AS + 1.70 kg SC or 2.00 kg KCla AS Ammonium sulfate (21-0-0);

SC Sodium chloride (common salt); KCl Potassium chloride (0-0-60)



17/25

Option 2Application of ready-to-apply multinutrient

fertilizer (per tree):

Age/Stage Rate of 14-5-20multi-nutrient Fertilizer a

Field-planting (FP) 400 g

6 months from FP 600 g

1 year 1.25 kg

2 years 1.50 kg

3 years 2.00 kg

4 years 2.50 kg

5 years and onwards 3.00 kga contains 14% N, 5% P2O5, 20% K2O plus 15% Cl , 4.5%S, 0.02% Boron, Ca.

5. I NVESTMENT N EEDS : COSTS AND R ETURNS

For one hectare of coconut land or in a pure stand of coconut, only about25% of the soil mass is actually utilized by the coconut (Magat,1999). Theremaining 75% of coconut land can be productively utilized by planting suitableintercrops e.g. vegetables. Thus, if the effective land use index (ELUI) isassumed at: 0.30 ha for eggplant, 0.30 ha for ampalaya, 0.15 ha for cabbage,the total land use index adds to 1.75 ha or 75% increase in land use intensity(LUI) over 1 ha coconut monocropped. Hence, in the annual cropping cost and

return analysis of coconut + vegetable cropping model, the ELUI for eachintercrop planted with the standing coconuts is used.

Table 5.1 and 5.2 shows an average cost and return analysis of the eachvegetable intercrop, eggplant, ampalaya and cabbage respectively, covering a 3-year production period. For each component intercrop, details of costs involved inthe production are indicated. Please take note that the cost and return analysisvaries depending on local farm inputs and prices of farm produce, particularly atfarm gate price of each component vegetable crop. The same is true with maincrop, coconut, the economic conditions and local prices of copra as well ascoconut products, usually dictated by global price trends, serves as importantbasis of profitability in coconut farming.



18/25

Table 5.1 An estimated costs and returns analysis of coconut + eggplant+ ampalaya + cabbage intercropping system (3-yr croppingperiod), data for eggplant, ampalaya and cabbage mainly fromDA-BAS (2001-03).

Crop/Cost item Year 1 Year 2 Year 3Eggplant (0.30 ha)Cash Cost: ( seeds, fertilizers, pesticides,hired labor, other material inputs andexpenses)

P15,069 P14,927 P17,096

Non-cash Cost: (hire-labor paid in kind,harvsters share, lease rental)

647 582 581

Imputed Cost: (operator/family labor,depreciation, interest on operatingcapital, rental value of owned land)

7,514 7,669 8,347

Total Costs 23,230 23,178 26,024Returns:

Gross Returns 30,033 27,884 27,414Returns over cash costs 15,264 12,957 10,319Net Returns 7,103 4,706 1,390BCR 0.31 0.20 0.05Yield per 0.30 ha (kg) 2,495 2,589 2,529Price per kg (farmgate) 12.16 10.77 10.84Production cost/kg 9.31 8.95 10.29Ampalaya (0.30 ha)Cash Cost (seeds/fertilizer/pesticides P13,117 P13,407 P15,331 hired labor, land tax, fuel. Oil)Non-cash Cost (hired labor-paid in kind 447 497 540Harvesters share)Imputed cost (operator & family labor, 11,485 11,840 12,812exchange labor, depreciation)Total Costs 25,049 25,744 28,683Returns:Gross Returns 23,873 27,927 31,125Net Returns over cash costs 10,756 14,519 15,794Net Returns (1,176) 2,183 2,442BCR -0.04 0.08 0.09Yield per 0.30 ha (kg) 1,705 1,729 1,743Price per kg (farmgate) 14.00 16.15 17.86Production cost/kg 14.69 14.89 16.46Cabbage (0.15 ha)Cash Cost (seeds/fertilizer/pesticides P5,167 P5,307 P5,948 hired labor, land tax, fuel. Oil)Non-cash Cost (hired labor-paid in kind 2.1 2.85 3.0Harvesters share)Imputed cost (operator & family labor, 3,145 3,482 3,760exchange labor, depreciation)Total Costs 8,314 8,792 9,710Returns:Gross Returns 10,277 14,194 15,301Net Returns over cash costs 5,110 8,887 9,353Net Returns 1,963 5,402 5,591BCR 0.24 0.61 0.58Yield per 0.15 ha (kg) 1,742 1,757 1,781

Price per kg (farmgate) 5.90 8.08 8.59



19/25

Crop/Cost item Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

Coconut (1 ha):@ 2 t copra/ha, @P15/kg orNuts=8,000/haFertilizer application P360 360 360Circle-weeding, 4.5 md a , 6x/yr P2,430 2,430 2.430Fertilizer cost b P2,000 P2,000 P2,000Cost of harvesting, piling,hauling,dehusking @ P0.35/nut

P2,800 P2,800 P2,800

Copra making @ P0.12/kg P960 P 960 P960Transport/Handlings, @P0.20/kg P400 P 400 P400Total Cost P8,950 P8,950 P8,950Yield (kg copra/ha) 2,000 2,000 2,000Gross Income P30,000 P30,000 P30,000Net Income P21,050 P21,050 P21,050BCR 2.35 2.35 2.35a man-daysb average fertilization: 1.5 kg AS + 1.7 Kg NaCl (common salt) @ P 5/kg and P 4/kg,respectively, @ 135 trees/ha.

Table 5.2 Summary of 3-year average of Costs and Returns of aCoconut+Eggplant+Ampalaya+Cabbage in a 3-year periodcropping model (Land Use Intensity= 1.75 ha: 1 ha coconut, 0.3ha eggplant, 0.3 ha ampalaya, 0.15 ha cabbage)

EconomicIndex

Coconut(1 ha)

Eggplant(0.3 ha)

Ampalaya

(0.3 ha)Cabbage

(0.15 ha)Total

Total Cost P8,950 P24,144 P26,492 P8,939 P68,525

Yield (kg) 2,000 2,538 1,726 1,760 8,024 GrossIncome

P30,000 28,444 27,642 13,257 99,343

Net Income P21,050 4,300 1,150 4,318 30,818

Benefit-CostRatio (BCR)

2.35 0.18 0.04 0.48 0.76 (ave)

Prodn costper kg)

P4.47 9.52 15.3 5.07 34.36



20/25

6. P OTENTIAL F INANCING S OURCES /C REDIT FACILITIES

Self or In-House Finance (Private) Local Government Units (Municipal, Provincial, Congressional) Government Banks & Lending Institutions Private Banks and Lending Agencies Cooperatives Foundations

R EFERENCES :

Deltaspray foliar fertilizers Leaflet. Published by Yara Fertilizers Phil. Inc. Unit1404, 14 th /F Antel 2000. 121 Valero St. Salcedo Village, Makati City.Phil.

ESWC Manual and New Technologies Information Package. Undated. Published bythe East-West Seed Company, Inc.

Liquid natural organic micronutrient chelates (Ca,Mn,Zn & S, B,Cu) leaflets.Published by Sagrex Corporation. TCG Compound. Km 9. Sasa,Davao City.

Liquid Systemic Nutrient (PhosPro) Delivery. Published by Sagrex Corporation.TCG Compound. Km 9. Sasa, Davao City.

Magat, S. S. 2003. Coconut Planting System (Spacing and Arrangement) Optionsin Intercropping or Multiple cropping of coconut lands. CANFARMSTechnology Notes 21. PCA-RDEB. July, 2003. 4 p.

Magat, S.S. 1999. Production management of coconut ( Cocos nucifera L.)Published by PCA, Diliman, Quezon City. 67 p.

Magat, S.S. 2004. Growing of intercrops in coconut lands to generate more foodand agricultural products, jobs, and enhancing farm incomes.Coconut Intercropping Primer. PCA-RDEB, Diliman, Quezon City.

PCARRD-DOST. 1995. The Tomato Industry. Los Banos, Laguna. Phil. Council forAgriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources research andDevelopment.

PCARRD-DOST. 2000. The Eggplant Industry. Los Banos, Laguna. Phil. Council forAgriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources research and

Development.PHILIPPINE COCONUT AUTHORITY (undated). Intercropping coconut with

solanaceous crops. PCA Brochure.

Tips for a successful ampalaya production. Undated. Information leaflet producedby Allied Botanical Corporation. # 15, 21 st Ave.,Tagumpay, Cubao,Quezon City.

Tips for a successful watermelon production. Undated. Information Leafletproduced by Allied Botanical Corporation. # 15, 21 st Ave.,Tagumpay,Cubao, Quezon City.



21/25

From the internet:

ampalaya.comhttp://www.bar.gov.phhttp://bas.gov.ph/downloads_viewhttp://www.da.gov.ph/tips/sweet pepper.htmlhttp://www.hortinet.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/tomato industry_situationer.htmlhttp:/www.tribo.org/vegetable/ampalaya.htmlhttp://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/watermelon.htmlhttp://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/cucumber.htmlhttp:vegetablemdonline.pptath.cornell.edu/factsheets/cucurbits_Anthracnose.htmhttp:vegetablemdonline.pptath.cornell.edu/factsheets/cucurbits_Phytoph.htmhttp:vegetablemdonline.pptath.cornell.edu/factsheets/cucurbits_Foliar.htmhttp:vegetablemdonline.pptath.cornell.edu/factsheets/cucurbits_beetles.htm

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE,YOU MAY CONTACT THE FOLLOWING OFFICES SITUATED NEAR YOU:

Research & Development, and Extension Branch, PCA, Diliman,Quezon City 1101Telefax: 920-0415 Tel: 426-1398 Email: [email protected] [email protected] or [email protected]

Field Services Branch, PCA, Diliman, Quezon City 1101Telefax: 928-9488 Tel: 929-1590

Albay Research Center (ARC), PCA, Banao, Guinobatan AlbayTel: (052) 484-6686 or 484-6685

Davao Research Center (DRC), PCA, Bago-Oshiro, Davao City, PO Box80437 Tel: (082) 293-0115/0116/0119 Fax No. (082) 293-0571 Email:[email protected]

Zamboanga Research Center (ZRC), PCA, San Ramon, ZamboangaCity, PO Box 356 Tel: (0917) 710-1820 Email: pca_zrc@pldtdsl,net

PCA Region IV-B (MIMAROPA and rest of Luzon) Diliman, Quezon CityTelefax: 924-4761 Tel: 927-5227

PCA Region V (Bicol) , Sagpon, Legaspi City

Tel: (052) 245-5263 Fax: (052) 245-5263 PCA Region VI (Western Visayas), 12 Mabini St., Iloilo City

Tel: (033) 337-7514 Fax: (033) 335-0977

PCA Region VII (Central Visayas), DA7, Mandaue City (CEBU)Tel: (032) 345-0009 Fax: (032) 345-8435

PCA Region VIII (Eastern Visayas), Govt Center, Candahug, Palo,LeyteTel: (053) 323-2698 Fax: (053) 323-2995

http://www.bar.gov.ph/http://www.da.gov.ph/tips/sweet%20pepper.htmlhttp://www.hortinet.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/tomato%20industry_situationer.htmlhttp://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/watermelon.htmlhttp://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/watermelon.htmlmailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/watermelon.htmlhttp://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/veggies/watermelon.htmlhttp://www.hortinet.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/tomato%20industry_situationer.htmlhttp://www.da.gov.ph/tips/sweet%20pepper.htmlhttp://www.bar.gov.ph/


22/25

PCA Region IX (Western Mindanao), J.P. Rizal St., Zamboanga CityTel: (062) 991-6369 Fax: (062) 992-1031

PCA Region X (Northern Mindanao), #30 Daumar St., Cagayan De OroCityTel: (088) 857-3707 Fax: (088) 272-2814 Email: [email protected]

PCA Region XI (Southern Mindanao), PCA Complex, Bago-Ohiro,Tugbok District, Davao CityTel: (082) 293-0384 Telefax: (082) 293-0049

PCA Region XII (Central Mindanao), 2 nd Flr, AS Bldg. , Cor. JP Laureland CM Recto Sts, Gen. Santos CityTel: (083) 544-6263 Telefax: (083) 553-9424 Email:[email protected]

PCA Region XIII (CARAGA), JC Aquino Ave., Pajera Subd., ButuanCityTel: (085) 815-3232 Fax: (085) 226-4621

PCA-ARMM, Emilio Ong Bldg., Quezon Ave., Cotabato CityTelefax: (064) 421-2412.

Drafted by:

MI Secretaria/SS Magat

21 October 2005/ PCA/DRC-ASD/RDEB-ARMD

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


23/25

Annex A. Technical information of different vegetable crops at variousgrowth stages (based on EWSC varieties).

Vegetable # seedsper g

Sowing rate/ha (g)Transplant Direct

Planting distance (cm)In row Between rows*

Trellised w/o Tr.

Cropcycledays

TomatoEggplantSweet PepperHot Pepper

AmpalayaPatolaCucumberCalabasaUpoWatermelonMuskmelon

CabbageCauliflowerPechayRadishMustazaKangkongCoriander

ShallotOnionCarrot

SitaoSnapbeanBush SitaoMungbeanCowpeaOkraSweet corn

300250200200

5155010103040

170170370605507090

300300570

6762572010

200200200200

2000 3500550 1200550 1200

1000 1500350 800

600 1000 500 2000

450700

2000 50008000

2000 5000 10,000

30,000

6,0006,000

10,000

7,0007,0007,000

10,00010,000

7,00012,000

50 7575 75 12050 75 10050 75 100

50 25075 20050 75100 300200 200100 250

75 250

757575

broadcast-do--do--do-

5 155 1510 10

30 7530 7530 5010 1030 10050 7525 75

120180180180

150180100160180100100

85603060353050

110120120

120120120

4512012070

* Recommended spacing using raised bed method to achieve highest yield withyear round cropping (EWSC Technical Information Package Manual)



24/25

Annex B. Fertilization schedule (kind and rate of fertilizer) for differentvegetable crops.

Vegetable crop Day Kind Rate

1.Tomato & eggplant

2. Squash

3.Ampalaya

4.Cucumber

5. Watermelon

FP -03

1014172855

07

284970

0

3

101730

4458

05

101520

2530

35

03

1017

24313845

Solophos (0-18-0)Calcium nitrate

-do-Urea (45-0-0)Calcium nitrate14-14-14KCl (0-0-60)

14-14-14Calcium nitrateUrea (45-0-0)14-14-14

-do-

Mix compost or anyorganic fertilizer to soilprior to planting14-14-14Calcium nitrateBoraxUrea (45-0-0)14-14-1414-14-14Borax

Zinc sulfate14-14-1414-14-14

Calcium nitrate-do-

Urea(45-0-0)14-14-14

-do-BoraxCalcium nitrate14-14-14

-do-

14-14-14-do--do-

Calcium nitrate14-14-14

14-14-1414-14-1414-14-1414-14-14

KCl (0-0-60)Ammoniumphosphate(16-20-0)

10 g /plant60 g/16 li water60 g/16 li water15 g/plant50 g/16 li water30 g/plant10 g/plant

30 g /plant60 g/16 li water20 g/plant30 g/plant30 g/plant

20 gm/plant60 g/16 li water0.30 g/plant20 g/plant20 g/plant20 g/plant0.3g /plant

0.3g/plant20g/plant20g/plant

60 g/16 li water-do-

20 g/plant20 g/plant20 g/plant0.3 g/plant60 g/16 li water20 g/plant

20g/plant

20g/plant60g/16 li water10g/plant60g/16 li water10g/plant20g/plant20g/plant20g/plant

10g/plant15g/plant



25/25

(a)

(b)

Fig. 1. (a) Plastic mulch used in watermelon production at PCA-DRC, encircled partshows the cutted coconut leaf frond used as attachment clip for the mulch tothe soil, (b) heated tin can for making planting hole in the plastic mulch.

(a) (b) (c)

Fig 2. Use of trellis/trellising net in (a) ampalaya, (b)cucumber and(c) tomato production at PCA-DRC, Bago Oshiro, Davao City.

Fig. 3. Eggplant and tomato seedlings placed in (a) seedling trays and (b) bags

(rolled banana leaves), respectively before field transplanting.

a) b)

Fig. 4. Yellow sticky billboard (with grease) installed in vegetable plots, which repelsflying insects infesting the vegetables planted at PCA-DRC, Bago Oshiro,Davao City.

Documents

Coconut Vegetable Cropping Model