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INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

In the field of agriculture, fertilizers played an important role in producing good

crops. Fertilizers supply primary plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphoric acid and

potash. However, these fertilizers are very expensive that most of our small farmers

cannot afford to buy.

The study, published in the current issue of the journal Toxicology and Industrial

Health, suggests that combinations of commonly used agricultural chemicals, in

concentrations that are found in groundwater, can significantly influence the immune and

endocrine systems as well as neurological health (Jaeger & Carlson, 1999).

Inorganic fertilizers may then bring hazards to our health and to our environment

and can pollute the water and soil.

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is one of the most important and widely used

vegetable. It ranks high in providing Vitamin C for our diet. It has a variety of uses like in

the preparation of catsup and as a constituent of different recipes. Tomato can be raised in

almost places in the Philippines. According to the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics

(BAS), the production of tomato in our country ranked the 4th greatest production in

2009.

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Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO) is called beneficial microbes because it

inhabits the soil and the surfaces of all living things, inside and out. IMO is involved in

different processes such as fermentation, decomposition, nitrogen fixation, and nutrient

fixation. It aids in the assimilation of the plants. It enables better nutrient absorption and

hence healthier plant growth. IMO is said to be cheap because of the availability of the

materials in cultivating it. It can be collected in rice or in fermented vegetables like

mustard. A large diversity of IMO can be found in forests, bamboo groves and areas with

thick accumulation of plant residues. The introduction of IMO as substitute to chemical

fertilizer in the production of tomato would lessen the use of these hazardous chemicals.

Hence, the researchers came to with the idea of using IMO as a substitute to get

rid of the bad effects of inorganic fertilizers in our environment and produce a better

yield of crops.

Statement of the Problem

Generally, this study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Indigenous

Microorganisms in the growth and yield performance of tomato (Lycopersicon

esculentum).

To be specific, this study sought out answers to the following questions:

1. Were there improvements in tomato production using IMO in terms of:

a. plant height

b. total number of fruits in each treatment

c. total weight of fruits in each treatment

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2. Were there any significant differences among the treatments in terms of:

a. plant height

b. total number of fruits in each treatment

c. total weight of fruits in each treatment

3. Was IMO comparable to the commercial inorganic fertilizer in terms of expense?

Hypotheses

1. There were improvements in tomato production using IMO in terms of :

a. plant height

b. total number of fruits in each treatment

c. total weight of fruits in each treatment

2. There were no significant differences among the treatments in terms of :

a. plant height

b. total number of fruits in each treatment

c. total weight of fruits in each treatment

3. IMO was comparable to the commercial inorganic fertilizer in terms of expense.

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Significance of the Study

In our modern society, the growth of Science develops as many years pass. And

as of today, new methods, processes, discoveries, knowledge and formulas widen and

have been developed in our country. These developments make our daily life easier,

better and more comfortable.

Agricultural products, especially fertilizers increased their cost because of the

economic crisis that our country is experiencing today. Fertilizers are the products that

our farmers depend on for the nutritional requirements of their crops like tomato,

eggplant, bell pepper, and cabbage, and many more. Their good harvest depends on these

products but many farmers cannot afford to buy these products to supply nutrients for

their crops.

In crop production, the use of chemical fertilizers is in large amount. However,

these products emit methane (CH4), a greenhouse gas contributing to ozone layer

depletion and global warming.

The introduction of Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO) in the plant can be

substituted from inorganic fertilizers, enabling less emission of methane and preventing

groundwater contamination, soil acidity, and even global warming. It is found to

condition the soil and give the required nutrients needed by the plants. IMO can also be

collected from the environment and nature-friendly materials like rice and brown sugar.

Therefore, IMO would promote another way of increasing the crop production at

lesser expense without affecting the soil at the same time.

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Scope and Limitation

This study focused mainly on the effectiveness of Indigenous Microorganisms

(IMO) in the growth and yield performance of tomato. Tomato seeds were obtained from

Fruits and Vegetables Seed Center at CLSU. This study was conducted at Gabaldon,

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija which started on August 2010 and ended on January

2011. There were five treatments with three replications. Each replicate had seven

seedlings. This study used the variety of tomato called Rosanna. Tandelum soil was used

for growing the test plant.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO)

Soil microorganism is a group of living, breathing organisms and, therefore, need

to eat. They compete with plants for nutrients including Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium

and micronutrients as well. They also consume amino acids, vitamins, and other soil

compounds. Their nutrients are primarily derived from the organic matter they feed upon.

The benefit is that they also give back or perform other functions that benefits higher

plant life (Carow, 2001).

Indigenous microorganism (IMO) is found and propagated from the immediate

vicinity of growing location. It is already naturally adapted to our climate and can easily

go to work in a symbiotic relationship with the plants. It provides natural fertilizer for the

plants and burrow deep to loosen soil providing a no-till environment.

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IMO is a beneficial member of the soil microorganisms including filamentous

fungi, yeasts and bacteria collected from non-cultivated soil. It has a high content of these

microbes on the soil with the presence of earthworm castings, often found under bamboo

trees. The increased diversity and activity of these beneficial microorganisms in the soil

can stimulate decomposition process, providing a constant supply of nutrients from the

soil organic matter, enhancing nutrient uptake by plant (Jensen, 2006).

IMO is the basis in making fertile land. Farming is not conceivable without land.

Therefore, adding fertility to land is the number one priority in farming. In the light of the

research done by scholars so far, about 700 kilograms of microorganisms are found to

live in 0.1 hectare of land for non- contaminated field although it varies depending on

how much organic material is contained in the land. Out of these, 70~ 75% is fungus and

20~25% bacteria and 5% small animals.

For a successful environment-friendly agriculture, making soil condition that is

close to the above is important.

Adequate condition and food for the microorganisms and small animals is

essential in order to make the soil condition.

When covered with straw mats or straws for 7 to 10 days, the hard land will have

white fungus and it becomes soft and wet. This environment never fails to attract

earthworms. Without having to add microorganisms artificially but simply by providing

environment for the microorganisms to live in, the land recovers strength on its own. In

proper environment, the fungus (microorganism) grows first. Nematodes that feed on

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these microorganisms are then attracted. Earthworms will follow. These organisms and

animals, in a harmony, improve the soil condition and help the growth of plants. 90% of

the microorganisms that are beneficial to plants live within 5 cm from surface.

When the land is covered by organic material such as rice straws, ideal condition

of shade to sun will be formed on the soil.

In such shady condition, water is kept from evaporation and the land is protected

from direct sunlight. Various methods are applied including rice straw or leaf mulching,

wild grass cultivation (Mulching) and rye sowing in order to form this environment.

Tomato Production

Tomatoes are different when grown inside a greenhouse or an outdoor farm. The

following data showed the difference between a greenhouse-grown and outdoor-grown

tomato plants.

Tomatoes can be red, yellow, orange, and spherical, plum-shaped, flat or pear-

shaped according to its variety. When grown in a greenhouse, it will produce a succession

of marketable fruits.

Tomatoes are grown in a greenhouse border beds (raised beds give better results)

or in growing bags or pots. Seeds are sown thinly in trays filled with compost and

covered lightly with more compost. The temperature must be at around 65°F (18°C) and

the compost must be moist. Seedlings are pricked out into 3 inches (7cm) pots filled with

compost and weaker seedlings must be removed after germination. The seedlings are

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ready to be planted when they are 6-8in (15-20cm) high and the flowers of the first truss

are starting to show. The average yield of tomatoes is 8lbs (3.5kg) per plant.

Watering is done regularly to keep the soil moist. Too much water will reduce

flavor, but insufficient water will cause dark sunken areas at the base of the fruits, a

condition known as blossom end rot. When plants are 4-5ft. (1.2-1.8cm) high, the lower

leaves will be cut off. The greenhouse must be shaded when the temperature reaches

80°F (25°C). The greenhouse is ventilated throughout the summer.

The tomatoes are picked when they are ripe and fully colorful, with the calyx still

attached. At the end of the season ripe green fruits in a layer on a tray placed in a drawer,

or cut the strings and the lay plants on a bed of straw, then cover with cloches.

The following are the pest found to destroy the plants: White fly, potato mosaic

virus, grey mould (botrytis), seedling blight. While these are some deficiencies:

magnesium deficiency, boron deficiency, foot and root rots, blossoms end rot, tomato leaf

mould.

On the other hand, outdoor tomato crops have more flavorsome fruits and, if bush

varieties are grown, is less hard work. They do not grow well at temperature below 61°F

(16°C) and do not tolerate frost, so in many areas protection will be needed.

Tomatoes enjoy a warm spot in front of a south facing wall and a rich, deep,

fertile soil with plenty of organic worked in.. They can be grown in 9in (23cm) pots or

growing bags. Some varieties are good in hanging baskets and window boxes.

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Seeds are sown 3/4in (18mm) deep at a temperature of 59°F (15°C) in compost-

filled seed trays. They are transplanted at the two or three-leaf stages into 2-3in (5-7cm)

pots, giving them plenty of light, space and ventilation. The young plants harden off, and

plant outside when the flowers on the lower can be seen. Its average yield is 4lbs. (1.8kg)

per plant.

For Cordon varieties: As the plants grow, tie the main stem loosely to a cane at

12in (30cm) intervals. When small tomatoes have developed on the fourth truss, remove

the growing point two leaves beyond it. Yellowing damaged and diseased leaves must

be removed below the fruit trusses as the growing season progresses, but do not overdo

this process. Watering must be regular and evenly to keep the soil moist. Over watering

can cause loss of flowers.

Bush varieties: Plant 12-36in (30-90cm) apart, depending on variety. They tend to

sprawl on the ground. Do not remove side shoots. Dwarf varieties can be spaced more

closely. Cover with cloches in the early stages of growth.

Ripe fruits are picked. The bush varieties can be harvested 7-8 weeks after

planting. Hanging a banana from the stem will help the ripening process. Ripen green

tomatoes by placing a layer of fruit on a tray and storing in a drawer, or lay the plants on

a bed of straw.

These are diseases and pests common in outdoor plants: Leafhopper, potato cyst,

eelworms, tomato blight, and damping-off in seedlings.

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Review of Related Studies

“Evaluation of the indigenous microorganisms in soilless culture: occurrence

and quantitative characteristics in the different growing systems” is the title of the

study that were conducted by Prommart Koohakan, Hideo Ikeda, Tanimnun Jeanaksorn,

Motoaki Tojo, Shin-Ichi Kusakari, Kiyotsugu Okada, and Suguru Sato. Quantitative

characteristics such as population density and population dynamics of the indigenous

microorganisms in four types of soilless tomato production systems were investigated.

For non-specific genera, the amount of the population of aerobic bacteria and fungi in

root was 9.2–10 and 4.2–5.5 Log cfu g−1, respectively, regardless of the location of

samples collected. For the specific genera, however, fluorescent pseudomonads showed

the highest population density (5.4 Log cfu g−1) followed by Fusarium spp. (2.5–

3.7 Log cfu g−1) and Pythium spp. (2.3–2.8 Log cfu g−1). Population of microorganisms

was significantly different between soilless culture systems as well. The coconut-fiber

system (organic substrate culture) showed the highest amount of fungi and Fusarium

spp., whereas the rockwool system (inorganic substrate culture) contained the highest

amount of fluorescent pseudomonads. Solution culture, DFT and NFT, contained higher

amounts of Pythium spp. than the substrate cultures throughout the experiment. NFT also

contained the largest population of Fusarium spp. compared to the other ones. In

population density investigation, aerobic bacteria in roots became equilibrium at

10 Log cfu g−1 in all systems under investigation, however, fungi tended to increase until

the end of experiment. The results indicated the unique indigenous microorganisms

population in each soilless system. Also, it revealed that aerobic bacteria could be

dominant over fungi in inorganic substrate culture. With further research of beneficial

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microorganisms to horticultural plants, biological control with reduced fungicide

application in soilless culture would be feasible.

Mutai Bao, Ximing Li et. al. conducted the study entitled “Laboratory study on

Activating Indigenous Microorganisms to enhance oil recovery in Shengli Oilfield”.

Microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) offers an economic alternative to enhanced oil

recovery (EOR). In accordance to the source of the microorganisms used, microbial

enhanced oil recovery can be categorized into two types: injected exogenous

microorganisms or utilized indigenous microorganisms for enhanced oil recovery.

Indigenous microorganisms for MEOR have greater advantages compared to injected

microorganisms. For example, this technology does not need additional injection

instruments for in situ inoculation and the indigenous microorganisms adapt, grow, and

breed more easily in the oil reservoir.

Laboratory studies show the existence of some species of indigenous

microorganisms (mainly bacteria) in crude oil and formation water of S12 block in

Shengli Oilfield, such as Hydrocarbon Degrading Bacteria (HDB), Denitrifying Bacteria

(DNB), methane Producing Bacteria (MPB), Sulfate Reducing Bacteria (SRB), Iron

Bacteria (IB), Sulfur Bacteria (SB), and Total Growth Bacteria (TGB). These indigenous

bacteria are the objective of investigations for the MEOR.

The results of the chemical analyses, bacteriological analyses of the crude oil and

water samples, and the growth and physical simulation experiments are presented. The

results show that the indigenous bacteria beneficial to MEOR can be selectively

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stimulated by nutrient injection while the detrimental bacteria can be restricted to some

extent, enabling oil recovery to be enhanced by 9.14% after the first waterflooding.

“Influence of plant density and time of fertilizer application on the growth

characteristics, nutrient uptake and yield of tomato” is the study that was conducted

by M.O.A. Fawusi. In a factorial experiment to investigate the combined effects of plant

density and time of split application of fertilizer, 4 spacings and 3 fertilizer treatments

were employed. Plant populations were varied between 24,000 and 54,000 per ha. Equal

amounts of NPK were applied in different split applications and at specific physiological

stages.

Time to 50% flowering was delayed by fertilizer application as well as by wide

within-row spacing. Total leaf N and P content declined with all treatments between

flowering and mature-green stage of fruits, but increased again at table-ripe stage. Leaf K

content remained constant throughout the growth period.

Two-split applications of NPK, one at 2 weeks after transplanting to the field and

the other at fruit set, were more beneficial than either no fertilizer or 3-split applications

of equal amount of fertilizer, when the third application was at mature-green stage. This

was indicated by higher fruit yields with 2-split applications.

Highest fruit yields were obtained when tomatoes were planted either at 30.5 cm

× 91 cm single-row spacing, or at 45.5 cm × 122.0 cm, double-row spacing, both giving

36,000 plants per hectare. Fruit yields were reduced at lower and higher population

densities.

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Another study conducted by R.K. Toor, G. Savage, and A. Heeb was entitled as

“Influence of different types of fertilizers on the major antioxidant components of

tomatoes”. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of three different

mineral nutrient solutions (nitrate: ammonium ratios of 4:1 or 1:4), chicken manure and

grass-clover mulch on the major carpometric and antioxidant components of greenhouse

grown tomatoes. The mean plant shoot biomass was significantly higher (P<0.05) for the

plants grown with mineral nutrient solutions (mean plant fresh weight, 1.05 kg) compared

with chicken manure and grass-clover mulch (0.80 kg). However, there was no

significant difference in the yield, dry matter content, or soluble solids of tomatoes grown

with different forms of fertilisers for the duration of the experiment. The titratable acidity

of tomatoes grown with nitrate-dominant solution was significantly lower (P<0.05) than

tomatoes grown with other treatments. The mean total phenolic and ascorbic acid content

of tomatoes grown using chicken manure and grass-clover mulch was 17.6% and 29%

higher, respectively, than the tomatoes grown with mineral nutrient solutions. The mean

lycopene content was 40% lower in tomatoes grown with high chloride levels and grass-

clover mulch (11.5 mg/100 g dry matter) compared with other treatments (19.2 mg/100 g

dry matter). The mean antioxidant activity of the ammonium-treated plants was 14%

lower compared with other treatments. These results show that the nutrient source plays a

major role in determining the levels of titratable acidity and antioxidant components in

tomato.

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Definition of Terms

Ammonium sulfate - an inorganic chemical compound commonly used as a fertilizer

Anaerobic Process - a process from which air or oxygen not in chemical combination is
exuded

Assimilation - the process of assimilating new ideas into an existing cognitive structure

Biochemical - characterized by, produced by, or involving chemical processes in living


organisms

Biogas - a gas produced by the biological breakdown of organic matter in the


absence of sugar

Bio-solids - used by the wade water industry to denote the by product of domestic and
commercial sewage and waste water treatment

Concoction - a combination of fermented rice and brown sugar mixed into a liquid so
they can be used in

Fermentation - the gradual decomposition of organic compounds

Gamut - an entire range or series

Greenhouse- a structure in which temperature and humidity can be controlled for the
cultivation or protection of plants

Growth performance - the development from a seed, germ, or root, to full size or
maturity; increase in size

Nitrogen - a colorless, tasteless, odorless element that as a diatomic gas is relatively inert
and constitutes 78 percent of the atmosphere by volume

No-till - emergent agricultural technique which can increase the amount of water in
the soil and decrease erosion

Salmonella – any of a genus of bacteria that causes food poisoning, typhoid fever
diseases of genital tract

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Soilless culture –artificial means of providing plants with support and as reservoir for
nutrients and water

Yield Performance- the performance of plants in bearing flowers and fruits

Research Paradigm

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO) Growth and Yield Performance of


Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)

Extraneous Variables

 Frequency of watering the plant


 Kind of soil (tandulem soil)
 Tomato variety (Rosanna)
 Environmental conditions
 Age of tomato seedlings at the
beginning of the study

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METHODOLOGY

IMO Collection

One kilogram of milled rice was cooked and cooled. Milled rice was used in this

study because of its high-carbohydrate content which can attract diversity of good

microorganisms. The cooked rice was placed in a plastic box container up to five

centimeters from the lid. It was, then, covered with manila paper and was secured with

rubber band. The covered box was buried in the soil at a depth equivalent to the

containers height under a bamboo grove or where there was a thick accumulation of

decomposing plant residues. The buried box was lined with plastic to avoid entering of

water into the box and was covered with soil. The box was left untouched for five days.

After five days, white molds were formed and the IMO was ready to harvest.

Fermentation and Preparation of IMO Concoction

The rice in the box was transferred to a larger container or plastic pail for

fermentation. Black and blue green molds were lessened through hands with gloves to

lessen the undesirable microorganisms that entered the fermented rice. One kilogram of

brown sugar was added and mixed thoroughly with the rice in the metal pail. Brown

sugar was added to increase the further fermentation of rice to form a concoction. It was

covered with manila paper and was secured with rubber band. It was stored in a secured

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place for seven days to ferment. After seven days, ferment was transferred in plastic

bottle and was labeled as IMO concoction.

Seedling Production

Tomato seeds (Rosanna variety) were sown in a seedling tray initiating a medium

composed of soil. Seeds were scattered unevenly in the tray. Rice straw was placed in the

seedling tray to protect the seeds. After four days, rice straw was removed. Humus soil

was placed in the seedling tray. The seedlings were watered to keep the soil moisture

every day. After 25 days, the seedling was ready for transplanting.

Experimental Design and Treatments

The experiment was laid following the Randomized Complete Block Design

(RCBD) with the following treatments to be replicated three times:

T1-No application of IMO (control)

T2-30mL of IMO concoction per liter of water

T3-40mL of IMO concoction per liter of water

T4-50mL of IMO concoction per liter of water

T5-recommended inorganic fertilizer (140-60-60kg)

Treatments were assigned randomly in the different plots.

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Greenhouse Construction

Before the construction of greenhouse the area had been cleared. The area of the

greenhouse was 5m by 3m. Three bamboo sticks with varying height of 3.5m were placed

in two opposite sides of the greenhouse. The middlemost bamboo sticks with the length

of 4.5 meters were placed at the center. It was covered by mosquito net to avoid the

insects from entering which can cause damage to the plants and to control the

environmental conditions.

Transplanting

One kilogram of Tandelum soil was contained each in black plastic. Tandelum

soil is a reddish ,loose and fine soil which is a perfect soil in growing tomato plants.

There were three replicates having seven black plastic in each treatment. Twenty-five

day-old seedlings were transplanted at the rate of one seedling per black plastic. The

transplanted seedlings were watered and placed in the greenhouse. The seedlings were

assigned randomly and labeled per replicate in each treatment.

Application of IMO Concoction and Inorganic Fertilizer

Concoction was prepared by mixing the IMO in accordance with the treatments in

a liter of distilled water thoroughly prior to application. A sprayer is used as the

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instrument to apply the concoction directly on the soil. The concoction was applied five

days after transplanting with the assigned treatments per replicates.

For Treatment 5, Inorganic Fertilizer using 14-14-14 (Complete Fertilizer) and

Ammonium Sulfate (21-0-0) were applied five days after transplanting at the rate of 140-

60-60kg (N, P2O5, K2O/ha). This is equivalent to 6.25 grams per carton box of 14-14-14

and 4.2 grams of 21-0-0. The two fertilizer materials were mixed and applied in the hole,

five centimeters away from the base of the plant.

The application was done after 5 days. It was applied thrice every ten days in the

experiment.

Other Cultural Management Practices

The plants were watered every morning and afternoon of the day to ensure normal

growth of the plants. Weeds were removed weekly. Insects were removed by hand

picking. There was no spraying of insecticide to avoid killing the IMO.

Harvesting

Yellowish to reddish fruits were harvested through hand-picking with the calyx

still attached. Harvested fruits were counted manually and weighed using 1-kg capacity

balance. The data were recorded per treatment and per replication in a laboratory

notebook. Harvesting was done every week.

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Gathering of Data

The effect of the different treatments on tomato plant was evaluated using the

growth and yield parameters such as plant height, and total number and weight of fruits in

each treatment.

The height of all the plant in each black plastic was measured using a tape

measure from the base up of the plant to the tip of the longest leaf every ten days after

transplanting. Plant height was gathered thrice in the experiment.

The fruits were harvested through hand picking. The number of fruits in each

treatment was counted while the weight of fruits in each treatment was weighed using a

1-kg capacity balance and was recorded.

Cost Analysis

Materials in making IMO concoction and inorganic fertilizers were listed with

their cost. Cost analysis was done by comparing the total cost of the used materials.

Statistical Analysis

All the data gathered were analyzed using SIRICHAI STATISTICS 6, statistical

software following Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in Randomized Complete Block

Design (RCBD). Mean comparison whenever significant mean variations were done

using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% level significance.

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Collection of Indigenous Microorganisms

Fermentation and Preparation of IMO

Concoction
Seedling Production

Construction of the Greenhouse


Fermentation and Preparation of IMO

Concoction
Transplanting

Fermentation and Preparation of IMO


Concoction
Application of IMO Concoction and Inorganic Fertilizer

Harvesting

Gathering of Data

Statistical Analysis

Flow Chart of the Methodology

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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The results of the experiment conducted to determine the effect of indigenous

microorganisms (IMO) in the growth and yield performance of tomato (Lycopersicon

esculentum) were shown in the following parameters that were analyzed using the

Analysis of Variance in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD); average growth

in plant height, total number and weight of harvested fruits. Means were compared using

Duncan’s Multiple Range test at 5% level of significance.

Average Height of Tomato Plants

Plant height of tomatoes was measured every 10 days after the application of the

treatments. Presented in Table 1 is the analyzed data of the average height of plants.

Table 1. Average growth of plants (in centimeters)

Treatments Date of Observation

Day 10 Day 20 Day 30

T1(control) 9.72b 25.19b 41.81a

T2(30mL IMO concoction) 8.91b 23bc 37.95a

T3(40mL IMO concoction) 8.71b 20.62bc 40a

T4(50mL Imo concoction) 9.10b 19.91c 45.71a

T5(inorganic fertilizer) 14.47a 30.24a 51.47a

Means not sharing letter in common differ significantly by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT).

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The results of the application on the height of the tomato are presented in table 1.

On Day 10, tomato plants applied with inorganic fertilizer gave the highest height

compared to the control and treatments applied with IMO Concoction. DMRT supports

further that T5 (inorganic fertilizer) was significantly higher than the rest of the

treatments.

Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed that on Day 20, there was a significant

difference between the treatments. DMRT revealed that plants with inorganic fertilizers

are significantly higher than the other treatments. Treatments 4 (50mL IMO concoction)

and 1 (control) were significantly different from one another. While T2 (30mL IMO

concoction) and T3 (40mL IMO concoction) are comparable to T4 likewise they are

comparable to T1.

However, on the last day of observation, ANOVA showed that at 5% level of

significance, there was no significant difference between the treatments. This implies that

IMO can be substituted to inorganic fertilizers in improving plant height.

According to Joan Puma, plants live in a symbiotic relationship with the soil

microorganisms in the natural environment. The microorganisms produce nutrients,

hormones and antibiotics that plants can absorb in small quantities. Inorganic fertilizers

allow plants to bypass this process, and absorb nutrients directly in larger quantities that

can burn plant roots, especially if the soil is dry.

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Total Number and Weight of Harvested Tomato Fruits

Fruits were harvested in a three-week period. The number of fruits was counted

and weighed using a 1-kg capacity scale. Table 2 and 3 show the total number of fruits

and total weight of fruits, respectively.

Table 2. Total Number of Fruits Harvested per Treatments


Treatments R1 R2 R3 Mean Scores

T1(control) 2 2 1 1.67

T2(30mL IMO concoction) 4 6 5 5.00

T3(40mL IMO concoction) 3 4 7 4.67

T4(50mL IMO concoction) 6 5 5 5.33

T5(inorganic fertilizer) 3 5 8 5.33

Means not sharing letter in common differ significantly by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT).

Table 3. Total weight of Harvested fruit per treatments (in grams)


Treatments R1 R2 R3 Mean Scores

T1(control) 31 33 21 28.33c

T2(30mL IMO concoction) 135 167 150 150.67b

T3(40mL IMO concoction) 115 152 286 184.33ab

T4(50mL IMO concoction) 275 235 223 244.33a

T5(inorganic fertilizer) 140 176 247 188.33ab

Means not sharing letter in common differ significantly by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT).

Treatment 1 was observed to have the least number of harvested fruits per plants.

DMRT also revealed that all treatments were not significantly different.

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Control was observed that it has the lowest ripening rate of fruits which become

an attraction for pest. It was also observed that its fruits are infested by worms. Treatment

3 was infested by aphids.

On the weight of harvested fruits per plants, T4 showed the heaviest harvested

fruits per plants. ANOVA revealed that there was a significant difference between the

treatments. Furthermore, T3 and T5 were comparable to T2 likewise they are comparable

to T4.

Even though, T5 has the same number of fruits to T4, it was observed to have

fruits that are light because they easily ripens than the other treatments. This implies that

plants applied with IMO produced comparable number of fruits to inorganic fertilizers

but were heavier than the plants applied with fertilizers.

Cost Analysis

The table below shows the list of items and cost of IMO and fertilizer.

Table 4. Comparison of expense between Concoction and fertilizers

IMO Concoction Inorganic Fertilizers

Item Cost(peso) Item Cost(peso)

1 kg rice 25 Complete fertilizer 15

1 kg brown sugar 16 Ammonium sulfate 30

Total php41 php45

IMO concoction was comparable to inorganic fertilizers in terms of expense

since IMO is cheaper than the use of inorganic fertilizers. IMO is also used in smaller

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amount than the fertilizers and has a lasting effect because these are natural living

microbes in the soil. On the other hand, inorganic fertilizers are chemicals that are easily

washed away by rain when flooding.

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CONCLUSION

Based on the results obtained in the study, the researchers concluded that:

1. There are improvements in the use of IMO in the tomato production in terms of:

a. plant height

b. total number of fruits in each treatment

c. total weight of plants in each treatment

2. a. There is no significant difference between the treatments on plant height.

b. There is no significant difference between the treatments on the number of

fruits harvested per treatments.

c. T1, T4 (50mL IMO concoction) and T2 (30mL IMO concoction) were

significantly different in the weight of fruits produced. While T5 (inorganic

fertilizers) and T3 (40mL IMO concoction) were comparable to T4 likewise to T2.

3. IMO concoction is comparable to the commercial inorganic fertilizer in terms of

expense.

27
RECOMMENDATIONS

It is suggested that a follow-up investigation be done with concern to the

following recommendations:

 Use of other test plants like eggplant and bell pepper should be used in the

study

 Conduct of the study should be on cool and dry seasons for more

acceptable and meaningful results

 Use of other mediums in cultivating indigenous microorganisms other

than rice like vegetables including mustard

 Make plots for the plants to grow directly to the soil

 Application must be continuous until its time to harvest

28
BIBLIOGRAPHY

Baybayan, A.N.(1982). Performance of five tomato Varieties under CLSU condition. An


undergraduate thesis, CLSU.

Chen, Z., Benzono-Gloria, C. (2005) Compost production: A manual for asian farmers.
Taiwan: food and fertilizer technology center for the asian and pacific region.

De Castro, T. (2005). Angels in our backyard. Organic Matters, 7, pp. 27-29.

Foth, H.D. (1943). Fundamentals of Soil Science. Canada : John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Gardner, V.R. (1942). Basis Horticulture. Mcmillan Book Company: California.

Madrid, A.V. (1981). Fruit setting performance of different tomato varieties/lines during
late rainy season. An undergraduate thesis, CLSU.

Verzosa, R.L. (1976).Response of tomato to the different levels of Sagana 100-


Commercial organic fertilizer. An Undergraduate Thesis, CLSU.

Wyk, B.V. (2005). Food Plants in the World. South Africa : Marshall Cavendish Briza
Publications.

Internet Resources

http://www.ehow.com/about_6523407_excessive-use-inorganic-fertilizers.html

http://www.lawn-care-academy.com/soil-microorganisms.html

http://www.bokashi.co.nz/soil-enhance.htm

http://rversola.wordpress.com/agriculture-2/indigenous_microorganisms-imo/

http://www.reap_canada.com,bio_and_climate_3_4.htm

29
http://www.purefood.org/Toxic/braindamage.cfm

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6V73-
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30
APPENDICES

31
Appendix Table 1. Initial Height of tomato plants in cm

Treatments Replicated Total Mean Scores

1 2 3

1 13.43 14.43 17.86 45.72 15.24

2 13.43 13.43 12.86 39.72 13.24

3 12.43 13.14 13.57 39.14 13.05

4 14 13.29 12.29 39.58 13.19

5 13.14 12.57 13 38.71 12.9

Appendix Table 2. Plant height after 10 days

Treatments Replicate 1 Replicate 2 Replicate 3

T1(control; no application) 11.29 10.29 7.57

T2(30mL IMO concoction) 8.43 8.86 9.43

T3(40mL IMO concoction) 8.14 9.43 8.57

T4(50mL IMO concoction) 5.57 9.43 12.29

T5(inorganic fertilizer) 13.14 16.57 13.71

32
Appendix table 3. Plant height after 20 days

Treatments Replicate 1 Replicate 2 Replicate 3

T1(control; no application) 26.14 24.86 24.57

T2(30ml IMO concoction) 23.86 21 24.14

T3(40ml IMO concoction) 19.86 20.17 21.29

T4(50ml Imo concoction) 15.57 20.29 23.86

T5(inorganic fertilizer) 30.29 36.71 33.71

Appendix Table 4. Plant height after 30 days

Treatments Replicate 1 Replicate 2 Replicate 3

T1(control; no application) 45.29 42.71 37.43

T2(30mL IMO concoction) 38 36.57 39.29

T3(40mL IMO concoction) 39.14 39.29 41.57

T4(50mL IMO concoction) 33.86 58.71 44.57

T5(inorganic fertilizer) 51.14 58.71 44.57

33
Appendix Table 5. Analysis of Variance in terms of Plant height

DAY Source d.f. Sum-of-squares Mean Square F computed F

0.05

Block 2 6.5492 3.2746

Day Treatments 4 70.7804 17.6951 4.46* 3.84

10 Ex. Error 8 31.7327 3.9666

total 14 109.0612 7.7901

Block 2 14.5548 7.2774

Day Treatments 4 365.8000 91.4500 14.66** 3.84

20 Ex. Error 8 49.8947 6.2368

total 14 430.2495 30.7321

Block 2 342.852 171.426

Day Treatments 4 108.7565 27.1891 0.64ns 3.84

30 Ex. Error 8 341.6179 42.7022

total 14 793.2264 56.6590

*-significant
**-highly significant
ns-no significant difference

34
Appendix Table 6. Analysis of Variance for the number and weight of fruits harvested

Source d.f. Sum-of-squares Mean Square F computed F 0.05

Number Block 2 6.4 3.2

of fruits Treatments 4 28.93 7.23 3.17ns 3.84

Ex. Error 8 18.267 2.283

Total 14 53.6 3.8286

Weight Block 2 5624.4 2812.2

of fruits Treatments 4 77781.0667 19445.2667 18.5161** 3.84

Ex. Error 8 18526.9333 2315.8667

Total 14 101932.4 7280.8857

*-significant
**-highly significant
ns -no significant difference

35
DOCUMENTATION

36
Gathering of Materials

Collection of Indigenous Microorganisms

37
Clearing of Unwanted Molds

Preparation of the IMO Concoction

38
Collection of Soil Samples

Seedling Production

39
Construction of Greenhouse

Transplanting

40
Preparation of Treatments and application

Gathering of Data (Plant height)

41
Researchers and their Consultant

42

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