Ateneo de Naga University

Senior High School Department

Fermented Plant Juice Made from Ipomoea batatas (Camote Tops) as

Fertilizer for Brassica rapa (Pechay)

Submitted to the Faculty of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Strand

in partial fulfillment of the requirements in Research in Daily Life II

Marieknoll A. Borromeo

Joyce Suzette T. Cepeda

Melizza C. Magistrado

Danica S. Saluna

Raciela May C. Shea

October 9, 2018
 Fermented Plant Juice Made from Ipomoea batatas (Camote Tops) as Fertilizer for

Brassica rapa (Pechay)

Marieknoll A. Borromeo, Joyce Suzette T. Cepeda, Melizza C. Magistrado, Danica S. Saluna,

Raciela May C. Shea

Abstract

Different concentrations of Fermented Plant Juice made from Ipomoea batatas was prepared and
applied as a soil drench to evaluate its effects on the growth of Brassica rapa. After 35 days, the
Brassica rapa were harvested to count the number of leaves and to measure the height and weight
of the plant. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) one-way was used as statistical treatment in this
study. The results show that the 3% concentration has the highest mean on plant weight and
number of leaves while the 6% concentration on the plant height. However, ANOVA shows that
there is no significant difference between the mean plant parameter in all concentration. The
researchers recommend to conduct further studies about this topic.

Keywords: fermented plant juice, Ipomoea batatas, Brassica rapa, ANOVA

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 Acknowledgment

Several people played an important role in accomplishing our research paper. The

researchers would like to express their gratitude to those who have helped them complete their

research paper, this research would not be possible without the help of these people,

To the Heavenly Father, for guiding us throughout our planting process and who have

given us courage to complete this research paper.

To our Research Adviser, Dra. Ramona S. Renegado, who’s always guiding and

supporting us from the start of our research until the end.

To our beloved parents, for their full support and encouragement in this research.

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 Table of Contents

Abstract 1
Acknowledgment 2
Table of Contents 3
Chapter I 5
INTRODUCTION 5
Background of the Study 5
Statement of the Problem 8
Scope and Delimitation 9
Significance of the Study 10
Chapter II 11
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 11
Organic Fertilizers and its Benefits 11
Fermented Plant Juice in the Philippines 13
Researches on Fermented Plant Juice 13
The Plant Organisms 14
Pechay 14
Camote Tops 15
Synthesis 15
Conceptual Framework 16
CHAPTER III 17
METHODOLOGY 17
Research Design 17
Data Gathering Procedure 17
Pre-experiment 17
Experimental Stage 19
Post-experiment 19
Statistical Treatment 20
CHAPTER IV 21
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 21
Plant Parameters 21
A. Plant Height 21

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 B. Plant Weight 22
C. Number of Leaves 23
CHAPTER V 25
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 25
Summary 25
Conclusion 26
Recommendation 26
BIBLIOGRAPHY 28
APPENDICES 31
APPENDIX A 32
Raw Data 32
APPENDIX B 35
Statistical Treatment 35
Appendix C 38
Documentation 38
Curriculum Vitae 41
Curriculum Vitae 41
Curriculum Vitae 42
Curriculum Vitae 42
Curriculum Vitae 43

4
 Chapter I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Agriculture today subdue most of all land uses. As a result, it has fundamental role in

maintaining the countryside and protecting the environment. The development of the use of

fertilizers and pesticides has dramatically increased the efficiency of food production and has in

face doubled the food production in the last century. However, there are serious consequences to

the use of many of these pesticides and fertilizers and they have resulted in various environmental

problems. The use of fertilizer causes the runoff and evaporation of nutrients as greenhouse gases

especially nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) which leads to environmental problems (Singh et al,

2012).

To address the problem, Organic Agriculture is being introduced. According to FAO/WHO

Codex Alimentarius Commission as cited in Food and Agriculture Organization of the United

Nations, Organic Agriculture is an integrated production management system which promotes and

enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological

activity. It began by limiting the use of chemical fertilizers and insecticides, veterinary drugs and

preservative to consider potential environment and social impacts. Furthermore, according to

Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development

(2006) as cited by Prado and Sampaga (2013), the use of organic fertilizer is one of the

5
recommended approaches to renew the depleted soil and maintaining the fertility level. The crops

respond more to the addition of organic fertilizers than of chemicals.

In the Philippines, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has been promoting the production

of High Value Crops (HVCs) for farmers to earn higher income. These farmers are highly

encouraged that instead of using chemical fertilizers in growing crops, fermented plant products

can be an alternative. This alternative way of fermenting plant products and using it as fertilizer

for crops and vegetation can be a much safer and efficient rather than the use of chemical fertilizers.

This is a system includes how farm wastes are being used as organic fertilizer (Maghirang, 2018).

One of the fertilizers being introduced is Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ). FPJ was produced

by the fermentation of plant leaves, grasses, thinned crop plants, axillary buds and/or young fruits

and flowers (Jensen et al, 2006). It was mixed with brown sugar and after storing for a short period

of time, the juice is extracted and fermented. The brown sugar draws the juices out of the plant

material via osmosis and serves as a food source for the microbes carrying out the fermentation

process. As stated in Business Diary (2018), FPJ is made with Indigenous Microorganism Solution

(IMO) which is a source of bacteria and yeasts to produce organic fertilizer. The liquid is applied

to plant’s leaves and growing points, soil around the plant, compost heap and animal beddings to

fortify microbial activities. Fermented plant juice contains rich nutrients which can be easily

absorbed by plants and bioactive substances that stimulate plant growth. It gives more nitrogen to

plants and enhances the ability of plants to photosynthesize or make their own food. It also gives

additional phosphorus and helps plants absorb more phosphorus from the soil (Pagluanan, 2010).

6
 Brassica rapa (belonging to the Chinensis group) is a leafy, shallow rooted, cool season

crop but can stand higher temperatures given it is exposed to enough moisture. Growth of this

plant is satisfactory given that its growing medium contains enough nitrogen, and potassium. In

about four to five weeks, they are mature and ready for harvest. (Padilla and Paasa, 2011). In the

Philippines, it is locally known as pechay. Pechay is always available to market anytime of the

year so it is one of the favorite vegetables of people. It is also one of the essential for Filipino food.

It is a leafy vegetable rich in calcium and other important nutrients (Jimenez et al, 2009). To

preserve the nutritional value of pechay, it is usually eaten raw. It is a great source of income

because it can thrive even in a limited area with vertical gardening with the use of plastic container

(Prado and Sampaga, 2013).

Traditionally, the main reason why farmers produce Ipomoea batatas is because of its

tubers. Its tubers are commonly consumed by Filipinos as an alternative for rice because it is high

in carbohydrates. Meanwhile, the foliage of Ipomoea batatas is usually cooked and mixed with

soup dishes. But mostly, it is considered as a waste material. (Ruiz et al, n.d.).

Hence, the objective of this study is to utilize the use of Ipomoea batatas leaves as a

fertilizer by fermenting it and to test its effectivity on the growth of the Brassica rapa. In this way,

the plant waste material can be lessened, and the use of organic fertilizers can be promoted.

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Statement of the Problem

This study aims to find out if the Fermented Plant Juice made from Ipomoea batatas is

effective as fertilizer on the growth of Brassica rapa and to determine its most effective

concentration of solution as fertilizer. Specifically, the purpose of this study was to answer these

following questions:

1. What is the effect of Fermented Plant Juice fertilizer made from Ipomoea batatas on the

growth of Brassica rapa along the

a. Height of plant

b. Number of leaves

c. Weight of plant

2. What is the most effective percentage of solution of Fermented Plant Juice made from

Ipomoea batatas used as fertilizer for Brassica rapa?

3. Is there a significant difference in the growth of Brassica rapa at different concentrations of

Fermented Plant Juice fertilizer?

Hypothesis of the Study

There is no significant difference between the height, number of leaves and weight of

Brassica rapa applied with the different concentrations of Fermented Plant Juice made from

Ipomoea batatas.

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Scope and Delimitation

This study covered the effectiveness of the Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) made from

Ipomoea batatas as fertilizer on Brassica rapa. The focus of this study is to determine the effect

of FPJ in different concentrations (independent variable) on the number of leaves and the weight

and height of the Brassica rapa (dependent variables). Also, this study dealt with identifying the

most effective concentration. In addition, the control variables are the type of soil, amount of

sunlight and the amount of solution to be watered on Brassica rapa.

The making of Fermented Plant Juice as well as the planting of Brassica rapa was done on

August 2018 in Calabanga, Camarines Sur. Meanwhile, the data gathering was done on September

2018.

The determination of the effectiveness of Fermented Plant Juice as fertilizer was only

limited to the stated dependent variables and did not cover the roots and the duration of the growth

of Brassica rapa.

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Significance of the Study

Fertilizers improve the natural supply of soil nutrient and produces soil fertility to meet the

demand of crops with a high yield potential (IFA, 2018). However, some of the fertilizers are

chemical-based which have bad effects on the people and the environment. Studying the

Fermented Plant Juice as fertilizer on the Brassica rapa will benefit the following:

Farmers. Farmers will know about this alternative fertilizer and they can use this in their crops

instead of using chemical fertilizer. They can spare money from buying commercial fertilizers.

Environment. This fertilizer is from organic sources that are environment-friendly. This will not

bring deterioration to the soil and to the environment.

Future Researchers. This research can serve as a baseline in doing their own study.

Academe. This research may supplement their knowledge about the organic fertilizer, Fermented

Plant Juice.

Department of Agriculture. This research may serve as their basis in doing further studies about

FPJ.

Community. Through this research, the community will know about the organic fertilizer and they

may use this on their plants in their houses.

Plant Industries. Plant industries may use FPJ as a fertilizer to boost the growth of their crops.

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 Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter provides an overview of previous research regarding fermented plant juice

(FPJ) being used as a fertilizer on plants. This also deals with the research design and the

conceptual framework for the quantitative, experimental study that contains the main focus that

was discussed in this study and to fully understand the research done.

Organic Fertilizers and its Benefits

Organic fertilizer refers to materials used as fertilizer that occur regularly in nature, usually

as a by-product or end-product of a naturally occurring process. Organic fertilizers such as manure

have been used in agriculture for thousands of years. Furthermore, organic fertilizers are sustained

sources of nutrients due to slow release during decomposition. By increasing soil organic matter,

organic farming can reinstate the natural fertility of the damaged soil, which will improve the crop

productivity to feed the growing population. Organic fertilizers enhance the natural soil processes,

which have long-term effects on soil fertility. Nowadays, interest in organic farming is already

growing worldwide as sustainable agricultural practice. (Singh, 2012).

In addition, according to Singh and Siataramaiah (1970); Hoitink and Boehn (1999);

Bulluck and Ristaino (2002), organic fertilizers increase the microbial act in soil, anion and cation

exchange capacity, organic matter and carbon-content of soil. Organic fertilizers increase the yield

and quality of agricultural crops in ways like inorganic fertilizers. The report of Adebayo and

Akoun (2000) and Moyin-Jesu (2007) stated that organic manures supported crop growth

11
performance and increased crop yield. In the study of Xu et al. (2005) revealed that the yield and

quality of leafy vegetables grown with organic fertilizers grew better and resulted in a higher total

yield than those grown with chemical fertilizers. The study of Yanar D., Gebologlu N. et al., (2011)

stated that organic fertilizers provided better yield than the chemical fertilizers. They contributed

to a better and more balanced nutrient supply. According to Gonzales, Caralde, and Aban (2015),

the application of organic fertilizer greatly enhanced growth and yield performance of pechay. The

application of organic fertilizer in pechay specifically, compost, is recommended since it

influences its growth and yield, especially on the leaf area and fresh weight.

Fermented Plant Juice as Fertilizer

According to Han (2009) as stated by Reddy (2011), fermented plant juice (FPJ) is a

fermented extract of the plant’s blood and chlorophylls. Brown sugar is used to extract the essence

through osmotic pressure. Therefore, FPJ is a rich enzyme solution full of these bacteria; making

the plants and animals to grow fast. The Agricultural Training Institute (2011) stated that FPJ is as

a natural growth enhancer, made from actively growing plant parts and fast-growing plants may

contain natural growth hormones and mineralized nitrogen that promotes plant growth. Applying

FPJ to the soil will make it serve as source of energy to accelerate activities of soil microorganism.

This activity will make the nutrients available to the plants. The study of Solraya (2010) stated that

the part of the plants used for this fermentation is the shoot because it is the part that stores a high

percentage of nutrients coming from the soil and from the atmosphere. Moreover, plants used for

FPJ are those that are fast growing because regeneration of a new part of the plant will only take

effect a few hours. According to Racoma et al. (2017), fermented plant juice offers more nitrogen

to plants and improves the ability of plants to make their own food. It also gives supplementary

12
phosphorus and helps plants absorb more phosphorus from the soil. Hence, the use of FPJ could

promote vegetative growth and increase the volume and size of crops.

Fermented Plant Juice in the Philippines

The passage of Philippine Republic Act 10068, otherwise known as the “Organic

Agriculture Act of 2010” which endorses natural farming technology using local materials such as

fermented plant juices (FPJ) in agricultural production, demands the identification of various cost-

effective, safe and eco-friendly sources of nutrients for organic crop production.

With this, the Department of Agriculture (DA) of the Philippines has been promoting the

production of High Value Crops (HVCs) in order farmers to earn higher income. These farmers

are being encouraged to use fermented plant goods in growing their crops. This is much safer and

efficient instead of using chemical fertilizers (Maghirang, 2018).

Researches on Fermented Plant Juice

In the study of Racoma et al (2017), the application of fermented plant juice made from

banana pseudostem + wedelia (Wedelia trilobata) leaves gave the highest performance in terms of

stem diameter and with interaction of variety and fertilizer in terms of weight of fruits per plant,

computed yield per hectare. They recommend the use of this organic fertilizer as it significantly

affected the growth of hot pepper. Also, according to the findings of the study of Juane (2004),

which says that applying fermented plant juice (FPJ) to pechay plants will promote good plant

growth and vitality. This is like the study of Tagotong and Corpuz (2015) which stated that that

13
using FPJ will result to higher level of factors plant growth such as plant height, number of plant

leaves and yield of pechay.

In the recommendations of Juane (2004), mixing 1 tbsp of FPJ per liter of natural water

will have a very convening result on the plant growth and its vitality. He stated that it increases

the holding capacity of the farm, thus improving the physical and biological properties of the soil.

This contrasts with the study of Tagotong and Corpuz (2015) which recommends 6 tbsp of FPJ

per liter of water as fertilizer. He suggested that, the higher concentration of FPJ diluted on water,

the better the growth and development of pechay plants as it emphasizes the development of the

physical and biological properties of the soil. According to Gonzales et al. (2015), most of the

farmers use inorganic fertilizers but because it incurs high cost and its limited supply, the farmers

are adapting the use of organic fertilizer even its preparation is laborious.

The Plant Organisms

Pechay

Brassica rapa (belonging to the Chinensis group) is a leafy, shallow rooted, cool season

crop but can stand higher temperatures if it is given enough moisture. The growth of this plant

will improve if its growing medium have enough nitrogen and potassium. The harvest time is four

to five weeks after it was planted. (Padilla, 2011). Furthermore, according to Corpuz and Tagotong

(2015), pechay is one of the common leafy vegetable crops grown in the Philippines. Brassica

rapa belongs to the Brassiceae family and it is also known as one of the oldest green vegetables

in Asia. Pechay is used mainly for its immature, but fully expanded leaves. It is one of the common

14
crops in our country because of its use in Filipino soup and dishes and it takes shorter time to be

harvested compared to other vegetables. It therefore plays an important role in the Philippine

economy as well as in the nutrition of the Filipino people.

Camote Tops

Ipomoea batatas, commonly known as sweet potato, is an extremely versatile and delicious

vegetable that possesses high nutritional value. It is a common root crop in the Philippines. Its

tubers commonly used as a substitute for rice, which is a staple food of Filipinos, as it contains

carbohydrates as much a rich have. Its leaves are cooked with the Filipino dishes with soups.

However, it is usually treated as a plant waste material (Research Gate, 2015).

Synthesis

Usage of fertilizers in growing crops are common in agricultural setting because they help

in the growth of plants. Organic fertilizer is much safer to the environment than chemical

fertilizers. According to Gonzales, Caralde, and Aban (2015), the application of organic fertilizer

greatly enhances growth and yield performance of pechay. The use of organic fertilizer in pechay

specifically, compost is recommended since it influence its growth and yield, especially on the leaf

area and fresh weight. The report of Adebayo and Akoun (2000) and Moyin-Jesu (2007) stated

that organic manures supported crop growth performance and increased crop yield. In the study of

Xu et al (2005) revealed that the yield and quality of leafy vegetables growth with organic

fertilizers grew better and resulted in a higher total yield than those grown with chemical fertilizers.

As stated by Racoma et al (2017), Juane (2004), and Tagotong & Corpuz (2015), fermented plant

juice has a significant effect on plant growth. However, these studies differ on the plants that were

15
applied of fermented plant juice and the plant used in making the fermented plant juice. This study,

therefore, aims to use Ipomoea batatas for creating fermented plant juice to see its effect on the

growth of Brassica rapa.

Conceptual Framework

Fermented Plant Juice made

Growth of Brassica rapa
from Ipomoea batatas
(pechay)
• Control
• Height
• 3%
• Number of leaves
• 6%
• Weight
• 9%

Fig. 1 Conceptual Framework

The goal of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Fermented Plant Juice made

from Ipomoea batatas as fertilizer on Brassica rapa. The Fermented Plant Juice is the independent

variable in this study with different concentrations. The Brassica rapa is the dependent variable.

Fermented Plant Juice was diluted to formulate different concentrations such as 0%, 3%, 6% and

9% to apply as a soil drench on Brassica rapa. The height, number and size leaves and weight

were measured. The mean of each dependent variables for different concentrations was computed

and was analyzed if they are significantly different with each other. This will determine the

effectiveness of the fermented plant juice as a fertilizer.

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 CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

This chapter will provide the overview on what methods was used in conducting this study.

The first section deals with what type of research is used in this study. The second one presents

the specific stages on how the data was gathered. The last one explains the data analysis and what

statistical treatment was used.

Research Design

This study was designed as a quantitative research, aimed to determine if the fermented

camote tops juice is effective as fertilizer for Brassica rapa and to find out the most effective

percentage of solution as fertilizer.

Among the types of Quantitative Research, this study used Experimental Research because

it sought to determine the relationship between the two variables which is the dependent (weight,

height and number and size of leaves) and the independent variable (Fermented Plant Juice).

Data Gathering Procedure

Pre-experiment

The pre-experiment stage consists 3 sub-stages: Production of Fermented Plant Juice,

Formulation of Different Concentrations of FPJ and Preparation of the Land.

a. Production of Fermented Plant Juice

This procedure for creating fermented plant juice was adapted from Agricultural Technical

Institute (2011). The materials used in making fermented plant juice were the following: camote

17
tops, brown sugar, basin, cloth bag, large waterproof container and cloth and rubber band. The

researchers gathered 2 kg of Ipomoea batatas before the sunrise while the microorganisms are still

present. They cut the plant materials into small pieces and put the chopped plant materials into the

basin. They added 2 kg of sugar and mixed the raw materials thoroughly with hands. They placed

the materials into the waterproof container, concealed it with a piece of cloth and rubber band.

They stored the container in a place away from artificial and natural light and away from extreme

hot and cold temperature. After 7 days, they squeezed the plant materials to extract the plant juice.

They collected the fermented plant juice and stored it in a jar.

b. Formulation of the different concentrations of Fermented Plant Juice

The fermented plant juice was mixed with water. This solution served as the

fertilizer for Brassica rapa. Using measuring spoons, the researchers measured the amount of

fermented plant juice to be diluted to 1 liter of water. For the preparation of 3%, 6% and 9%

solution, the researchers added 30 mL, 60 mL and 90 mL of fermented plant juice respectively to

1 liter of water. For the 0% solution, pure water was used. The concentrations used in this study

were adapted from the study of Tagotong and Corpuz (2015).

c. Preparation of the Plot for Planting

The researchers harrowed and removed the weeds on the soil before planting the seeds of

Brassica rapa. They prepared 4 columns and 10 rows of holes on the soil for the planting.

18
Experimental Stage

a. Planting and Maintenance of Pechay

In conducting the study, the researchers planted 40 Brassica rapa. This was divided into 4

groups and will be watered with different percentage of solution of fermented plant juice (0%, 3%,

6% and 9%). The Brassica rapa plants was watered with 15 mL of their respective concentration

fermented plant juice during Mondays and Thursdays during afternoon. On the other days, 15 mL

of pure water was used to water to all groups of Brassica rapa.

After 35 days, the height of each gathered pechay and the size of its leaves were estimated

utilizing a ruler. A basic spring balance was utilized as a part of weighing the heaviness of each

pechay plant. The quantity of leaves was counted physically by the researchers. The methods for

the tallness, number and size of leaves and weight of gathered Brassica rapa were ascertained

independently.

Post-experiment

After the experiment, the analysis of data was conducted by the researchers. The cleaning

of the area where the Brassica rapa were planted was done. The pechay plants were given to the

people who are living in Calabanga, where the gathering of data was conducted, for it to be still

useful even after the experiment.

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Statistical Treatment

The statistical treatment used in this study is the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) one-way

treatment. This treatment was used because this statistical treatment will determine if there is a

significant difference between the means of the dependent variables. In this study, the researchers

want to find out if there is a significant difference on the average of number and size of leaves,

height and weight of Brassica rapa applied with fermented plant juice. It is one-way because this

study only has one factor which affected the dependent variables and that is the fermented plant

juice.

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 CHAPTER IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

In this chapter, the results from the conducted experiment are presented here. These data

are furthered explained by stating its interpretation in the discussion. Moreover, the implications

of the results in the future and the limitations of the study will also be tackled here. The findings

of the study will also be compared to other previous studies by its similarities and differences.

Three research questions guided the study. The first question is about the effect of the

fermented plant juice along the plant height, plant weight and the number of leaves of Brassica

rapa. Tables are used to show the means in each plant parameter in their respective concentrations

of fermented plant juice.

Plant Parameters

A. Plant Height

Table 1. Data on average height of pechay applied with different concentrations of fermented plant
juice

Concentrations of FPJ Mean Height of Brassica rapa

Control Group 13.4

3% 14.9

6% 14.2

9% 12.28

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 The findings in the plant height show that the group with the highest mean height is the

one applied 3% concentration while the plants with 9% concentration has the lowest one. However,

Analysis of Variance shows that all the mean heights do not have a significant difference with each

other. The obtained f-value is 1.35 and it is lesser than the f critical which is 2.87. This means that

null hypothesis should be accepted. This is similar to the study of Gonzales, Caralde, and Aban

(2015) that among the treatments of organic fertilizer applied, none of these are significantly

different with each other in terms of the height of Brassica rapa. Furthermore, the study explained

that the nutrients of organic fertilizer such as nitrogen, phosphorus or potassium are slowly

discharged over a period of time. This means that there is a less possibility that plants can reach

the nutrients in the soil. A small amount of the nutrients can be only available to the crop in the

preceding years. The harvest period of Brassica rapa is four to five weeks and the nutrients

provided by the fermented plant juice is not somehow not yet available.

B. Plant Weight
Table 2. Data on average weight of pechay applied with different concentrations of fermented plant juice

Concentrations of FPJ Mean Weight of Brassica rapa

Control Group 7.675

3% 8.4

6% 10.427

9% 6.2

The table shows that the 6% group obtained the highest mean weight while the 9% group

has the lowest one. The 6% concentration seems better in making the weight of Brassica rapa but

22
in Analysis of Variance, all the means of the groups are equal. The null hypothesis is accepted

because the obtained f-value which is 1.15 is lower than the f critical which 2.87. This is different

with the study of Tagotong and Corpuz (2015) which states that the three levels of application

significantly differ its other. The concentration with the highest mean plant weight is the 6%.

C. Number of Leaves
Table 3. Data on average number of leaves of pechay applied with different concentrations of fermented
plant juice

Concentrations of FPJ Mean Number of leaves of Brassica rapa

Control Group 5.8

3% 6.4

6% 6.1

9% 5.9

The table shows that 3% group obtained the highest average of number of leaves while the

control group has the lowest one. This means that the fermented plant juice influences the number

of leaves of Brassica rapa. However, in the Analysis of Variance, the acquired f-value which is

0.40 is lesser than the f critical which 2.87 so the null hypothesis is accepted. This means that the

averages are statistically equal with each other. The same result is also seen in the study of

Gonzales, Caralde, and Aban (2015) that there is no significant difference on the number of leaves

of Brassica rapa applied with different organic fertilizers. It is interpreted that the nutrients of

organic fertilizer can be usable only after following years because these nutrients are gradually

released over a period. In the case of this study, Brassica rapa is harvested within 35 days so it

cannot use the nutrients fully.

23
 All the results about all plant parameters are contrary to the study of Tagotong and Corpuz

(2015) which states that the highest concentration of FPJ will yield to better development of the

plant. In the results, it shows that the group applied with 9% solution is has the lowest mean in the

aspect of plant height and plant weight. While in the number of leaves, it is second to the last which

has the mean of 5.9. While the plants are still planted, this group is the most infected with pests in

all the groups. This situation affected the height, weight and the number of leaves. In the study of

Llamelo et al (2016), it is shown that the fermented plant juice has a low resistance on worms.

This implies that when using fermented plant juice as fertilizer on plants, it is recommended to use

pesticides to control its occurrence. In this way, the plants can have a better growth performance.

Based on the data gathered, it can be concluded that the fermented plant juice has effect on

the growth of Brassica rapa. The concentrations of 3% and 6% fermented plant juice have higher

means in the plant height and weight and the number of leaves than the one in the control group.

This means that the fertilizer enhanced growth of Brassica rapa. Moreover, the 3% concentration

has the most effect on the growth of Brassica rapa since the plant applied with it is the best in

plant height and number of leaves and is second on the plant weight aspect. This shows that it is

the most effective solution of fermented plant juice. However, in the Analysis of Variance, it is

found out all the concentrations of fermented plant juice has no significant difference on the plant

height, plant weight and number of leaves of Brassica rapa.

24
 CHAPTER V

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter is all about the summary, conclusion and recommendations of the researchers.

The summary is composed of the aim, the methodology used, the findings of this study. For the

conclusion, this will include the reflections in doing this research, the shortcomings and the

significance of this. The specific actions to be done and the question how the findings in this study

will be utilized will be discussed in the recommendations.

Summary
This study aims to determine the effect of Fermented Plant Juice made from camote tops

on the growth of Brassica rapa along the number of leaves, height and weight of the plant. This

study also aims to find out its most effective concentration as a fertilizer and to determine if there

is a significant difference in the growth of Brassica rapa.

This study is a quantitative, experimental type of research which uses experiments to gather

numerical data. Experiments were conducted by formulating four different concentrations of

fermented plant juice (3%, 6%, and 9%). There is a control group which was watered with pure

water. The fermented plant juice was applied as a soil drench twice a week and after 35 days, the

researchers harvested the Brassica rapa. They measured the weight and height of the plant and

counted the leaves. They used Analysis of Variance one-way as the statistical treatment.

25
 Findings show that 3% concentration dominated the other groups in terms of plant height

and number of leaves while the 6% concentration tops in terms of plant weight. However, the

Analysis of Variance reveals that all the groups do not have a significant difference in terms of

plant height, plant weight and number of leaves with each other.

Conclusion
The findings that were presented is not the results the researchers were expecting. First, all

the gathered related literature states that the most effective solution is the highest one while in the

study, it is the 3% concentration. Second, in the aspect of plant weight, this study differs on other

researches that applying fermented plant juice has a significant difference on it while it showed

that it has no significant difference on the plant growth. The use of fermented plant juice and other

organic fertilizers has many benefits not only on the environment but also to the farmers who are

the ones that provides food to the population. Conducting further studies about organic fertilizer

may lead to new discovery on how to make it more effective. It is much better to give more time

in doing these kinds of research because there are many people who will benefit from it.

Recommendation
The recommendations are suggested based on the findings and conclusions. First

suggestion is the use of fermented camote tops as fertilizer in pechay production. The result of the

study showed the application of fermented plant juice enhanced the yield and growth performance

of the pechay. It is advised to conduct the study with the same variables, but the sample size should

be bigger to obtain a more reliable result. It is also recommended to conduct further studies to test

the efficacy of fermented plant juice as fertilizer on plants. Also, it is suggested to use different

plant to create fermented plant juice since its advocacy is to use what is available in the locality.

26
DEFINITION OF TERMS

a. Dilute - make a liquid thinner or weaker by adding water or another solvent it. In this study,
dilute means adding of water to the specific amount of FPJ.
b. Ferment - Ferment is to change chemically through the action of living substances, such
as yeast of bacteria, of to use a substance to produce a chemical change. In this study,
ferment refers to the change of camote tops to become a fertilizer.
c. Fermented Plant Juice - Fermented Plant Juice is an extract of plant’s chlorophyll. In this
study, fermented plant juice refers to the fertilizer used to enhance the growth of Brassica
rapa.
d. Fertilizer - A chemical or natural substance added to soil or land to increase its fertility.
In this study, fertilizer serves as the independent variable where in it boosts the growth of
Brassica rapa.
e. Growth – The physical changes that can be measured or observed during the experiment.
In this study, the growth of Brassica rapa is based on its weight and height and the number
of its leaves.
f. Organic Fertilizer - An organic fertilizer is a plant fertilizer that is derived from organic
sources. Organic fertilizers can range from organic compost to cow manure, but they must
be derived from all-organic sources. In this study, organic fertilizer comes from camote
tops materials to formulate the fermented plant juice.
g. Solution - A liquid mixture in which the minor component (the solute) is uniformly
distributed within the major component (the solvent). In this study, solution refers to the
different quantity of fermented juice that will be put into the plant.
h. Soil Drench - a specific technique of applying a diluted chemical pesticide, herbicide,
fungicide, or even fertilizer to a plant or tree, or to a specific group of plants, rather than
the entire garden. In this study, soil drench refers to the specific application of FPJ to
Brassica rapa.

27
 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Agricultural Training Institute (2011). Fermented Plant Juice. Retrieved July 13, 2018 from
www.e-extension.gov.ph.

Corpuz, O. S. (2015). Bio-organic Fertilizer on Pechay, Homegarden in Cotabato. Turkish Journal

Agriculture and Forestry. doi: 10.11648/j.ajafs.2015030601.12

DeJohn, S., Whitman, A. (n.d.). The Benefit of Organic Fertilizers. Organic Gardening For
Dummies, 2nd Ed. Retrieved from https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/gardening/organic-
gardening/the-benefits-of-organic-fertilizers/

Gonzales L. R., Caralde R. A., & Aban M. L. (2015). Response of Pechay (Brassica Napus L.) to
Different Levels of Compost Fertilizer. International Journal of Scientific and Research
Publication, 5(02), 1-4.

Juane, C.G. (2004). Pechay in the Philippines. Agri review 14. Pp. 307

Jimenez et al (2009). Pechay Production Guide. Retrieved from

http://bpi.da.gov.ph/bpi/images/Production_guide/pdf/PECHAY%20.pdf

Korean Natural Farming - Fermented Plant Juice. Rooftop Ecology’s Blog. Retrieved from
www.rooftopecology.wordpress.com

Maghirang, R. G. (2017). Organic Fertilizers from Farm Waste Adopted by Farmers in the
Philippines.
Retrieved from http://www.fftc.agnet.org/library.php?func=view&id=20110804162833

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Tagotong, M.B. and Corpuz, O. (2015). Bio-organic Fertilizer on Pechay Homegarden in
Cotabato.
American Journal of Agriculture and Forestry. Special Issue: Agro-Ecosystems. Vol. 3,
No. 6-1, 2015, pp. 6-9. doi: 10.11648/j.ajaf.s.2015030601.12

Padilla (2011). COMPARISON OF “TREATMENT POTENTIAL” OF BAKING SODA,

GARLIC AND VINEGAR ON APHIDS Retrieved from
https://studylib.net/doc/9783484/growth-characteristics-of-pechay

Pagluanan, E. R. (2010). Growth and yield performance of different vegetables applied with
organic fertilizers. Retrieved July 3, 2018, from http://agris.fao.org/agris search/search.do?

Prado, J. A. and Sampaga, L (2013). Response of Pechay (Brassica rapa) to Organic Fertilizer
Under DMMMSU-NLUC Condition, La Union, Philippines. E – International Scientific
Research Journal. ISSN 2094 - 1749.

Reddy, R. (2011). Cho’s Global Natural Farming. South Asia Rural Reconstruction Association
(SARRA): Karnataka India

Racoma, et. al. (2017). Citation: Growth and Yield Performance of Hot Pepper (Capsicum
frutescens) Fertilized with Fermented Plant Materials. International Journal of Advanced
Research (IJAR). 10.21474/IJAR01/5503

Regionel, P. A. (2015). Quantitative Methods: Meaning and Characteristics. Retrieved from

https://simplyeducate.me/2015/01/03/quantitative-methods-meaning-and-characteristics/

Sarkar et al (1993). HortScience. vol. 28no. 5 522 from

https://www.herbcottage.com.au/kang-kong.html.

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Singh. 2012. ISBN 978-1-62081-422-2, Publisher: Nova Science Inc., New York. from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/274896698_Organic_Fertilizers_Types_Produc
tion_a
nd_Environmental_Impact

Solraya. (2010). Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ). Retrieved July 10, 2018 from
http://solraya.blogspot.com/2010/09/fermented-plant-juice-fpj.html

Hashshashin. (2010). Fermented Plant Extracts.The Farmer. Retrieved July 10, 2018 from
https://www.thcfarmer.com/community/threads/fermented-plant-extracts-and-making-
your-own-nutrient-line.18772/

Yanar D., Gebologly N., Yanar Y. Aydin M., & Cakmak P. (2011). Effect of Different Organic
Ferilizers on Yield and Fruit Quality of Indeterminate Tomato (lycopersican esculentum).
Scientific Research and Essays, 6(17), pp. 3623-3628

Ruiz M., D Pezo & L Martinez. (n.d.). THE USE OF SWEET POTATO (Ipomoea batatas, (L.)
Lam) IN ANIMAL FEEDING I AGRONOMIC ASPECTS Retrieved from
http://www.fao.org/livestock/agap/frg/TAP52/5_2_7.pdf

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) - A Valuable Medicinal Food: A Review. Retrieved
fromhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/263096030_Sweet_Potato_Ipomoea_batatas_L_L
am_-_A_Valuable_Medicinal_Food_A_Review

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APPENDICES

31
 APPENDIX A
Raw Data

• Number of Leaves

NO FPJ 3% 6% 9%

1 5 9 8 5

2 6 7 7 4

3 5 7 6 6

4 5 8 7 7

5 4 5 6 8

6 7 6 6 6

7 4 5 5 7

8 9 5 5 5

9 7 5 6 6

10 6 7 5 5

TOTAL: 58 64 61 59

Mean: 5.8 6.4 6.1 5.9

32
• Height

NO FPJ 3% 6% 9%

1 17.3 cm 16.1 cm 18 cm 11 cm

2 13.3 cm 12 cm 11 cm 14.3 cm

3 14.2 cm 14 cm 19 cm 10.2 cm

4 13.3 cm 17.5 cm 21.5 cm 11.8 cm

5 15.2 cm 19.4 cm 12.5 cm 15 cm

6 11.4 cm 16 cm 13 cm 10.3 cm

7 14.5 cm 14 cm 10 cm 12.8 cm

8 9 cm 14 cm 19 cm 11.1 cm

9 11.3 cm 12.5 cm 11 cm 15 cm

10 14.5 cm 13.5 cm 7 cm 11.3 cm

TOTAL: 134 149 142 122.8

Mean: 13.4 14.9 14.2 12.28

33
• Weight of the Plant

NO FPJ 3% 6% 9%

1 11.45 g 9.21 g 32.72 g 4.60 g

2 5.76 g 10.99 g 15.06 g 7.88 g

3 6.19 g 5.95 g 12.04 g 6.44 g

4 15.11 g 10.48 g 21.36 g 4.15 g

5 10.61 g 7.89 g 6.04 g 8.56 g

6 4.93 g 7.78 g 3.20 g 5.52 g

7 5.04 g 11.79 g 5.77 g 6.85 g

8 9.28 g 5.86 g 3.58 g 8.87 g

9 2.75 g 4.13 g 3.18 g 4.60 g

10 5.63 g 9.92 g 1.32g 4.53 g

TOTAL: 76.75 g 84 g 104.27 g 62 g

Mean: 7.675 g 8.4 g 10.427 g 6.2 g

34
 APPENDIX B
Statistical Treatment

Plant Height

Ho: There is no significant difference on the height of the Brassica rapa applied with different
concentrations.
Ha: There is a significant difference on the height of the Brassica rapa applied with different
concentrations.

SUMMARY

Groups Count Sum Average Variance

NO FPJ 10 134 13.4 5.477778

0.02 10 149 14.9 5.357778

0.04 10 142 14.2 23.12222

0.06 10 122.8 12.28 3.512889

ANOVA

Source of Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit

Between Groups 37.963 3 12.65433 1.350852 0.273308 2.86626

Within Groups 337.236 36 9.367667

Total 375.199 39

Decision: Accept Ho

35
Plant Weight

Ho: There is no significant difference on the height of the Brassica rapa applied with different
concentrations.
Ha: There is a significant difference on the height of the Brassica rapa applied with different
concentrations.

SUMMARY

Groups Count Sum Average Variance

NO FPJ 10 67.75 6.775 13.35761

0.02 10 84 8.4 6.313844

0.04 10 104.27 10.427 101.7862

0.06 10 62 6.2 3.174978

ANOVA

Source of Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit

Between Groups 107.8115 3 35.93718 1.15338 0.340907 2.866266

Within Groups 1121.693 36 31.15815

Total 1229.505 39

Decision: Accept Ho

36
Number of leaves of the Brassica rapa

Ho: There is no significant difference on the height of the Brassica rapa applied with different
concentrations.
Ha: There is a significant difference on the height of the Brassica rapa applied with different
concentrations.

SUMMARY

Groups Count Sum Average Variance

NO FPJ 10 58 5.8 2.4

0.02 10 64 6.4 2.044444

0.04 10 61 6.1 0.988889

0.06 10 59 5.9 1.433333

ANOVA

Source of Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit

Between Groups 2.1 3 0.7 0.407767 0.748344 2.866266

Within Groups 61.8 36 1.716667

Total 63.9 39

Decision: Accept Ho

37
 Appendix C
Documentation

➢ After planting the Brassica rapa (pechay)

➢ 1 week after the Brassica rapa (pechay) was planted

38
➢ After 3 ½ weeks, the Brassica rapa (pechay) was harvested.

➢ Measuring the Brassica rapa (pechay)

39
40
 Curriculum Vitae

CONTACT INFORMATION
Name: Marieknoll Borromeo
Address: Pagatpat, Calabanga, Camarines Sur
Cell Phone: 09070954523
Email: maborromeo@gbox.adnu.edu.ph

FAMILY BACKGROUND
Father’s Name: Arnulfo A. Borromeo
Mother’s Name: Marites A. Borromeo

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: Dominican School of Calabanga
Junior High School: Dominican School of Calabanga

Curriculum Vitae

CONTACT INFORMATION
Name: Joyce Suzette Cepeda
Address: Cathedral St. Ateneo Ave. Naga City
Cell Phone: 09063178324
Email: jscepeda@gbox.adnu.edu.ph

FAMILY BACKGROUND
Father’s Name: Isagani B. Cepeda
Mother’s Name: Mesusa T. Cepeda

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: Naga Central I
Junior High School: Pambuhan National High School

41
 Curriculum Vitae

CONTACT INFORMATION
Name: Melizza C. Magistrado
Address: Sta. Isabel, Iriga City, Camarines Sur
Cell Phone: 09354012191
Email: magistradomelizza@gmail.com

FAMILY BACKGROUND
Father’s Name: Melchor B. Magistrado
Mother’s Name: Marilyn C. Magistrado

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: St. Jude Montessori Educational Center of La Union
Junior High School: Sagrada National High School

Curriculum Vitae

CONTACT INFORMATION
Name: Danica S. Saluna
Address: Modern Village Subdivision, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur
Cell Phone: 09213157829
Email: dasaluna@gbox.adnu.edu.ph

FAMILY BACKGROUND
Father’s Name: Ben P. Saluna
Mother’s Name: Jovelita S. Saluna

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: Naga City Montessori School
Junior High School: Ateneo De Naga University Junior High School

42
 Curriculum Vitae

CONTACT INFORMATION
Name: Raciela May C. Shea
Address: San Isidro, Calabanga, Camarines Sur
Cell Phone: 09771575934
Email: rmshea@gbox.adnu.edu.ph

FAMILY BACKGROUND
Father’s Name: Arnold L. Shea
Mother’s Name: Concepcion C. Shea

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: Calabanga Central Division Pilot School
Junior High School: Dominican School of Calabanga

43