Botanical pest control: Using hot pepper and lemongrass extracts for pest management

BY JAMES TABABA

  

---

The detrimental effects of chemical pesticides are becoming increasingly apparent, so it is essential to explore alternative methods of pest control. Chemical pesticides can contaminate water sources, harm beneficial insects, and have detrimental effects on human health. Botanical pesticides, on the other hand, offer a safer alternative. They are derived from natural sources, pose minimal risk to humans and the environment, and can effectively control a wide range of pests. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a botanical pesticide using hot pepper and lemon grass extracts.

Hot pepper and lemon grass extracts are highly effective in controlling aphids, thrips, and other sucking insects. These extracts have properties that disrupt the pests' feeding behavior and damage their digestive systems, making them an excellent natural deterrent. When applied as a botanical pesticide, the extracts target not only adult insects but also the larvae and caterpillars.

Materials needed 

To create a botanical pesticide using hot pepper and lemon grass extract, you will need 1 kilogram of hot pepper, preferably the variety known as siling labuyo, and 1 kilogram of lemongrass. Additionally, you will require 3 liters of tap water to serve as the base for the pesticide solution. To process the ingredients, you'll need a blender or a mortar and pestle, depending on your preference and availability. Finally, prepare a coco-cloth or flour cloth to strain and separate the liquid extract from any solid particles.

Hot pepper extract preparation

To prepare the hot pepper extract, begin by finely crushing the hot pepper either by pounding or blending it. Once crushed, add 1 liter of tap water to the hot pepper and thoroughly mix the ingredients. Strain the mixture through a coco-cloth or a flour cloth to extract the juice while separating any solid particles. It's important not to discard the pounded hot pepper at this stage. Instead, place it back into a container and add another liter of tap water. Repeat the extraction process by straining the mixture once more, and then combine this second extract with the first one obtained earlier.

Hot pepper (Steve Johnson/Unsplash)

Lemon grass extract preparation

To create lemongrass extract for your botanical pesticide, start by taking 1 kilogram of lemon grass stems and finely chop them into pieces approximately 0.2 to 0.5 inches long, ensuring uniformity in size. Next, place the chopped lemongrass in a blender and add 1 liter of water to it. Blend the mixture thoroughly until it reaches a smooth consistency, allowing the beneficial properties of the lemongrass to be extracted. Finally, extract the juice by straining the mixture through a coco-cloth or a flour cloth. This straining process will effectively separate any solid particles, resulting in a clean and pure lemon grass extract.

Lemongrass (CHUTTERSNAP/Unsplash)

Mixing the extracts

Combine the hot pepper extract and lemon grass extract in a container. Ensure that both extracts are present in the desired proportions. Thoroughly mix the two extracts together, making sure they are well blended to create a uniform solution. The resulting mixture is now ready for use and can be applied as a pesticide. However, keep in mind that its effectiveness may diminish over time. To maximize its shelf life, it is recommended to refrigerate the mixture. This will help preserve its potency and ensure its usability for a period of 15 to 30 days.

Dosage and application 

To prepare the botanical pesticide solution, add 0.5 liter of the hot pepper and lemon grass mixture to a larger container containing 16-20 liters of water. This dilution ensures proper dispersion and effectiveness of the botanical extracts. For improved adhesion and efficacy, you may consider adding 20 ml of a dishwashing solution to enhance its sticking power. Thoroughly mix the solution to ensure an even distribution of the botanical extracts throughout. Now, equipped with a sprayer, apply the pesticide on both the leaves and soil of the affected plants, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Depending on the severity of the infestation, repeat the application every 3-7 days, maintaining a consistent treatment schedule. For optimal results, it is recommended to apply the pesticide during cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.

Botanical pesticides offer an effective and safe solution for pest control. By utilizing natural extracts from hot pepper and lemon grass, you can protect your plants from harmful insects with minimal risk. The process of making your own botanical pesticide is simple and cost-effective, and the resulting mixture can be stored and used for an extended period. Botanical pesticides contribute to a healthier and more sustainable approach to gardening and agriculture.

For more information and resources related to organic pest control, including this guide, visit the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Training Institute website.

July orchids of the month: Trichoglottis orchids

BY JAMES TABABA

  

---

Trichoglottis orchids are known to be in full bloom during the month of July. It is a time when these beautiful orchids showcase their captivating and vibrant flowers. The name "Trichoglottis" is derived from two Greek words: "trichos" meaning "hair" or "hairy" and "glotta" meaning "tongue." This name refers to the characteristic tongue-like labellum, or lip, of the orchid flowers and the presence of fine hairs or trichomes on certain parts of the plant. Trichoglottis orchids are native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines.

Trichoglottis gubertti (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Growth habits and mounting

Trichoglottis orchids stand tall with an upright or sometimes pendulous growth habit that has alternating spikes. These remarkable plants typically are found mounted on tree branches or tree fern plaques in the market. While some may mistake them for regular Vanda orchids, it's crucial to acknowledge that Trichoglottis orchids require a more humid environment due to their natural inclination to thrive near rivers. Daily watering is recommended, preferably in the morning, ensuring the plants start their day refreshed.

Mounting plays a vital role in the successful growth of Trichoglottis orchids. Despite their thick roots, these orchids need proper anchoring to establish themselves in their new environment. Firmly mounting them allows their roots to settle and secure their footing, enabling them to absorb moisture and nutrients efficiently. By providing a stable foundation, we offer these blooms the opportunity to flourish magnificently in our gardens.

Trichovanda Thai Velvet/ Trichoglottis artropurpurea x Vanda kinzweiler (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Thick and waxy petals

One of the key attributes that make Trichoglottis orchids highly sought after for hybridization is the thickness and waxy texture of their petals. These characteristics contribute to the longevity and shelf life of their flowers. An excellent example of the successful outcome of hybridization involving Trichoglottis orchids is the Trichovanda Thai Velvet. This mesmerizing hybrid, born from the union of Trichoglottis artropurpurea and Vanda kinzweiler, showcases larger flowers compared to its parents. Such hybrids with enhanced qualities demonstrate the remarkable characteristics inherent in Trichoglottis orchids.

Trichovanda Thai Velvet/ Trichoglottis artropurpurea x Vanda kinzweiler (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Beautiful colors

Trichoglottis orchids exhibit a stunning array of colors and patterns, further enhancing their allure. Some varieties show intricate combinations and striking blotches that add a more artistic touch to their blooms. Take, for instance, Trichoglottis rosea, a captivating orchid showcasing a blend of pink, lavender, or rose hues, earning its specific epithet "rosea." The elongated and somewhat twisted petals and sepals of Trichoglottis orchids create an elegant and unique appearance.

Trichoglottis rosea (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Small but compact

While some Trichoglottis orchids may have relatively small individual flowers, they compensate by forming dense clusters that exude a symphony of beauty. Trichoglottis gubertti, a native species of the Philippines. When in full bloom, this species captivates onlookers with its impressive floral display. The number of flowers per inflorescence may vary depending on the plant and growing conditions, but Trichoglottis gubertti consistently offers a generous presentation.

Trichoglottis gubertti (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Cultivating Trichoglottis orchids requires attention to their specific needs, such as mounting them securely, providing a humid environment, and ensuring they receive bright but indirect light. The rewards, however, are well worth the effort.

Photo courtesy ofManila Bulletin Agriculture

The future of mango cultivation: Advancements and innovations

BY JAMES TABABA

  

---

Efficient mango farming is essential for maximizing yields and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices. Enrico Batungbacal, owner of Batungbacal farm and one of the mango producers in Zambales, has made substantial investments in revolutionizing traditional mango farming methods. Through innovative approaches and cutting-edge technologies, Enrico has transformed his orchard through irrigation systems, chemical product application, and tree pruning techniques. These investments hold the promise of increased productivity, reduced labor requirements, and improved sustainability within the mango farming industry.

READ: Fruitful heritage: Family-owned farm in Zambales still produces mangoes after 35 years

The orchard sprayer is attached to the back of the tractor. (Batungbacal Farm)

Revolutionizing irrigation systems

Enrico invested a significant amount of resources to acquire the knowledge of proper mango farming techniques, aiming to optimize their production systems. In 2018, substantial investments were made, the first being a transition to a new irrigation system. They opted for a pressurized drip irrigation system with fertigation, which not only provided irrigation for the mango trees but also allowed for fertilization through the same system. This shift represented a considerable improvement compared to the previous manual method, which involved drilling holes beneath the tree canopy, placing the fertilizer, and covering it up. 

With the new system, they had a single mixing tank where the fertilizer was diluted, and a venturi system that facilitated the delivery of the fertilizer through the irrigation system. The liquid form of the fertilizer offered advantages by enhancing nutrient uptake in the trees. Additionally, instead of applying fertilizer all at once, it could now be administered gradually every two weeks, tailored to the tree's requirements. This newfound flexibility allowed for fertilizer application even during the flowering and fruiting stages, precisely when the trees needed it most.

Streamlining chemical product application

Enricos’ second improvement centered around the application of chemical products. In the Philippines, the prevalent approach involved using a power sprayer, hose, and spray gun. However, due to their orchard-type system, they were able to procure an orchard sprayer from Italy. This sprayer, which was attached to a tractor, traversed the rows of trees, efficiently distributing the required products. The use of this sprayer provided both safety and efficiency advantages. Operators remained secure inside the tractor, while the trailer carrying the orchard sprayer was situated far from the operator at the rear. The efficiency gains were significant, reducing the number of people required for the spraying program from 24 to just one person for every 6,000 mango trees. 

Using an orchard sprayer is an efficient way to apply flower inducer, foliar fertilizers, and pesticides in large mango farms. (Batungbacal Farm)

Spraying was typically conducted in the early morning around 5 a.m. or during the late afternoon when the sun was rising or setting, respectively. These time periods were selected as the stomata of the leaves remained open, and wind conditions were minimal. Occasionally, spraying was performed in the afternoon to effectively target specific insects that emerged at dusk. The entire process was swift, taking only two hours. For instance, if they initiated spraying at 5 PM, they would typically conclude by 7.

Advancing tree pruning techniques

Another equipment that had been acquired was an orchard pruner, designed specifically for tree pruning. By maintaining their trees at a smaller size, they found it much easier to manage them compared to maintaining century-old, towering trees. The smaller tree sizes facilitated improved sunlight and chemical penetration, with nutrients having a shorter travel distance for uptake. Harvesting became a simpler task, and overall tree management was more convenient.

The orchard pruner for maintaining the mango trees small. (Batungbacal Farm)

Interestingly, in other countries, Enrico shared that orchard trees were progressively becoming smaller. Globally, orchards were shifting towards high-density planting, where trees were positioned closely to one another but were intentionally kept small, typically between 2 to 3 meters in height. Apart from the enhanced production system, this approach resulted in a doubled yield. While the global average for mango yield per hectare stood at around 12 tons, in the Philippines, it was a mere 4 tons per hectare, and in Zambales, an even lower 2 tons per hectare. However, with high-density farming, farms were able to achieve remarkable yields of 30-50 tons per hectare, although with an approximate density of 600 trees per hectare. Considering their farm had 6,000 trees spanning 120 hectares, implementing high-density farming on just 10 hectares could effectively double their yield.

Motivated by these prospects, he planned to start with one hectare, learning and assessing the compatibility of this system with Carabao mangoes. The high-density farming technique demonstrated great potential not only for mangoes but also for other orchard fruits such as avocados, oranges, and more. The question that often crossed his mind was why this technology was not more widely practiced or explored, given its existence for several years.

Challenges in manpower acquisition and the shift to mechanization

The acquisition of manpower has become increasingly challenging as the standard of living in the province has improved. “The younger generation has shown less interest in pursuing careers in farming,” Enrico said.

3 years old mango producing flowers for high density mango planting. (Batungbacal Farm)

 In light of these circumstances, the decision to transition to mechanized operations has proven to be timely. Operating the machinery and irrigation systems requires specific skills, and as a result, Enrico now offers higher compensation to attract and retain qualified personnel. This issue of labor scarcity is not unique to the mango industry but is prevalent across the entire agricultural sector. The ongoing urbanization of towns has led to an abundance of alternative job opportunities outside the realm of farming.

Enrico expressed his firm determination to embrace these changes because “We need our farm to catch up with technology to keep efficiency,” he said. The farm was actively preparing to adopt these innovative techniques, setting the stage for a future of improved productivity and sustainability.

In the next article, Enrico will share his insights for building a successful farming business.

Photo courtesy of Batungbacal Farm

Orchids of the Month of June

June marks the rainy season and blooming of many orchid species in the Philippines, with Grammatophyllum wallisii, Renanthera storiei, Vanda luzonica, and Vanda ustii being some of the fascinating orchids that bloom during this time.

BY JAMES TABABA

Jun 7, 2023 01:51 PM

  

---

June is a special month in the Philippines, as it marks the onset of the rainy season and the blooming of many beautiful orchid species. As the rains begin to fall, orchids that have been dormant during the dry season are triggered to start growing and producing flowers, bringing color and life to gardens and natural areas across the country.

In many parts of the Philippines, particularly in the mountainous areas, the blooming of certain flowers during June serves as a natural indicator of the changing season. Mountain communities have developed an intimate understanding of their local flora and fauna, utilizing this knowledge to monitor environmental changes throughout the year.

Here are some of the fascinating orchids that typically bloom in June, showcasing the diversity and beauty of the Philippines' native flora.

Grammatophyllum wallisii

Grammatophyllum wallisii, commonly known as the Tiger Orchid, is native to the tropical rainforests of the Philippines. This magnificent orchid species has been prized for centuries for its flowers, which are often striped with bold, tiger-like patterns.

Grammatophyllum wallisii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

It has been located in various locations, including the Sierra Madre Mountain range, Quirino, Aurora, Bicol, and Quezon provinces. These areas provide the orchid with the ideal conditions it needs to grow and thrive, such as high humidity, warm temperatures, and ample rainfall.

Grammatophyllum wallisii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Grammatophyllum wallisii is a type of orchid that is known as a sympodial orchid. Sympodial growth refers to the way in which the plant grows, with lateral growth producing new shoots from the base of the plant rather than from a central stem.  This growth pattern allows the plant to form large clumps over time, with multiple pseudobulbs and leaves forming a dense and impressive display.

The plant can grow up to several meters in length and width, making it one of the largest orchids in the world.

Renanthera storiei

Renanthera storiei is a beautiful and unique orchid species native to the Philippines. Renanthera storiei is commonly known as the Fire Orchid due to its brilliant fiery red flowers. The common name is derived from the color of its blooms, which resemble the flames of a fire. The Fire Orchid is a popular ornamental plant and is widely cultivated for its stunning and vibrant flowers.

Renanthera storiei (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

One of the reasons for its popularity is its use in breeding programs to produce larger and more robust flowers with branching spikes. It is highly sought after for its desirable traits such as its vibrant color, strong stems, and long-lasting flowers. As a result, it has been extensively used in breeding programs to develop new and exciting orchid varieties.

Renanthera storiei (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Renanthera storiei is a monopodial orchid, which means it has a single stem with leaves and flowers growing from the top. The stem grows upward and does not produce pseudobulbs like many other orchid species. Instead, the plant produces aerial roots that help it anchor onto tree trunks or other support structures.

Vanda luzonica

Vanda luzonica is an orchid species that is named after Luzon island in the Philippines, where it is commonly found. It is an endemic orchid of the Philippines, meaning it is native to and found only in the Philippines. However, it has become rarer due to the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in Zambales. Despite this, it remains a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts, and is often used in hybridization to create new and interesting orchid varieties, particularly for its beautiful pink pigment.

Vanda luzonica (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

The color of the flowers is typically white with a soft pink or lavender shade, with darker pink or purple markings or spots on the lip. The petals and sepals are usually a lighter color than the lip, giving the flower a delicate look.

Vanda luzonica (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

One of the interesting characteristics of this bloom is that it typically needs to grow to about one meter in height before it will produce its striking flowers. This height requirement is a trait of some monopodial orchids, which grow vertically from a single stem and produce leaves and flowers along its length.

Vanda ustii

Vanda ustii is a beautiful and unique orchid that is endemic to the Philippines. Originally thought to be a variety of Vanda luzonica, it was later determined to be a separate species due to its distinct morphology. It was named after the University of Santo Tomas, with its golden-yellow flowers representing the school's colors.

Vanda ustii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

The flowers of Vanda ustii display a golden-yellow hue with a purple lip and violet markings on each sepal. As a monopodial orchid, Vanda ustii grows from a single stem that continues to elongate from the tip throughout its life.

Vanda ustii (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Compared to its close relative Vanda luzonica, Vanda ustii is more free-flowering and produces blooms more frequently. It can be found in the Southern Luzon regions of the Philippines.

Shades of green: How to create a garden in shady areas

Gardening is a popular hobby that allows people to connect with nature and beautify their surroundings. However, not all gardens have access to abundant sunlight. Shady areas pose a challenge for gardeners, but with the right knowledge and techniques, it is possible to grow plants successfully even in these conditions.

BY JAMES TABABA

Jun 5, 2023 01:01 PM

  

---

 (Priscilla Du Preez/Unsplash)

By JAMES TABABA

Gardening is a popular hobby that allows people to connect with nature and beautify their surroundings. However, not all gardens have access to abundant sunlight. Shady areas pose a challenge for gardeners, but with the right knowledge and techniques, it is possible to grow plants successfully even in these conditions.

Choosing the right plants

When it comes to gardening in shady areas, selecting the right plants is crucial. While not all plants thrive in shady areas, many shade-tolerant crops are available. Choose for shade-tolerant varieties that thrive with limited sunlight. There are several vegetables that can tolerate shade to some extent. Leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, kale, and herbs like parsley and mint can grow reasonably well in shady areas. However, it's important to note that most vegetables thrive in full sun. Additionally, many beautiful flowers are well-suited for shady gardens. Some popular choices include impatiens, begonias, and ferns.

Ensuring sufficient lighting

Although shade gardens lack direct sunlight, there are ways to maximize the available light. Trim or remove overhanging branches to increase the penetration of natural light. Additionally, consider using reflective surfaces such as light-colored fences or walls to bounce light onto plants. In extreme cases, supplementing with artificial lighting, such as grow lights, can help provide the necessary light spectrum for plant growth.

Controlling weed growth

Weed management is crucial in any garden, including shady areas. Weeds compete with plants for nutrients and resources, hindering their growth. To control weeds effectively, employ strategies like regular hand-pulling, using a hoe, or applying organic mulch. Mulching is particularly beneficial in shady gardens as it helps conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.

Pruning and maintenance

Proper pruning and general maintenance are essential for the health and appearance of shade plants. Pruning helps maintain the shape of plants, remove dead or damaged foliage, and promote airflow. Trim back overgrown branches to allow more light to reach the lower parts of the plants. Additionally, regularly check for signs of disease or nutrient deficiencies and take appropriate measures to address them promptly.

By choosing shade-tolerant plants, preparing the soil, providing adequate lighting, managing weeds and pests, and maintaining proper pruning and care, you can create a lush garden in even the shade-covered spaces.