Acceptability of Mangrove
(Rhizophora Apiculata) Leaves as
Liquid Fertilizer for Pechay
Marc Chester Chingsai
Mary Elynor Vhince Matban
Trisha Almonte
Jameela Abigail Ilagan
Reasearchers
Bunuan Boquig National High School
Bunuan boquig, Dagupan city
SY. 2023 -2024
Cath Basa
Research Adviser
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Table of Contents
Title page…………………………………………………………………
Research plan
Abstract
Introduction
Background of the study
Conceptual framework
Hypothesis
Significance of the study
Scope and delimitation
Definition of terms
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Review of related literature
Methodology
Research design
Materials and equipment
Procedures
Flow chart of procedure
Experimental treatments
Result and discussion
Summary of findings
Conclusion
Recommendation
Appendices
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Acknowledgement
A. Research Plan
I. RESEARCH PROBLEM
1. Is making fertilizer for Pechay out of Mangrove leaves feasible?
2. What are the effects of the Mangrove leaf fertilizer on the Pechay?
3. What is the quality of the Mangrove fertilizer in terms of:
a. Plant Growth
b. Consumer Appeal
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II. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to produce fertilizer made of Mangrove leaves that is
effective, cost-efficient, and accessible in the locality.
III. PROCEDURES
a. Shred the Mangrove leaves Fallen mangrove leaves were collected
from the Longos River and washed before use.
b. Put mangrove leaves into a jar. (0.16-33%, 0.25-50%, 0.50 100%)
c. Add 0.5 liters of water.
d. Mix for 3-5 minutes.
e. Close the lid of the mixture tightly.
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f. Ferment fertilizer for 3 days before application.
A. Abstract
The research advocates the viability of dead mangrove leaves as a liquid
fertilizer. To prove this the researchers picked pechay as the subject for this
research to determine the acceptability of their mangrove liquid fertilizer. The
researchers gathered mangrove leaves in which they will use 0.15 kg, 0.35 kg,
and 0.50 kg for treatment 1, 2 and 3 respectively. They mixed with 0.5 liters of
water; leave it for 3 days and mix it well everyday for 3-5 minutes. Leaving it for
more than three will make the mixture too strong for some plants, and may kill
the plant; also odor will be bad if it was left for too long.
To demonstrate the acceptability of this liquid fertilizer the researchers planted
pechay seeds in 4 different pots. Each pot we’re planted with 5 pechay seeds; all
are labeled treatment 1 ( 33% ), treatment 2 ( 50%), treatment 3 ( 100% ) and
treatment 4 ( commercially available fertilizer ) After 15 days, we applied the
treatments to their designated pots.
Survey were conducted to evaluate the acceptance of the mangrove liquid
fertilizer. The researchers will use the data gathered from the survey as evidence
for the research’s significance.
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B. Introduction
The environmental advocacy campaign “Ilog Ko Aroen Ko” caused the
abundance of mangrove (Rhizophora Apiculata) in the Longos River leads
to more foliage and leaf litter (it refers to leaves parts of the plants or trees
like twigs and bark etc.). Accumulation of these can cause a mass growth
of moss which use up the oxygen in the fish ponds, or damage the gills of
the fishes residing there; Additionally grass grow in the dirt pathway at the
fish ponds. To combat this, the fishermen clean the pond, collect the leaf
litter and burn it along with the grass from the dirt path. But this proved to
be ineffective, because the ash from burning will eventually give nutrients
to the soil and grow back again.
Also burning is very bad for our environment as it damages our ozone
layer, the very thing protecting us from the UV rays from the sun.
So to solve this problem the researches created this research study. Using
the mangrove leaves for liquid fertilizer will solve the stated problem and
can give livelihood for the community. Mangrove leaves is rich in potassium
and contain some phosphorus and nitrogen. That’s why it’s ideal for
fertilizer as it contain the main macronutrients for plant fertilizers; namely
Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K). But because of the low
amount of N and P we need to add something to balance out everything.
For this dilemma we can use a variety of natural ingredients for this to be
solved. An example is using fish bones and/or fish innards with mangrove;
as it solves the problem of low amount of phosphorus and potassium.
The utilization of organic waste for agricultural purposes has become an
increasingly pertinent area of research due to the growing awareness of
environmental sustainability and the need for eco-friendly agricultural
practices. In this context, the study focuses on exploring the potential of
dead mangrove leaves, a readily available organic material in coastal
areas, as a viable liquid fertilizer. This research is grounded in the premise
that such organic fertilizers can offer a sustainable alternative to chemical
fertilizers, reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture while
providing essential nutrients to plants.
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Mangroves are known for their unique ecological role and bioactive
compounds, which could contribute positively to plant growth and soil
health. However, the effectiveness and acceptability of mangrove-based
fertilizers in agricultural practice remain underexplored, especially for
commonly grown vegetables like pechay (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis).
Pechay is chosen for this study due to its widespread consumption,
nutritional value, and relatively short growth cycle, making it an ideal
candidate for observing the effects of different fertilizer treatments within a
manageable timeframe.
The study aims to formulate a liquid fertilizer from dead mangrove leaves
and assess its acceptability as an alternative to conventional fertilizers. By
examining the growth performance of pechay under different
concentrations of the mangrove leaf extract, this research seeks to offer
insights into the optimal use of such organic fertilizers. The experiment
involves preparing three different concentrations of the mangrove leaf
solution (33%, 50%, and 100%) to understand the dose-response
relationship between the fertilizer strength and pechay growth outcomes. A
commercially available chemical fertilizer serves as a control to benchmark
the effectiveness of the mangrove leaf extracts.
In addition to evaluating the agronomic benefits of the mangrove leaf
fertilizer, the study also considers the environmental and economic
implications of this organic alternative. By conducting surveys, the research
gauges the acceptability of the mangrove liquid fertilizer among potential
users, focusing on its ease of preparation, application, cost-effectiveness,
and perceived effectiveness in enhancing crop yield and quality.
This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable
agriculture by examining the feasibility of utilizing natural waste materials
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as fertilizer, potentially offering a low-cost and environmentally friendly
solution for smallholder farmers and gardeners. By aligning with global
sustainability goals, the study underscores the importance of innovative
agricultural practices that support ecosystem health, food security, and
resilience against climate change.
Conceptual framework
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Hypothesis
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This study would be beneficial to society because it would reduce the expense of
utilizing commercially manufactured chemical based fertilizer. Give new and
environmental friendly livelihood for the community and create a significant impact on
the environment.
H⁰. There is no significant difference between mangrove liquid fertilizer and
manufactured fertilizer in terms of Consumer Appeal and Plant Growth.
A. Plant Growth
B. Costumer appeal
Hª. There is significant difference between mangrove liquid fertilizer and manufactured
fertilizer in terms of;
A. Plant Growth
B. Costumer appeal
Significance of the Study
This study was conducted to produce a organic liquid fertilizer with mangrove
leaves that will reduce the large portion of grass and moss growth; harming the
fishes in the pond. Additionally we can avoid pollution cause by burning grass in
the dirt path at the longos river.
Scope and Delimitation
This study aimed to create an organic liquid fertilizer out of mangrove leaves and
focus on the consumers acceptance on the said liquid fertilizer. The mangrove
leaves were gathered from longos river, Bonuan Boquig, Dagupan city.
This study was conducted at the Bonuan Boquig National High School from
March 2023 to March 2024.
Definition of terms
A. Leaf litter – examples are twigs leaves and bark.
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B. Liquid fertilizer – a type of fertilizer; the ingredients for this are left to soak in water to
decompose. And it’s liquid is used to fertilize plants and the soil.
C. Commercial fertilizers – a fertilizer that’s is widely sold and commonly used.
D. Synthetic fertilizers – a fertilizer that is chemical based artificially produced to fertilize
plants and sometimes soil.
E. Effectiveness – refers to the competency and performance of something, the state of
well being and quality.
C. Related Literatures
According to the study of Muthu, H. D., Tengku Izhar, T. N., Zakarya, I. A., & Mohd
Saad, F. N. (2023). Comparative study between organic liquid fertilizer and commercial
liquid fertilizer and their growth performances on mustard greens.
IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, organic liquid fertilizers are
as good as the commercial fertilizers sold at the markets. Provided it has enough
nutrients; namely K (potassium), P (phosphorus) and N (nitrogen).
The Reef, R., Feller, I. C., Lovelock, C. (2010). Nutrition of mangroves. Tree Physiology,
states “Mangrove leaves are usually rich in potassium but poor in nitrogen and
phosphorus.
Stewart, A. (2009, September 4). Liquid fertilizers. ABC Gardening. “Liquid fertilisers
offer a quick response. The nutrients are almost immediately available to be absorbed
through the roots or leaves, correcting nutrient deficiencies quickly or giving the plant a
general boost through the growing season.”
D. Methodology
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Research design
in this investigatory project, the researchers used experimental design Completely
Randomized Design (CRD). The treatments are randomly assigned to the experimental
subjects without restrictions.
Materials and Equipment
The following materials that is needed for this study are 1 kilo of mangrove leaves, 1.5
liters of water (0.5 liter for each fertilizer), pechay seeds, commercially available
fertilizer, and soil. Next are the following tools and equipment needed for this study.
Weighing scale, measuring cups for ml and L, small plant pots N in height and N in
diameter and a ruler for inches.
Procedure
For the procedure of the research experiment, first the researchers planted
pechay seeds on 4 plants. Labeling all of them with “treatment 1”, “treatment 2,
“treatment 3”, and “treatment 4”. Upon the 12 day mark the researchers had
gathered mangrove leaves on the longos river. They’ve picked the fallen leaves
from the bakawan trees shred the leaves using their hands and placed it in a
container together with 0.5 liters of water. Mix it for 3-5 minutes and close the lid
tightly. Next is wait till day 15 and apply the fertilizers on their respective pots.
Flow chart of the procedure
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Experimental treatment
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To determine the quality of the mangrove liquid fertilizer, the researchers have
given samples of all fertilizer’s treatments and conducted a survey to evaluate
the Consumer Acceptance.
Consumer acceptance
Table 1
Treatments 1 out of 2 out of 3 out of 4 out of 5 out of Total
5 5 5 5 5 respondents
Treatment 5 14 7 3 1 30
1
Treatment 0 0 6 10 14 30
2
Treatment 1 3 12 9 5 30
3
Treatment 0 0 7 8 15 30
4
Table 1. Shows the consumer acceptance on the mangrove liquid fertilizer by rating it from 1 to 5.
Table 2
Treatments Amount of mangrove leaves
used
Treatment 1 0.15 kg
Treatment 2 0.35 kg
Treatment 3 0.50 kg
Treatment 4 None (used chemical based
fertilizer)
Table 2. Shows the amount of mangrove leaves used for the fertilizers.
Statistical treatment
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This study used Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to test if there is no significant difference
among the treatments in terms of ink quality, ink duration, and costing between the level
of acceptance to the profile of the respondents. The formula is as follows.
FCALC=MSBT/MSWT
where MSBT is the mean square between treatments and MSWR is the mean square
within treatments.
ANOVA is laid out as follows:
Replicate
Treatment 1 2 3 (Row total) (Row total)
T1 XA XA XA XA XA
T2 XB XB XB XB XB
T3 XC XC XC XB XB
ΣΧΤ ΣΧΤ²
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The following were the formula used in calculating the entries in the ANOVA summary table.
Legend:
t = Number of Treatments
r = Number of Replicates / Trials
MS = Mean Square
DF = Degrees of freedom
SS = Sum of Squares
BT = Between Treatments
WT =Within Treatment
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Table 1
Level of Acceptance among the Treatments of Mangrove Liquid Fertilizer in terms of Plant Growth
(n=30)
Trials/Replicates
Treatments Gardener Casual planters Others Average Level
of Acceptance
T1 0 0 1 0.33
T2 4 3 5 4
T3 0 1 3 1.33
T4 4 4 5 4.33
Legend: n = number of respondents
The preceding table shows that there is an average of 0.33 level of acceptance on different
respondents of Treatment 1. On Treatment 2, there is an average of 4 level of acceptance on
the variety of respondents in terms of plant growth. 1.33 average of respondents accepted in
treatment 3. In Treatment 4.33 or the commercial sample, an average of 4 level of acceptance
on the profile of respondents in terms of plant growth.
.Table 1-A
Computed Value Tabulated Value Interpretation
11.67 2.05 Computed Value >
Tabulated Value
Analysis of Variance of Table 1
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The null hypothesis is rejected. There is a significant difference on the level of acceptance
among the treatments in terms of plant growth. It implies that commercial fertilizer is as
effective of that of Mangrove Liquid Fertilizer in terms of cleansing.
E. Summary of Findings
In terms of scent, Treatment 1 has an average of 0.33 level of acceptance on
different respondents. On Treatment 2, there is an average of 4 level of
acceptance. 1.33 is the average of respondents accepted Treatment 3. In
Treatment 4, an average of 4.33. Using ANOVA, there is no significant difference
on the level of acceptance among the treatments in term of scent with a
computed value of 11.67 and tabulated value of 2.05.
Result and Discussion
The dead/fallen mangrove leaves was used by the researchers as a organic
liquid fertilizer. Upon doing the following test it has been proven that the
mangrove liquid fertilizer is effective, efficient, and safe for plant use.
Conclusion
The mangrove liquid fertilizer is not as effective as a commercially available
fertilizer. But as effective if other organic sources of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen
(N) are added. It is effective, and safe to use for plants.
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Recommendation
The researchers recommends to use the mangrove liquid fertilizer, T2 for plants
to help with growth. Help plants have sturdier stems gain more nutrients for the
plants growth. It is the treatments that shown the best outcome and acceptance.
APPENDICES
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The Viability of treatments in terms of plant growth
(n=30)
Trials
Treatments 1 2 3 Row total (Row total)²
T1 0 0 1 1 1
T2 4 3 5 12 16
T3 0 1 3 4 144
T4 4 4 5 13 169
Square of Square of Degrees of Mean Square Fcalc Ftab
Variations Squares Freedom
Between 35 3 11.67 11.67 2.05
Treatments
Within 8 8 1
Treatments
Total 43 11
The values for the different entries are obtained as follows:
A) SSBT=(1+16+144+169) – (30)²
3 12
=(330) – (900)
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3 12
=110 – 75
=35
B) SSWT= (0²+0²+1²+0²+1²+3²+4²+3²+5²+4²+4²+5²) – (1+16+144+169)
3
=(118) – (330)
3
=8
C) SST=35+8
=43 =11.67
D) DFBT=4-1
=3
E) DFWT=4(3-1)
=4(2)
=8
F) DFT=3+8
=11
G) MSBT= 35
3
H) MSWT=8
8
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I) FCALC=11.67
1
=11.67
FTAB= 2.05
= 0.05
Acknowledgement
We, the researchers, extend our deepest gratitude to a multitude of individuals
and entities whose support was invaluable in the completion of this study. First
and foremost, we offer our sincerest thanks to God Almighty for the continuous
blessings, strength, and guidance bestowed upon us throughout the entire
research process.
Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to our parents and families for their
unwavering support, encouragement, and understanding. Their sacrifices and
belief in our abilities have been the cornerstone of our perseverance and
success.
We are especially grateful to Ms. Catherine F. Basa, our esteemed class adviser,
for her invaluable contributions to our study. Ms. Basa's expertise, patience, and
dedication have been instrumental in guiding us through the intricacies of our
research. Her willingness to share her knowledge and her constant provision of
the information we needed have greatly enriched our work and sharpened our
insights.
We would also like to express our gratitude to everyone who participated in our
surveys, providing the critical data needed to advance our research. Their
participation was essential to the validity and reliability of our findings.
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This research would not have been possible without the collective support,
encouragement, and guidance of each individual mentioned and the many
unnamed who have contributed to our journey. We are profoundly thankful for
your roles in our academic and personal growth.
Thank you all for being part of this research study. The researchers worked hard to
create a product that will be beneficial to our community.
References
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%2520fertilizers%2520are%2520applied%2520by,absorb%2520fertilizers%2520through
%2520its
%2520roots.&ved=2ahUKEwiNrpW4nvX_AhVgZmwGHbx5BBIQFnoECA0QBQ&usg=AOvVaw2u6q
0fngE8CgKOIqLfkkU7
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%2520complete%2520fertilizer%2520(14%252D14,and%252060%2520kilograms%2520of
%2520potassium.&ved=2ahUKEwiUi-
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4) The Issue | US EPA – epa.gov
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%2520in%2520the%2520water%2520causes%2520algae,aquatic%2520life%2520need%2520to
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%20fertilizer.
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%20tree%20b ark%2C%20leaves%2C%20fruits,be%20used%20as%20mosquito%20repellent
7) StuartXchange http://www.stuartxchange.org › Pot... Pototan-lalaki, Bruguiera cylindrica, BLACK
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5ncbZO1m93OAjR8t
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