INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

In our modern civilization, farmers are using chemical products such as fertilizers,

herbicides and pesticides to make agriculture more productive. Fertilizers are chemical

compounds applied to the soil to promote better plant growth while herbicides and

pesticides are chemicals that are sprayed to the weeds and crops to prevent the growth of

weeds and occurrence of pests. However, these products are very expensive, may cause

diseases to an individual and may bring unnecessary things that may destroy the

environment.

To give solutions to these problems, researchers are trying to find out some

alternative ways which are safe to an individual’s health, cheap and effective in promoting

better plant growth without affecting the environment.

Mulching is one way to ease these problems. It is a method in which a layer of

material is placed on the soil surface around the plant. In agriculture, it has been proven to

enrich the soil, help to provide better crop growth, to prevent the growth of weeds and to

minimize pests’ infestation.

This study was conducted to determine the most effective mulch. Three common

mulching materials namely rice straw (hay), black plastic and white old sack were

compared. These three different mulching materials were used for they have been effective

in agricultural purposes and they were available and can be easily found in the locality. The

test plant used in this study is the eggplant which has a variety of Domino F1 for it was

locally available.

1
Statement of the Problem

This study generally aimed to compare the three different mulching materials

namely rice straw, black plastic and white old sack as mulch for growing eggplant.

The researchers sought answers to the following specific questions:

1. Which treatment is the most effective mulch for growing eggplant in terms of:

a. Controlling weeds

b. Insect Count

c. Number of damaged and undamaged fruits

d. Weight of damaged and undamaged fruits

2. Is there any significant difference among the treatments in terms of:

a. Controlling weeds

b. Insect Count

c. Number of damaged and undamaged fruits

d. Weight of damaged and undamaged fruits

Hypotheses

1. Treatment 2 (black plastic mulch) was the most effective mulch for growing

eggplant in terms of:

a. Controlling weeds

b. Insect Count

c. Number of damaged and undamaged fruits

d. Weight of damaged and undamaged fruits

2
 2. There was a significant difference among the treatments in terms of:

a. Controlling weeds

b. Insect Count

c. Number of damaged and undamaged fruits

d. Weight of damaged and undamaged fruits

Significance of the Study

Nowadays, various processes and methods have been considered inorganic farming

such as composting and utilizing animal manure. These methods have been proven in

giving excellent growth and development of plants (Acayen, 2005-2006). One of the

techniques in organic farming that have been used today is mulching, either dry or wet

season. It is very effective in conserving soil moisture for the plants, preventing growth of

weeds, lessening the use of chemicals like insecticides and pesticides, keeping flowers and

fruits from being spattered with mud during rainy days and keeping the soil cooler during

summer and warmer in rainy season.

Numerous recyclable materials are found in our surroundings such as barks, leaves,

rice straws, sacks and plastics that can be used for some agricultural purposes like

mulching. These mulching materials can also be used as an organic fertilizer for plants.

Furthermore, rice straws, plastics and sacks have been proven as mulches for plants. If

these mulching materials were properly used, it would be a big benefit to the humanity

particularly to the farmers.

It is for this reason that, the researchers thought of exploring the comparison

between rice straw, black plastic and white old sack as mulch for eggplant in terms of

3
controlling weeds, insect count, number and weight of damaged and undamaged fruits.

Through this, the farmers will have comprehensive information about the differences

between the three mulching materials. In addition, this study can help the farmers to lessen

the use of chemical products and will contribute to the protection of the environment for

not using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides which could harm our nature but rather the

mulching materials that have a minimal cost and environment friendly. These will also help

the country’s aim in harnessing the full potential of its natural resources.

Scope and Limitations

This study engaged mainly in comparing rice straw, black plastic and white old

sack as mulching materials for growing eggplants. These mulching materials were

compared in terms of controlling weeds, insect count, number of damaged and undamaged

fruits and weight of damaged and undamaged fruits. Three harvestings were done to

gather data for eggplant. The interval of harvesting was every two weeks.

The experiment was conducted at the vicinity of Lupao, Nueva Ecija in the months

of May to July 2010. There were four treatments that were replicated four times in this

study. In Treatment 1, rice straw was set as mulch. In Treatment 2, black plastic, in

Treatment 3, white old sack was used and Treatment 4 was the control (unmulched). Loam

soil was used in this study. In addition, goat manure was used as the fertilizer. There were

fifteen eggplants in each plot. The variety of eggplant that was used in this study was the

Domino F1 which is the most common variety in the locality and is easy to grow.

Review of Related Literature

4
 Mulch is a layer of material, preferably organic material that is placed on the soil

surface to conserve moisture, prevent growth of weeds, and ultimately improve soil

structure and fertility.

Mulch Acts. It performs in several ways. It fills a role as protector of the topsoil

conserver of moisture, guardian against weather extremes and comfortable, bruise-saving

cushioner under repining procedure. It prevents weed growth while enriching the soil and

all but eliminates a lot of those time-consuming, back aching jobs like plowing and

cultivating always.

Another important advantage of mulching is that, it tends to be an insulator which

means that during many periods of the year, it moderates the temperature of the soil

beneath. In winter a mulched soil can be warmer than other ground and in summer it can be

cooler.

Mulching around trees prevents competition by grass for moisture and nutrients,

trees and in fact most plants need a tremendous amount of moisture during hot weather

especially if the grass and other plants are growing right up to the trunk, they will take the

moisture first and leave less for the tree. Mulching is the easiest and most attractive way for

the average gardener to keep that from happening.

Mulches prevent soil and possible fungi from splashing on the foliage, thus

reducing the possibility of soil-borne diseases. Furthermore, they help maintain more

uniform soil temperature and thus promote the growth of soil microorganisms and

earthworms.

Moreover, mulches eliminate the need to mow around trees and shrubs. They also

provide physical barrier that prevents the damage from lawn mowers and used trimmers. A

5
2-4 inches layer is adequate to prevent most weed seeds from germinating while it should

be applied to a weed-free soil surface by simply covering perennial weeds, such as

Bermuda grass of nut sedge that will prevent their growth. Organic mulched also create

breeding grounds for insects and some fungi. Most are harmless to trees and shrubs but

maybe trouble some to gardeners. Their role is to break down the organic matter to release

nutrients.

Mulch can be applied anytime of the year. Many organic materials can be used as

mulch as long as they are weed free, non matting, easy to apply and readily available. Fine-

articled organic mulch will form more complete soil cover than a course; loose material

that needs to be applied thicker in order to achieve the desired amounts of nutrients and

organic matter to the soil.

A lot of different mulching materials can be used. One of which is rice straw. Rice

Straw as a protective cover over seeded areas to reduce erosion and aid in revegetation or

over bare soils that will be landscaped later to reduce erosion. It forms a loose layer when

applied over a loose soil surface. To protect the mulch from wind drifting and being moved

by water, it must be covered with a net such as plastic or punched into the soil with a spade

or roller, or by spraying it with a tacking agent. The mulch should cover the entire seed or

bare area (Natural Resources Conservation Service, 2000).

Plastic mulch is important to prevent soil erosion during rainy seasons. It also

keeps the soil moist during dry season and prevents sudden rises in temperature in the soil

when it is hot.

Sack tends to be an insulator which means that during many periods of the year, it

moderates the temperature of the soil beneath.

6
 The test plant used was eggplant. Eggplant likes hot weather. Plant after the last

day of frost for your region. Plants often are started indoors six to eight weeks before the

last frost date, and transplanted as the weather warms in the spring. A second setting in mid

summer is often started outdoors. For growing eggplants in terms of caring and feeding;

add plenty of compost and manure, as eggplants thrive in rich soil. Keep the soil moist to

promote maximum growth. Apply a general purpose fertilizer in the spring when you till

the soil. Add additional applications every three to four weeks. Mulch around the plants to

add nutrients, and for moisture retention. Keep eggplants weed free, so they do not

compete for sunlight and nutrients. Provide frost protection for the plants both spring and

fall. The days to maturity are approximately 55 to 70 days for most varieties, with some

little longer. In harvesting, eggplants begin to harvest as soon as the first fruit reaches a

desirable size. Keep picking them and do not let them get too big. By continuous

harvesting, you will encourage more fruit to set all the way to frost. In terms of hardiness,

eggplant is a hot weather crop. It is susceptible to cold temperatures and frost. Delay

planting in the spring until nighttime temperatures is in the upper forties. If you start the

season early, use hot caps for cool nights to help the young seedlings get off to a good,

healthy start. If your crop is still producing in the fall, cover them on cold evenings to

extend the harvest. The variety of eggplant that used was Domino F1.

Domino F1 is a very productive and early variety of eggplants, with sturdy plants

that show a very good tolerance to pests and diseases. The fruits are oblong, medium green

in color, striped, with creamy white color at the blossom-end. Domino has very glossy and

firm fruits, with very good shelf life of up to 7 days, and an excellent shipping quality.

Domino is highly tolerant to fruit and shoot borer. The high yield combined with good fruit

7
quality and very strong plants make this variety a winner. In eggplant, different kinds of

insects may attack whether it’s raining or not.

The different insects attacking eggplant are:

Fruit and shoot borer. The larva bores inside the terminal shoots, resulting in the

withering of the shoots. It also bores into the young fruit and feeds inside which makes the

fruits unmarketable. Several insecticides control this borer, but numerous sprays are

needed.

Thrips attack eggplant mostly during the dry season. They cause browning of

leaves, especially on the lower leaf surface, and the scarring of fruit.

Leafhoppers feed mainly on the underside of eggplant leaves, causing yellow

patches on the foliage. Certain species also transmit mycoplasma-like diseases, such as

little leaf disease. Fruit setting is adversely affected by the infestation.

Aphids feed on the juices within leaves and stems. Black sooty mold develops on

the sugary excretions of the aphid. This sooty mold covers the plants, thereby reducing

photosynthesis and weakening the plant. Aphids occur in the cool dry season.

Epilachna beetles feed voraciously on the leaves and tender parts of eggplant.

They cause serious damage during their larval stage and when they appear in large

numbers. As a result of their feeding, skeletonized patches develop on leaves. Later, the

leaves dry away.

Review of Related Studies

“Effect of Rice Straw Mulch and Frequency of Handweeding on the Growth

and Yield of Batanes Onion” is one of the related projects in this study. The study was

8
conducted to determine the effect of rice straw mulch and frequency of handweeding on the

growth and yield of Batanes Onion. The main treatments used were: A (Mulched), A2

(Unmulched) while the different sub treatments were the following: B1 (unweeded), B2

(every two weeks), B3 (every three weeks) B4 (every four weeks) and B5 (every five

weeks).

Results of this study showed that plants treated with rice straw mulch gave

significant differences in growth, height, diameter of the bulbs and yield. However, B2 (plot

weeded every two weeks interval) gave the highest significant difference on yield among

the different treatments.

“Evaluation of the Need for Mulching, Weed and Insect Control on Bulb

Onion” is another related experiment in this study. This study was conducted to determine

the influence of mulch, weedicide and insecticide as well as their interaction on the growth

and development of onion plants.

The treatments used were as follows: Main Plot: unmulched, mulched with rice hull

and mulched with rice straw. Subplot: unweeded, handweeded and use of herbicide.

Subplot: Insecticide, Dursban 158EC, Parapest.

Results indicated that mulching influenced the growth. It was noted that mulch

plants grew better than the unmulched plants. As to bulb formation, the combined influence

of mulch and herbicide apparently gave excellent flavor the normal growth and

developments of the plants. It was observed that plants treated with herbicide and an

addition of mulched produced significantly heavier bulbs than unweeded unmulched

plants. The excellent growth and development of the plants could be attributed to the

retentivity of moisture and the absence of weeds.

9
 Weeds compete with the plants in the absorption of nutrients and water; reduce

light intensity reaching the leaves impairing plant growth and development.

Another related project in this study is the “Dried Papaya Leaves as Organic

Mulch for Tomato Plants”. Mulching in agriculture provides a safe yet equally profitable

method of enriching and fertilizing the soil planted with crops. Most often-used mulches

are the organic composition, such as drying leaves and barks. Unlike synthetic fertilizers

and herbicides, these organic mulches pose no or little damage to the soil and crops.

In this study, effectiveness of dried papaya leaves as organic mulch for tomato was

tested. Papaya mulches in different thickness were applied on plots planted with tomato in

three replications. After the determined of mulch application, the researchers measured the

height increases of tomato plants and the weed density in the plots. It was concluded that

papaya mulch is significantly promoted height increases of tomato plants and inhibited the

growth of weeds. The best mulch was three inches in thickness.

Definition of Terms

Black Currant - small black berries used in jams and jellies

Cushion- a layer of fine material (as sand, granulated slag, bituminous mastic, or stone

screening) placed on top of a foundation for a block pigment

Frost- a condition or temperature of the air that causes the freezing of water

Foliage- the mass of leaves of a plant as produced in nature; a carved representation of

leaves, flowers and branches used for architectural orientation

Molds- a growth of minute fungi forming on vegetable or animal matter, commonly as a

10
 downy or furry coating, and associated with decay or dampness

Priming- the beginning or earliest stage of any period

Revegetation- to provide a vegetative cover for (land previously stripped of vegetation)

Spattering- to come forth in drops or small splashes

Research Paradigm

The variables that were observed in this study consist of three major components

namely: independent variable, dependent variable and extraneous variables. The

independent variable include the different mulching material (rice straw, black plastic and

white old sack) while the dependent variable was the effect of mulch for growing

eggplants in terms of controlling weeds, insect count, number of damaged and undamaged

fruits and weight of damaged and undamaged fruits.

On the other hand, the extraneous variables were as follows: frequency of watering

the eggplants, variety of eggplant (Domino F1), amount of organic fertilizer (goat manure)

and type of soil (loam).

The schematic diagram of interaction is shown below:

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Effect in Growing Eggplants in terms
of:
• controlling weeds
Different Mulching Materials (rice • insect count
straw, black plastic and • number of damaged and
white old sack) undamaged fruits
• weight of damaged and
undamaged fruits

11
 Extraneous Variables

 Frequency of watering the test plants

 Variety of eggplant(Domino F1)

 Amount of organic fertilizer (goat manure)

 Type of soil(loam)

METHODOLOGY

Collecting and Sowing of Eggplant Seeds

Three-hundred grams of eggplant seeds were obtained from CLSU Seed Center in

Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. One kilogram of rice hull and three kilograms of goat

manure were mixed together in an improvised seed tray which measures 0.5m by 1.5m.

The seeds were scattered evenly and watered every morning and late afternoon using

sprinkler. The seeds of eggplant were sown three to four weeks in an improvised seed bed

before transplanting into the prepared plots which measures 117 square meters good

enough for 240 plants in this study.

12
Land Preparation

A well-drained soil with an area of 117 square meters (13m by 9m) was used in this

study. The area was plowed to pulverize the soil using hoe and harrowed with a rake to

level the soil and eliminate the weeds. The experiment was laid out in Randomized

Complete Block Design (RCBD) with each of four treatments replicated in four blocks.

There were sixteen plots measuring 1.5m by 2.5m each. Each plot was further divided into

three columns and five rows wherein three plants in each column and five plants in each

row. Path of one meter wide was provided between blocks. Three kilograms of goat

manure was applied on each plot.

Preparing and Setting the Mulching Materials

Rice straws, black plastics and white old sacks were used as the different mulching

materials. Before setting the three different mulching materials, the sixteen plots were

watered with six liters of water for each plot. After watering the sixteen plots, the three

different mulching materials were set in four replications in each treatment. Rice straw was

set in Treatment 1 with approximately thickness of four inches. Black plastic was set in

Treatment 2 measuring 1.5m by 2.5m. To cover the four plots in Treatment 2 with black

plastic, eight pieces of pointed bamboos were placed on the edges of the black plastic and

were hammered in the soil. The same procedures were followed with the white old sack for

Treatment 3. After covering the treatments with black and white old sack, making holes on

13
the plastics and sacks were done by using the heated circular shape of the small can with a

distance of 50cm by 50cm per hole. The Treatment 4 was the unmulched (control).

Transplanting of Eggplants on the Prepared Plots

After three to four weeks of sowing the eggplant seeds were ready to be

transplanted into the experimental plots. Before pulling out the seedlings from the

improvised seed bed, it was watered first with six liters of water to remove the seedlings

easily.

In each plot, there were fifteen eggplants with a plant distance of 50cm by 50cm.

Pointed bamboo sticks were used to transplant the seedlings into the soil. This was done in

Treatment 1. For Treatment 2 (black plastic), Treatment 3 (white old sack) and in the

Treatment 4 (unmulched), the same procedure was done to transplant the seedlings into the

soil.

Data Gathering

The following data were gathered for this study:

1. Controlling Weeds

For gathering the data on weeds, pulling out of grass or hand weeding process was

done every two weeks. The weeds gathered by the researchers were counted manually and

were recorded and analyzed. The mean of weeds in each treatment was obtained by adding

the number of weeds in each replicates and was divided by the number of replicates. The

data were analyzed to determine the difference of the population of weeds among the

treatments.

14
 The following formula was used:

R1 + R2+ R3+R4
x=
4

Where: x= mean

R1=Replicate 1, R2=Replicate 2, R3=Replicate 3, R4=Replicate 4

2. Insect Count/Number of Insect

Insect count was done using the Simple Random Sampling wherein every plant had

an equal chance to be included in the sample. In each plot, the plants were assigned with

their corresponding numbers. Out of fifteen plants in each plot, ten plants were selected

using draw lots.

Every two weeks each plant was observed if there were insects. Eggplant insects

were counted one by one and were removed away from the plants. The mean of insects was

obtained and tabulated properly.

The following formula was used:

R1 + R2+ R3+R4
x=
4

Where: x= mean

R1=Replicate 1, R2=Replicate 2, R3=Replicate 3, R4=Replicate 4

15
 3. Number and Weight of Damaged and Undamaged Fruits

In getting the yield of eggplants, same procedure was done as to insect count. The

harvested fruits were examined whether it was damaged or undamaged fruits. The fruits

were then sorted and counted. The weight in grams of damaged fruits and undamaged fruits

was obtained using a 10 kilogram weighing scale. The data for each treatment were

recorded. The data were analyzed to determine the difference of the number and weight of

damaged and undamaged fruits. The average number of damaged and undamaged fruits

and the weight of damaged and undamaged fruits per treatment were obtained by using the

mean formula.

R1 + R2+ R3+R4
x=
4

Where: x= mean

R1=Replicate 1, R2=Replicate 2, R3=Replicate 3, R4=Replicate 4

Statistical Analysis

The data were arranged and analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in

Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four treatments and four replications

for Solanum melongena L. Comparison among means was done using the Duncan’s

Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% level of significance.

16
 Collecting and Planting of Eggplant Seeds
on a Seed Bed

Land Preparation

Preparing and Setting the Mulching Materials

Transplanting of Eggplant on Prepared Plots

17
 Data Gathering

Statistical Analysis

Figure 1. Flow diagram of the experimental study

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The following observations were made as the result of the experiment conducted to

determine the comparison of the three different mulching materials for growing eggplants.

All the data gathered were analyzed following the Randomized Complete Block Design

(RCBD). Treatments mean scores were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test

(DMRT) at 5% level of significance.

Population of weeds

Monitoring and assessment on the population of weeds was done two weeks after

transplanting of eggplant and every two weeks thereafter using hand weeding. Presented in

table 1 is the analyzed data of the population of weeds.

Table 1. Population of weeds per plot

18
 OBSERVATIONS DATES CUMULATIVE
TREATMENTS
14 DAT 28DAT 42DAT 56DAT 70DAT POPULATION
T1-Rice Straw 8c 41b 66b 55b 54b 224
T2-Black Plastic 31b 12c 41b 42b 35b 161
b b b b b
T3-White Old- sack 34 51 67 53 51 256
a a a a a
T4-Control 257 645 1574 1398 1444 5318
Means in column having the common letter are not significant
DAT- Days after Transplanting

The significantly lower population of weeds was obtained from plot with black

plastic mulch compared to the rest of the treatments. However, plots with rice straw mulch

and white sack mulch were obtained significantly lower population of weeds compared to

plots without mulch. Obviously plots without mulch obtained highest number of weeds.

According to L. Larson (2010), the black plastic mulch can prevent the germination

of annual weeds and has the potential to increase crop production of black currant and can

also effectively suppress weeds.

Population of Insects

Monitoring of insect was done by visual counting three weeks after transplanting

and every two weeks thereafter. There were 10 randomly assigned sample plants in each

plot. Presented in Table 2 is the analyzed data of population of insects.

Table 2. Population of insects based from 10 sample plants per plot

OBSERVATIONS DATES CUMULATIVE

TREATMENTS
21 DAT 35 DAT 49 DAT POPULATION

T1-Rice Straw 10b 10b 8b 28

T2-Black Plastic 4c 4c 4c 12
T3-White Old- sack 9b 9b 8b 26
T4-Control 15a 23a 31a 69
Means in column having the common letter are not significant.

19
DAT- Days after Transplanting

The significantly lowest cumulative population of insects was obtained from plot

with black plastic mulch compared to other treatments. Plots with rice straw mulch and

white sack were not significantly different from each other but obtained lower population

of insects compared to plots without mulch.

Number and Weight of Undamaged and Damaged Fruits

The number and weight of undamaged and damaged fruits was done at harvest until

three primings. The weight in grams of undamaged fruits and damaged fruits was obtained

using a 10 kilogram weighing scale. Presented in Table 3 is the analyzed data of number

and weight of damaged and undamaged fruits.

Table 3. Number and weight of damaged and undamaged fruits based from 10 sample
plants per plot
No. of Weight of No. of Weight of
TREATMENTS Undamaged Undamaged Damaged Damaged
Fruits Fruits Fruits Fruits
T1-Rice Straw 29c 1471b 12a 384b
T2-Black Plastic 56a 2415a 6b 221c
T3-White Old- sack 29b 1225c 14a 561a
T4-Control 21b 986d 15a 630 a
Means in column having the common letter are not significant.
DAT- Days after Transplanting

Number of undamaged fruits

The significantly highest number of undamaged fruits was obtained from plot with

black plastic mulch compared to the rest of the treatments (see in Table 3). Moreover, plots

20
with rice straw mulch and white sack gained higher number of undamaged fruits compared

to plot without mulch.

Weight of undamaged fruit

The heaviest weight of undamaged fruit was obtained from plot with black plastic

mulch compared to rice straw mulch, white sack mulch and plot without mulch (see in

Table 3). But plot with rice straw mulch and white sack mulch obtained heavier weight of

undamaged fruit compared to plot without mulch.

Number of damaged fruit

Significantly lower number of damaged fruits was obtained from plots with black

plastic mulch, rice straw mulch, and white sack mulch compared to plot with out mulch

(see in Table 3).

Weight of damaged fruit

The weight of damaged fruit gathered from plot with black plastic mulch was

significantly lower compared to other treatments (see in Table 3). There was no significant

difference in the weight of damaged fruit that was observed from plots with rice straw

mulch and white sack mulch but gave significantly lower weight of damaged fruit

compared to plot without mulch.

21
 CONCLUSIONS

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

a. The Treatment 2-Black plastic was the most effective mulch for growing eggplant in

terms of controlling of weeds, insect count, number of undamaged and damaged fruits

and weight of undamaged fruits.

b. Treatment 1-Rice Straw and Treatment 3-White Old Sack were not significantly

different in terms of controlling of weeds, insect count, number of undamaged and

damaged fruits and weight of undamaged fruits.

RECOMMENDATIONS

22
 The Comparison of Different Mulching Materials for Growing Eggplant (Solanum

melongena L.) made by the researchers is still open for improvements. The proponents

would like to recommend further modifications on the following.

1. Use of other mulching materials such as barks, leaves and sawdust.

2. As much as possible, conduct this study on warm season.

3. Use of other test plants such as tomatoes.

4. Since only four kinds of data were gathered, include the data in gathering the soil

moisture.

LITERATURE CITED

Acayen, M. T. C. (2005-2006). Dried Papaya Leaves as Organic Mulch for Tomato

Plants. Bato Balani, 25(1), 16-18.

Chullakaset,V. 1972. “Evaluation of the need for mulching weed and insect control on
the bulb Onion,” Unpublished Undergraduate Thesis. Central Luzon State
University.

East-West-Seed Philippines. (n.d.). Domino Eggplant. Retrieved 2005, from http://

www.eastwestseed.com/images/productcat_PH.html

Insect Pest Management. Http://www.avrdc.org/LC/eggplant/eprodution/12i.htm

Larson, L.(2010). Evaluation of Mulching in Organically Grown Black Currant (Ribes

nigrum) in terms of its Effect on the Crop and the Environment: Organic
Agriculture Centre of Canada (OACC). Retrieved 2010 , from http://
www.organicagcentre.ca/ResearchDatabase/res_mulch_blackcurrant.asp

Mulching. 1979. United States. Rodale Press Incorporation.

Natural Resources Conservation Service. (2000). Straw Mulching. Retrieved August

2000, from http://

23
 74.6.116.140/search/srpcache?
ei=UTF8&p=mulching+using+rice+straw&rd=r1&meta=vc%3Dph&fr=yfp-t-
955&fp_ip=ph&u=http://cc.bingj.com/cache.aspx?
q=mulching+using+rice+straw&d=4821551881848471&mkt=en-US&setlang=en-
US&w=f994ad3b,34aadcf&icp=1&.intl=us&sig=lD80crvknL_balvhQdgjVA--

Premier Star Company. (n.d.). The Gardeners Network: how to grow eggplant. Retrieved
1999-2005, from http://www.gardenersnet.com/vegetable/eggplant.htm

Thomas, A. R. 1972. “Effect of rice straw mulch and frequency offhand weeding on the
growth and yield of Batanes onion,” Unpublished Undergraduate Thesis. Central
Luzon State University.

Webster's New dictionary (11th ed.). (1997).United States of America: American

BookWorks
Corporation Production.

Webster's Third New International Dictionary (5th ed.). (1986).United States of America:
American BookWorks Corporation Production.

24
 APPENDIX TABLES

Appendix Table 1. Means of the Data Gathered in Population of Weeds per plot

Second fourth
First Data Third Data Fifth Data
TREATMENTS Data Data
Gathered Gathered Gathered
Gathered Gathered
T1- Rice Straw 7.75 41 66.25 55.25 53.5

T2- Black Plastic 30.75 11.75 41 41.75 34.75

T3- White Old
33.5 51.25 67.25 53.25 51
Sack
T4- Control 257.25 645.25 1574.25 1397.5 1444.25

25
Appendix Table 2. Means of the Data Gathered in Population of Insects based from 10
Sample Plants per plot

First Data Second Data Third Data

TREATMENTS
Gathered Gathered Gathered
T1- Rice Straw 10 10 7.75

T2- Black Plastic 4.25 3.75 3.5

T3- White Old
9.25 8.75 8
Sack
T4- Control 15 22.75 31

Appendix Table 3. Means for number and weight of damaged and undamaged fruits
based from 10 sample plants per plot

Number of Number of Weight of Weight of

TREATMENTS Damaged Undamaged Damaged Undamaged
Fruits Fruits Fruits Fruits
T1- Rice Straw 12 28.75 383.75 1471.25

T2- Black Plastic 6.25 55.5 221.25 2415

T3- White Old 1225

13.5 29.25 561.25
Sack
T4- Control 15.25 20.75 630 986.25

26
Appendix Table 4. ANOVA for the Data Gathered in the Population of Weeds per plot

Gathering of SOURCE OF
df SS MS Fcalc
Data VARIATION
Replicates 3 107.1875 35.7292
Treatments 3 164816.1875 54938.7292 1670.08**
1st gathering
Ex. Error 9 296.0625 32.8958
Total 15 165219.4375
Replicates 3 610.6875 203.5625
Treatments 3 1121797.1875 373932.3958 3170.22**
2nd gathering
Ex. Error 9 1061.5625 117.9514
Total 15 1123469.4375
Replicates 3 14448.6875 4816.2292
Treatments 3 6897296.1875 2299098.7292 498.39**
3rd gathering
Ex. Error 9 41517.5625 4613.0625
Total 15 6953262.4375

27
 Replicates 3 7376.1875 2458.7292
Treatments 3 5447019.6875 1815673.2292 843.23**
4th gathering
Ex. Error 9 19379.0625 2153.2292
Total 15 5473774.9375

Replicates 3 5537.2500 1845.7500

5th gathering Treatments 3 5862643.2500 1954214.4167 1191.17**
Ex. Error 9 14765.2500 1640.5833
Total 15 5882945.7500
**highly significant

Appendix Table 5. ANOVA for the Data Gathered in the Population of Insects per plot

Gathering of SOURCE OF
df SS MS Fcalc
Data VARIATION
Replicates 3 1.2500 35.7292
Treatments 3 232.2500 54938.7292 1670.08**
1st gathering
Ex. Error 9 12.2500 32.8958
Total 15 245.7500
Replicates 3 7.1875 203.5625
Treatments 3 785.1875 373932.3958 3170.22**
2nd gathering
Ex. Error 9 19.0625 117.9514
Total 15 811.4375
Replicates 3 6.6875 4816.2292
Treatments 3 1864.1875 2299098.7292 498.39**
3rd gathering
Ex. Error 9 41.0625 4613.0625
Total 15 1911.9375

28
**highly significant

Appendix Table 6. ANOVA for Number and Weight of damaged and undamaged fruits
based from 10 sample plants per plot

Data SOURCE OF
df SS MS Fcalc
Gathered VARIATION
Replicates 3 5.5000 1.8333
Number of Treatments 3 182.5000 60.8333 15.64**
damaged Ex. Error 9 35.0000 3.8889
Total 15 223.0000
Replicates 3 15.1875 5.0625
Number of Treatments 3 2748.6875 916.2292 77.75**
undamaged Ex. Error 9 106.0625 11.7847
Total 15 2869.9375
Replicates 3 5879.6875 1959.8958
Weight of Treatments 3 405954.6875 135318.2292 49.05**
damaged Ex. Error 9 24826.5625 2758.5069
Total 15 436660.9375
Weight of Replicates 3 57931.2500 19310.4167

29
 Treatments 3 4700956.2500 1566985.4167 128.79**
undamaged Ex. Error 9 109506.2500 12167.3611
Total 15 4868393.7500
**highly significant

30
31
Land Preparation

32
Preparing and Setting the Mulching Materials
(Treatment 1-Rice Straw)

33
Preparing and Setting the Mulching Materials
(Treatment 2-Black Plastic)

34
Preparing and Setting the Mulching Materials
(Treatment 3-White Old Sack)

35
Preparing and Setting the Mulching Materials
(Treatment 4-Control-unmulched)

36
Transplanting of Eggplant on Prepared Plots

37
Gathering of Weeds

38
Data Gathering for Insects

39
Harvesting of Eggplant Fruits per Treatment

40
 Weighing of Eggplant Fruits

CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: John Brian A. Cali

Nickname: Brian
Address: #52 Zone 2 Brgy. Sarroca Licaong Science City of Muñoz Nueva Ecija
Date of Birth: April 8, 1994
Father: Adonis Q. Cali
Mother: Myrna A Cali
Brother(s): none
Sister(s): Jam Bernadette A. Cali
Hobbies: playing badminton, volleyball, soccer and watching television
Favorite Subject(s): Research II, English and Math
Ambition: to be a successful doctor

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y. 2007- present

41
 b. Elementary

Sto. Tomas Elementary School

S.Y. 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

Sto. Tomas Elementary School

S.Y. 2000-2001

HONORS/AWARDS RECEIVED

High School
1st place- Slogan Making Contest
S.Y. 2008-2009

1st Year- 3rd Honor

S.Y. 2007-2008

Elementary
Grade 6- Salutatorian
S.Y. 2006-2007

1st place- Sports Writing Filipino

S.Y. 2006-2007

5th place Finalist- Science Quiz Bee

S.Y. 2006-2007

2nd place- Science Trail

S.Y. 2006-2007

42
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Mar Jerome C. Tomas

Nickname: Jerome
Address: Mabini St. Pob. East, Science City of Muñoz Nueva Ecija
Date of Birth: September 28, 1994
Father: Marcelino Tomas
Mother: Josephine Tomas
Brother(s): Marc Lester Tomas, Jacob Tomas
Sister(s): none
Hobbies: watching television,sleeping
Favorite Subject(s): Science, Mathematics and English
Ambition: to be a successful pilot or astronaut

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y. 2007- present

43
 b. Elementary

Muñoz Central School

S.Y. 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

Little Lamb Foundational Learning Center

S.Y. 1999-2001

HONORS/AWARDS RECEIVED

High School
1st place- Division Population Quiz
S.Y. 2010-2011

3rd year- 5th honor

S.Y. 2009-2010

2nd place- Arnis Likha Anyo Synchronized double baston (Regional Level)
S.Y. 2009-2010

2nd place- Arnis Full Contact Flyweight Division (Regional Level)

S.Y. 2009-2010

2nd year- 4th Honor

S.Y. 2008-2009

3rd place- Arnis Full Contact Flyweight Division (Regional Level)

S.Y. 2008-2009

44
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Jeremy P. Palada

Nickname: Jeremy, Je
Address: Pob. East Tomas Subd. Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija
Date of Birth: February 10, 1994
Father: Jaime s. Palada
Mother: Ma. Theresa P. Palada
Brother(s): John Adrian P. Palada
Sister(s): Jennelyn P. Palada & Jean P. Palada
Hobbies: playing basketball, watching television
Favorite Subject(s): Mathematics
Ambition: to be a successful I.T

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y. 2007- present

45
 b. Elementary

Muñoz Central School

S.Y. 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

United Methodist Church

S.Y. 2000-2001

HONORS/ AWARDS RECEIVED

High School
SSG President (Division)
S.Y. 2010-2011

SSG President (School)

S.Y. 2010-2011

Silver Medalist in Anyo Competition in CLRAA

S.Y. 2009-2010

SSG Major Officer

S.Y. 2009-2010

SSG 2nd year Representative

S.Y. 2008-2009

MTAP Elimination
S.Y. 2007-2008

Elementary
Grade 6- 4th Honorable mention
S.Y. 2006-2007

46
 Grade 5- MTAP elimination
S.Y. 2005-2006

Grade 4- MTAP elimination

S.Y. 2004-2005

Grade 1- 3rd Honor

S.Y. 2001-2002

CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Princess R. Belgica

Nickname: Cess
Address: #399, Zone 6 Brgy. Sto. Tomas San Jose City, Nueva Ecija
Date of Birth: October 18, 1994
Father: Nilo A. Belgica
Mother: Olivia R. Belgica
Brother(s): Patrick R. Belgica, Lester Kenneth R. Belgica
Sister(s): Danica Joy R. Belgica
Hobbies: watching movies, drawing, surfing the net
Favorite Subject(s): Research II, Analytic Geometry, Calculus and English
Ambition: to be a successful civil engineer

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y. 2007- present

47
 b. Elementary

Sto. Tomas Elementary School

S.Y. 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

Sto. Tomas Elementary School Day Care Center Service

S.Y. 2000-2001

HONORS/AWARDS RECEIVED

High School
2nd place- Slogan Making Contest (School Level)
S.Y. 2008-2009

Elementary
2nd place- Science Quiz Bee (School Level)
S.Y. 2006-2007

3rd place- News Writing Filipino

S.Y. 2006-2007

2nd place- Science Trail (District)

S.Y. 2006-2007

2nd place- Essay Writing Contest

S.Y. 2006-2007

4th place- Editorial Writing (District)

S.Y. 2005-2006

Grade 1-6 – 1st Honorable Mention

48
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Glyza M. De Gracia

Nickname: Gly
Address: 517 Lucio Lopez St., Poblacion North, Science City of Muñoz Nueva Ecija
Date of Birth: March 19, 1995
Father: Francisco M. De Gracia (D)
Mother: Lucena M. De Gracia
Brother(s): Frankie M. De Gracia
Sister(s): none
Hobbies: watchiong television, reading books
Favorite Subject(s): Research and English
Ambition: to be a Certified Public Accountant

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y. 2007- present

49
 b. Elementary

Muñoz North Central School

S.Y. 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

Sarat, Lumang Bayan Day Care Center

S.Y. 2000-2001

AWARDS & DISTINCTIONS

Champion- Chemistry Quiz Bee (School Level)

S.Y. 2009-2010

50
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Rose Anne P. Domingo

Nickname: Anne
Address: Brgy. Villa Cuizon, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija
Date of Birth: October 14, 1994
Father: Rolly Domingo
Mother: Nora Domingo
Brother(s): none
Sister(s): Rosalyn Domingo
Hobbies: watching television, reading stories
Favorite Subject(s): Research and Science
Ambition: to be a successful lawyer

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y. 2007- present

b. Elementary

51
 United Methodist Church Learning Center

S.Y 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

United Methodist Church Learning Center

S.Y 2000-2001

HONORS/AWARDS RECEIVED

High School
Filipiniana Club President
S.Y. 2010-2011

3rd year- 4th honor

S.Y. 2009-2010

2nd year- 3rd honor

S.Y. 2008-2009

1st year- 2nd honor

S.Y. 2007-2008

Elementary
Grade 6- 4th Honor
S.Y. 2006-2007

52
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Irene Joyce Maligaya

Nickname: Irene, Joyce, Joy
Address: #940 Baloc, Sto. Domingo Nueva ecija
Date of Birth: September 9, 1994
Father: Ireneo Maligaya
Mother: Josephine Maligaya
Brother(s): Justine John Maligaya
Sister(s): Christine Joy Maligaya, Inee Jorene Maligaya
Hobbies: watching television, listening music, surfing on the internet, sleeping and texting
Favorite Subject(s): English
Ambition: to be a successful nurse

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y 2007-present

53
 b. Elementary

Baloc Elementary School

S.Y 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

St. Jerome Learning Center

S.Y 1999-2001

HONORS/AWARDS RECEIVED

High School
SSG 1st year Representative
S.Y. 2007-2008

Elementary
Girl Scout of the Year
S.Y. 2006-2007

Champion- Science Quiz Bee (School Level)

S.Y. 2006-2007

2nd place- Copyreading and Headline Writing Filipino (District)

S.Y. 2006-2007

54
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Sheila Marie Navarro

Nickname: Shei, Shiela
Address: Brgy. Calisitan, Science City of Muñoz Nueva Ecija
Date of Birth: April 19, 1995
Father: Rogelio Navarro
Mother: Norma Navarro
Brother(s): Clark Lawrence Navarro, Mark Joseph Navarro, Carl Justine Navarro
Sister(s): none
Hobbies: reading pocketbooks
Favorite Subject(s): Research and Mathematics
Ambition: to be a successful accountant

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

a. High School

Muñoz National High School

S.Y 2007-present

b. Elementary

55
 Calisitan Elementary School

S.Y 2001-2007

c. Pre- Elementary

Camia-III Calisitan Day Care Center

S.Y 2000-2001

HONORS/AWARDS RECEIVED

High School
MTAP Elimination
S.Y. 2008-2009

Elementary
Grade 6- 3rd Honor

56
57
58