Qualification Level: TESDA NC I – Sustainable Soil Management
Crop Focus: Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.)
Objective: Optimize nutrient availability and soil biology by combining organic inputs with proper irrigation
I. PRINCIPLES
- Water is a carrier for nutrients and microbes
- Proper irrigation ensures biofertilizers colonize roots effectively
- Water activates enzymes and accelerates nutrient mineralization
- Timing is critical
- Apply biofertilizers or organic amendments when soil is moist but not saturated
- Avoid water stress during or immediately after application
- Avoid negative interactions
- Do not apply biofertilizers with excessive chemical fertilizers or during waterlogging
- Ensure uniform water distribution to prevent nutrient hotspots or leaching
- Synergy with soil biology
- Adequate soil moisture enhances microbial activity, enzyme function, and nutrient cycling
II. TYPES OF ORGANIC INPUTS
| Input Type | Purpose | Integration Method |
|---|---|---|
| Biofertilizers (Biogrow, Mycoboost, VitaSoil, EcoZyme, BioKelp) | Enhance microbial population, nutrient availability, plant growth | Soil drench, fertigation, or foliar spray depending on product |
| Compost / Farmyard manure | Provide organic matter and slow-release nutrients | Apply during land prep or as top-dressing; incorporate lightly into soil |
| Mulch / Leaf litter | Conserve soil moisture, protect soil structure | Spread 5–10 cm around base of trees, avoid covering root collar |
| Green manures / cover crops | Fix N, improve organic matter | Grow between trees; irrigate lightly to encourage decomposition |
III. IRRIGATION AND BIOFERTILIZER INTEGRATION
A. Nursery Stage
- Soil must be moist before application
- Mix biofertilizers with irrigation water (drench or mist)
- Apply every 2–3 weeks for seedlings, adjusting based on growth and soil moisture
B. Field / Plantation Stage
- Pre-irrigation
- Irrigate lightly 1–2 days before biofertilizer or organic amendment application
- Ensures microbial activity and nutrient absorption
- During irrigation
- Apply water slowly to allow infiltration and avoid runoff
- Use drip irrigation or basin method to target root zone
- Post-irrigation
- Avoid waterlogging; maintain 50–70% field capacity
- Mulch to conserve moisture and support microbial colonization
C. Fertigation
- Dilute biofertilizers in irrigation water for uniform distribution
- Use low-pressure drip lines for slow release to roots
- Avoid high-volume overhead sprinklers during biofertilizer application
IV. ORGANIC INPUT AND IRRIGATION TIMING CHART
| Stage | Input | Irrigation Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursery seedlings | Biogrow + Mycoboost | Soil moist at application | Repeat every 2–3 weeks |
| Young trees (1–2 yrs) | VitaSoil + EcoZyme | Light irrigation 1 day before; moderate after | Enhances microbial activity |
| Mature trees (3+ yrs) | BioKelp | Apply during irrigation | Supports stress tolerance and root growth |
| Mulch / compost | All stages | Irrigate immediately after application | Prevents nutrient loss and supports decomposition |
| Pre-inoculation | VitaSoil + EcoZyme | Maintain moderate soil moisture | Prepares soil for fungal inoculation |
| Post-inoculation | BioKelp | Moderate irrigation | Reduces transplant or inoculation stress |
V. BEST PRACTICES
- Check soil moisture – Avoid dry or saturated soil
- Uniform distribution – Prevent nutrient hotspots or leaching
- Avoid chemical interference – Keep biofertilizers separate from fungicides/pesticides for 7–14 days
- Monitor plant response – Look for leaf turgor, growth rate, and root health
- Mulch and cover crops – Enhance water retention and microbial activity
VI. BENEFITS OF INTEGRATION
✔ Improved nutrient use efficiency
✔ Stronger root systems and plant vigor
✔ Enhanced soil microbial diversity
✔ Reduced water and fertilizer waste
✔ Supports resin quality in Agarwood
VII. TESDA NC I PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Learner must demonstrate ability to:
- Integrate biofertilizers, compost, and mulch with irrigation schedule
- Apply organic inputs safely and effectively
- Monitor soil moisture and plant response
- Adjust water application based on soil, climate, and plant stage
VIII. FARMER-FRIENDLY CHECKLIST
☐ Soil moist before biofertilizer application
☐ Biofertilizers mixed with irrigation water when appropriate
☐ Mulch/compost applied and watered in
☐ Avoid waterlogging after application
☐ Monitor plant growth and root development
☐ Adjust irrigation frequency for rainfall and season
This framework ensures efficient, sustainable use of water and organic inputs, improving Agarwood growth, soil fertility, and resin production.