Qualification Level: TESDA NC I – Sustainable Plantation Management
Crop Focus: Aquilaria spp. (Agarwood)
Objective: Efficient water management to support growth, soil health, and sustainable production
I. PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABLE IRRIGATION
- Apply water only as needed – Avoid overwatering and waste.
- Match water supply to plant stage and soil type – Deep watering for mature trees; frequent light watering for seedlings.
- Promote water infiltration and retention – Use mulching and soil amendments.
- Protect soil biology – Proper moisture supports beneficial microbes and biofertilizers.
- Prevent erosion and runoff – Design irrigation to minimize water loss and soil degradation.
- Integrate with rainfall – Reduce irrigation during wet periods; store rainwater when possible.
II. IRRIGATION PLANNING STEPS
1. Assess Site Conditions
- Soil type and texture (sand, loam, clay)
- Topography (slope, elevation)
- Climate (rainfall, temperature, evaporation rate)
2. Determine Water Needs
- Nursery seedlings: frequent light watering
- Young field trees: moderate, deep watering
- Mature trees: deep, less frequent watering
- Special stages: Pre- and post-inoculation may require controlled moisture stress
3. Select Irrigation Method
| Method | Advantages | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Drip irrigation | Efficient, minimal evaporation | Seedlings, field trees, orchards |
| Basin irrigation | Simple, low-tech | Small plantations, uneven terrain |
| Sprinkler | Covers large area | Where soil drainage is good and air circulation sufficient |
| Manual watering | Low cost | Nursery, small-scale operations |
4. Schedule Irrigation
- Nursery: Daily or alternate day, maintain medium moisture
- Young trees (Year 1–2): 1–2 deep waterings per week
- Established trees (Year 3+): Every 2–3 weeks, deep watering
- During stress periods / pre-inoculation: Reduce watering slightly to stimulate resin
Tip: Use soil moisture sensors or simple manual checks (feel soil, check root zone moisture) to avoid under- or over-watering.
5. Integrate with Sustainable Practices
- Mulching: conserves water, moderates temperature
- Biofertilizers: moisture enhances microbial colonization and nutrient cycling
- Rainwater harvesting: capture runoff for supplemental irrigation
- Avoid waterlogging: ensures root health and reduces disease
III. WATER CONSERVATION TECHNIQUES
- Mulch & cover crops – Reduce evaporation and retain moisture.
- Contour planting / swales – Minimize runoff, maximize infiltration.
- Irrigation during cool hours – Early morning or late afternoon reduces loss.
- Rainwater storage – Tanks, ponds, or bunds for dry periods.
- Drip and micro-irrigation systems – Direct water to roots, increase efficiency.
IV. MONITORING & ADJUSTMENT
- Inspect soil moisture weekly
- Observe plant vigor: wilting, leaf color, root growth
- Adjust irrigation according to:
- Rainfall patterns
- Seasonal evapotranspiration
- Growth stage or stress conditions
- Ensure sustainability: reduce excess water usage, protect soil biology, maintain long-term fertility
V. AGARWOOD-SPECIFIC GUIDELINES
| Tree Stage | Target Soil Moisture | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery seedlings | Moist, not soggy | Frequent light watering |
| Young trees (1–2 yrs) | 50–70% field capacity | Encourage deep rooting |
| Mature trees (3+ yrs) | Moderate, 40–60% field capacity | Mild water stress for resin induction |
| Pre-inoculation | Slightly reduced | Stimulates resin response |
| Post-inoculation | Maintain adequate moisture | Avoid waterlogging to prevent pathogens |
VI. TESDA NC I PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Learner must demonstrate ability to:
- Assess irrigation needs based on soil, climate, and tree stage
- Design and implement a sustainable irrigation schedule
- Integrate irrigation with biofertilizer application
- Monitor plant response and soil moisture
- Adjust irrigation to optimize growth and conserve water
VII. FARMER-FRIENDLY CHECKLIST
☐ Soil moisture checked before irrigation
☐ Mulch applied around trees
☐ Watering method matches tree size and stage
☐ Biofertilizers applied when soil is adequately moist
☐ Rainfall considered in irrigation schedule
☐ No standing water around roots
This module ensures efficient water use, soil and plant health, and sustainable agarwood production, while supporting resin quality.