Qualification Level: TESDA NC I – Sustainable Resin Induction
Crop Focus: Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.)
Objective: Identify when Agarwood trees have developed sufficient resin for harvesting, ensuring quality, yield, and sustainable practices
I. INTRODUCTION
Agarwood resin forms over months to years after inoculation or natural stress. Harvesting too early reduces quality and quantity, while delaying harvest may cause resin degradation or pest infestation.
Key Principle: Combine visual, olfactory, and quantitative indicators to determine readiness.
II. VISUAL INDICATORS
| Indicator | Description |
|---|---|
| Heartwood discoloration | Dark streaks or patches in xylem; contrasts with normal pale wood |
| Resin exudation | Sticky or gummy resin visible on wound sites or drilled holes |
| Density of wood | Resin-infused areas feel heavier and harder than non-resin wood |
| Surface cracking | Small cracks or fissures around inoculation sites may indicate resin accumulation |
| Branch or trunk swelling | Localized swelling at inoculation site often correlates with resin deposition |
III. OLFACTORY INDICATORS
- Fragrance development: Distinct agarwood scent detectable when scraping small areas of inoculated wood
- Intensity and uniformity: Stronger, more aromatic scent often indicates higher resin concentration
IV. TIME-BASED INDICATORS
| Tree Age / Time Post-Inoculation | General Guidance |
|---|---|
| Young trees (3–5 yrs) | Resin may begin forming after 6–12 months post-inoculation |
| Mature trees (≥5 yrs) | Resin accumulation peaks 12–24 months; may extend depending on inoculation method, tree health, and environment |
| Environmental factors | Dry/wet season, irrigation, and soil fertility can accelerate or delay resin maturation |
V. BIOFERTILIZER & SOIL HEALTH INDICATORS
- Trees well-nourished with biofertilizers (Biogrow, Mycoboost, VitaSoil) often show better resin distribution and intensity
- Soil with active microbial populations supports sustained resin formation
- Monitoring tree vigor and leaf health ensures resin accumulation has not compromised tree growth
VI. TESTING AND SAMPLING METHODS
- Small core sampling – Extract tiny wood cores to check resin deposition without killing the tree
- Wound scraping – Gently scrape resin from inoculation site to assess quality and quantity
- Weight / density measurement – Compare density of inoculated wood to normal wood
- Aroma evaluation – Smell for characteristic agarwood fragrance
Tip: Always minimize tree damage; use sustainable sampling for continuous resin accumulation.
VII. BEST PRACTICES FOR HARVEST READINESS
- Combine visual, olfactory, and time-based indicators for accurate assessment
- Monitor inoculated trees periodically to track resin development
- Integrate biofertilizer and irrigation records to correlate management with resin quality
- Avoid premature harvest to maximize yield and market value
- Plan selective harvesting – take resin-rich sections while leaving tree healthy for future cycles
VIII. TESDA NC I PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Learner must demonstrate ability to:
- Identify visual, olfactory, and structural indicators of resin maturity
- Assess resin accumulation without causing excessive tree damage
- Use sustainable sampling methods to guide harvest timing
- Maintain records of tree age, inoculation method, and resin quality
IX. FARMER-FRIENDLY CHECKLIST
☐ Heartwood shows dark streaks or patches
☐ Resin exudation visible at inoculation sites
☐ Wood density feels harder and heavier
☐ Aroma is strong and characteristic of agarwood
☐ Tree health remains good (leaves green, no excessive stress)
☐ Time post-inoculation aligns with expected resin accumulation
☐ Minimal, non-destructive sampling confirms resin quality
Key Takeaway: Harvest readiness is determined by a combination of visual, olfactory, structural, and temporal indicators, along with tree health and management records, ensuring high-quality resin yield while supporting sustainable, repeatable harvests.