Species: Aquilaria spp. (e.g., A. malaccensis)
Qualification Level: TESDA NC I – Sustainable Plantation Management
Focus: Nursery, Field, Plantation
I. GENERAL WATER PRINCIPLES
- Aquilaria is moderately drought-tolerant, but water stress affects growth and survival.
- Water is essential for:
- Root establishment
- Leaf expansion and photosynthesis
- Nutrient uptake
- Resin formation (controlled stress required)
- Both waterlogging and prolonged drought are harmful.
II. NURSERY REQUIREMENTS
| Stage | Watering Frequency | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seed germination | Daily or every other day | Mist or light drip | Keep medium moist, not soggy |
| Seedlings (1–3 months) | 2–3 times/week | Watering can, drip, or mist | Ensure drainage in trays/pots |
| Older seedlings (3–6 months) | 1–2 times/week | Drip / basin irrigation | Reduce frequency as roots develop |
Tips:
- Use well-draining media to prevent root rot.
- Apply water early morning or late afternoon.
- Adjust watering based on rainfall and humidity.
III. FIELD / PLANTATION REQUIREMENTS
| Growth Stage | Frequency | Quantity / Tree | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Establishment (Year 1) | 1–2 times/week | 5–10 L per tree | Critical for root anchorage and survival |
| Early growth (Year 2–3) | Every 5–7 days | 10–20 L per tree | Less frequent as roots penetrate deeper soil |
| Mature trees (Year 3+) | Every 2–3 weeks | 20–40 L per tree | Can tolerate mild drought; avoid overwatering |
| Pre-inoculation / resin induction | Moderate stress | Reduce watering slightly | Mild stress stimulates resin formation |
| Post-inoculation | Normal watering | Maintain soil moisture | Avoid waterlogging to prevent pathogen attack |
Guidelines:
- Soil moisture target: Maintain at 50–70% field capacity.
- Avoid waterlogging: Root rot and fungal diseases increase in poorly drained soils.
- Use mulch: Conserves moisture, regulates soil temperature, and promotes microbial activity.
- Irrigation method: Drip irrigation or basin method preferred; overhead sprinklers only if air circulation is good.
IV. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Soil Type
- Sandy soils: water more frequently in smaller amounts
- Loam/clay soils: water less frequently, ensure drainage
- Climate
- Dry season: increase watering frequency and volume
- Wet season: reduce irrigation; prevent waterlogging
- Nursery vs Field Transition
- Gradually reduce watering in nursery seedlings before transplanting to toughen roots
- Ensure trees are well-hardened to survive field conditions
- Biofertilizer Integration
- Soil moisture enhances microbial activity
- Biofertilizers (e.g., Biogrow, Mycoboost) require adequate water for colonization
V. WATER MANAGEMENT BEST PRACTICES
✔ Apply water uniformly across the root zone
✔ Combine irrigation with mulching
✔ Avoid frequent shallow watering—encourage deep root growth
✔ Monitor soil moisture manually or with soil moisture sensors
✔ Adjust based on plant size, age, season, and rainfall
VI. TESDA NC I PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Learner must demonstrate ability to:
- Identify water needs by growth stage
- Apply irrigation correctly in nursery and field
- Integrate water management with biofertilizer application
- Avoid water-related stress and disease
VII. FARMER-FRIENDLY CHECKLIST
☐ Soil is moist but not waterlogged
☐ Seedlings receive daily/alternate watering in trays
☐ Established trees receive deep watering less frequently
☐ Mulch applied to conserve moisture
☐ Watering schedule adjusted for rainfall and climate
☐ Soil moisture supports microbial and biofertilizer activity
This guide ensures optimal water management, promoting seedling survival, healthy growth, and high-quality resin production.