Assessing soil fertility and challenges in organic vegetable farms: a case study in the Philippines
2023
Kai, T. | Medina, S.M. | Garcia, J.N.M. | Tsuchiya, M.C.L.
Organic agriculture is gaining momentum in the Philippines as consumers become increasingly conscious of health and environmental issues. This study investigates soil fertility parameters in organic vegetable farms located in the Sariaya, Quezon and Los Baos, Laguna [Philippines]. Analysis of soil samples collected from four different farms producing outdoor organic vegetables revealed that many soil fertility parameters fall below recommended values for organic production. Macronutrients crucial for plant growth, including nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium, were insufficient, as was the total carbon content indicative of soil organic matter. Additionally, key factors like bacterial biomass responsible for soil organic matter decomposition, as well as nitrogen and phosphorus cycling activities, were found to be inadequate. These collective results indicate that the organic plots lack the necessary fertility to support optimal organic crop growth. The insufficient fertility in these organic plots might be attributed to their recent conversion from conventional cultivation, involving the use of synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, to organic cultivation, approximately seven years ago. This shift potentially negatively impacted soil microorganisms, leading to decreased fertility levels and limited nutrient availability, hindering the ability to sustain organic production. Overall, this case study's findings emphasize the significant soil fertility challenges in these organic vegetable farms, characterized by suboptimal levels of essential macronutrients and lower bacterial biomass and cycling activities. To address these challenges and promote a more sustainable organic agricultural system, farmers and agricultural practitioners must adopt appropriate soil management practices that will enhance soil fertility and support improved microorganism populations, nutrient availability, and overall soil health for successful organic production.
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