Economically profitable cropping patterns for the rainfed lowlands
2003
Anon.
Five cropping sequences (rice-pepper-corn relay [1], rice-corn-onion [2], rice-mungbean + corn-corn [3], rice-mungbean-mungbean + corn [4], and rice-onion-mungbean + corn [5] were developed based on agroclimatic indices, pest incidence and hydrology data in Batac, Ilocos Norte [Philippines]. Sequence 5 netted the highest income of P128,301/ha, followed by (P125,787) and 1 (P110,573). Population of insect was minimal. The continuous rotation of crops also suppressed weed growth. The average water depletion from January to March was 1.94 mbgs, indicating that underground water can still support production of upland crops during these months. Using water conservation techniques like mulching can extend planting of crops until May. Soil analysis saw a decrease in organic matter levels in the soil in all cropping patterns (1.25-2.00%) compared with the 2001 level (2.00%). This implies a rapid turnover of organic matter in intensive rice-based cropping systems. Supplemental application of organic fertilizers is needed to sustain the soil for intensive crop production. The dominant cropping patterns in Ilocos Sur (rice-onion, rice-corn, and rice-vegetables) and Ilocos Norte (rice-garlic, rice-mungbean, and rice-corn) were improved to intensify the cropping system. Cost saving and yield-enhancing interventions like low seeding rate (40 kg/ha), use of certified seeds, recommended and appropriate varieties and straight row plantings were introduced for the WS [wet season] rice. Field trials showed that rice-onion-mungbean gave the highest income (P297,275/ha); rice-cabbage-onion was P256,636. In Ilocos Norte, rice-corn-garlic gave the highest income of P178,937/ha. Incomes from rice-corn-corn and rice-mungbean-corn were low because of drought. The aboveground water level reached 3.6-5.7 mbgs, which was inadequate for intensive crop diversification
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