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Chapter I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L.) is a low perennial herb found in rainforest

habitats. It can grow to about two feet high, and has small white flowers and fruits. It is

often cultivated for starch obtained from its rhizome. The flour is almost similar to

cornstarch being white, fine and powdery which can be a healthier alternative. It is the

only starch product with calcium ash which is important for the maintenance of proper

acid and alkali balances in the human body (Fallon, 2000). One of its good characteristics

is that it has long shelf life and source of one of the purest carbohydrates. The starch is

highly digestible, making it a suitable ingredient in making infant foods and medicinal

tablets. Superior quality starch is used in making biscuits, pastries, cookies and other

culinary goodies (Olfato, 2010).

In Quezon Province, Catanauan, Quezon is known for arrowroot production. The

product was accorded with higher importance by declaring as the municipality’s One

Town One product- OTOP. The town is the source of flour in Region 4A and of the local

processors of Marinduque and Bulacan (Olfato, 2012). Meanwhile, the Department of

Agriculture is looking at the possibility of making arrowroot substitute for wheat flour.

On the other hand, DOST have found that 25% of arrowroot flour can effectively

substitute for 69% of corn requirements in broiler ration (PDI, 2012).

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These recognized values of arrowroot as potential substitutes necessitate

maintaining higher production in order to meet the positive increase in demand for

arrowroot starch. However, majority of farmers in Catanauan, Quezon still use the

traditional “bugsok-tanim” method. With this method, farmers do not apply fertilizer to

crop. After harvesting, the rhizomes are planted back to the field without land preparation

which usually resulted to low yield and low income due to severally small sized tubers.

Nevertheless, the Municipal Agriculture office of Catanauan, Quezon in

collaboration with PCARRD and SLSU has introduced the Science and Technology

Based Farm (STBF) selected farms in the province. However, little is known about the

importance of such approach although this is considered as better strategy for increasing

productivity of arrowroot farms. Hence, this study is conducted to evaluate the efficiency

of STBF as a production management options that could increase the yield of arrowroot

and farmer’s income from arrowroot production.

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Objectives of the Study

The study was conducted to determine which cultural practices/interventions will

increase the growth and yield performance of arrowroot in Catanauan, Quezon.

Specifically, it aimed to evaluate the following:

1. Plant height (cm)

2. Average Number of shoots per plant

3. Number of rhizomes per plant

4. Number of marketable rhizomes per plant

5. Weight (kg) of rhizomes per plant

6. Weight (kg) of marketable rhizomes per plant

7. Rhizome yield per m2 and tons/ha

8. Starch yield per kg and tons/ha

9. Number of days to flowering

10. Number of days to maturity

11. Cost and return analysis

Significance of the Study

The study of arrowroot grown into two cultural practices can be a learning

paradigm to the arrowroot farmers, municipality of Catanauan, Quezon, extension

workers and the students.

The result of the study will help the local farmers increase their productivity that

will ultimately improve their living conditions. To the municipality of Catanauan,

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Quezon, the result of the study can be a basis of practices in expanding arrowroot

production. To extension workers, the technology will be the methods to be shared to

farmers. And lastly, to the research students, may this will serve as source of information

that new findings will add to knowledge.

Scope and Limitation

This study was limited to the evaluation of the growth and yield performance of

arrowroot grown on two cultural practices in Catanauan, Quezon. The growth and yield

characteristics considered were plant height, total number of shoots, number of rhizomes,

number of marketable rhizomes, total weight of rhizomes, yield in terms ton/ha, size of

rhizome and flour recovered and return on investment. The determination of the quality

of starch in terms of physico-chemical characteristics was not considered due to the cost

of examination.

The study was conducted from June 2013 to January 2014 at Brgy. Matandang

Sabang, Silangan Catanauan, Quezon.

Definition of Terms

To understand this study more clearly, the following terms are defined:

Arrowroot-(Maranta arundinacea L.) is a low perennial herb found in rainforest habitats

which is often cultivated for starch obtained from its rhizome.

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Bugsok-tanim- is the traditional practice done by farmers of Catanauan, Quezon in

planting arrowroot. It includes the direct planting of stump after harvesting

without land preparation.

Cultural Practices- refers to the series of activities being done to the crop before

planting until it is harvested.

De–topping- is the cutting of the top leaves of the plant, excess roots before planting. It

aims to get good photosynthetic efficiency which can be increased for

advancement of crop maturity.

Good quality suckers – shoots of arrowroot which measures 20-30 cm that are excellent

to be used as planting materials.

Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) –is an outstanding farmer who demonstrates successful

application of science and technology (S&T)-based and indigenous technologies.

This farmer is an active participant, enabler, facilitator, or initiator of technology

development and transfer process.

Marketable Rhizomes – are mature rhizomes indicated by having a rounded tip. This is

mainly preferred by rhizome buyers for its high starch content.

Non-marketable Rhizomes - are mature rhizomes indicated by a pointed tip. This is

not preferred by rhizome buyers for its high fiber content.

Rhizome – is an edible and harvestable part of arrowroot found in the creeping roots of

the plant.
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Starch – is the white powder obtained from the rhizome after it undergoes washing,

grinding, soaking, settling, and drying.

Science and Technology Based Farming (STBF) – a collaborative project of SLSU,

DA, STARRDEC, PCAARRD and DOST using the developed Technology to

showcase its importance and benefits to farmers to increase productivity and

income. The practice follows a complete land preparation (plowing, harrowing,

furrowing), planting distance of 30 x 75 cm and applies vermicompost based on

soil analysis.

Stump – arrowroot plant remnants after harvest. This is utilized in farmer’s practice as

planting materials every cropping.

Traditional Farmer’s Practice – is a practice of producing arrowroot following the

“bugsok-tanim” no planting distance used and without fertilizer application.

Vermicompost- is an organic fertilizer/product of decomposition of farm wastes, such as

animal manure and crop residues with the aid of African night crawler.

Vernier Caliper – a measuring device used in getting the diameter of the rhizomes

Weeding – it is the removal of unnecessary plants in the field.

Yield – is the weight of harvested rhizomes in terms of tons/ha. It also pertains to the

amount of starch recovered in kg.

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Chapter II

REVIEW OF LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This reviewed literatures on arrowroot production. It is composed of local and

foreign studies. The common farming practice on both traditional and STBF included in

these studies were proper land preparation, planting distance and materials, fertilization,

and post-harvest technologies. Factors and their effects on arrowroot production are vital

in understanding the yield in Catanauan, Quezon.

Arrowroot Production in Catanauan, Quezon

Planting of arrowroot used by the farmers is not standardized. Farmers may

include land preparations if it is not tilled yet. They planted arrowroot using the “bugsok-

tanim” method without fertilization wherein after harvesting there will be no land

preparation. They plant back the rhizome in the same soil where it was harvested and

harvest it again in the next season (Aloudia Rey, 2013).

Science and Technology Based Farm (STBF)

Science and Technology Based Farm is farmer’s farm that demonstrates the

effectiveness of S&T interventions in improving productivity and income of farmers.

Where, S&T intervention refers to the recommended and established cultural practices of

a crop. Through the S&T Based Farms, specific gaps in the farmer’s practice are

identified and addressed through the supply chain analysis (PCAARRD, 2009).
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It was proven that application of the different components of Science and

Technology Based interventions increase the yield, and income can be generated of

different crops. According to PCAARRD (2009), in ubi production in Bohol, significant

increase was observed from 5.4 tons/ha to 12.4 tons/ha. Furthermore, S&T technology in

other crops like banana increased the yield by 22.89% for saba and 20% for lakatan with

improved fruit quality. Another S&T in peanut production able to three-fold the farmers

income in only one cropping (PCAARRD, 2009).

Arrowroot Production

In Quezon, arrowroot is mainly cultivated in Catanauan. The crop is grown

mostly in semi-cultivated region where rainfall is uniformly distributed throughout the

year. Taxonomically, there is no distinct variety of arrowroot. However, Quezon

Agricultural Experimental Station has so far collected different strains of arrowroot

namely: Cuenca strain, San Pablo strain and a foreign one from Africa. Calauan strain

was discovered in 1962 at coconut grove in Calauan, Laguna (Gonzaga and Candelaria,

2012).

Most of the time, this crop is not domesticated but just grows wildly in the

different parts of the mountain. However, if given the necessary care and management,

this crop can produce a yield ranging from 27-29 tons per hectare. When planted under

coconut or intercropped with fruit trees, arrowroot produce at least 65 % of what it

normally yields (Gonzaga, 1988). In addition, arrowroot strains in Bicol, Quezon and
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Palawan have almost the same characteristics which yielded 17 tons of tubers under

partial shading (Tabinga, 1982).

In the study by Malinis and Pacardo (2012), it has been stated that analysis of

arrowroot reveals the following contents: starch (27.17%); fiber fat, albumen, sugar, gum,

ash and water (62.83%). However, in India, the proximate analysis of fresh rhizome

includes: 63.4% moisture, starch 25-30% sugar and dextrin – 2.19%, crude fiber – 3.9%

and ash 0.9% (Matthews, 2008).

Arrowroot starch is white, odorless and tasteless either in the form of powder or

in more or less aggregate masses which rarely exceed a pea in size. The bitter resinous

substance in the skin of the rhizome can be removed by peeling for the preparation of

starch (Matthews, 2008).

The starch is obtained from the rhizomes or underground stems of several tropics

herbs. The perennial plant produces genuine arrowroot of as large as 20–40 cm or 9–14

inches rhizomes. It is usually grown in a loamy type soil and the climatic requirements

are warm and moist. It requires 8–10 months growing period before it is harvested

(Mathews, 2008). As for in India, arrowroot matures in 7 months and also considers

drying of leaves and lodging of stems as indication of maturity (Alexander, 2009).

It is an effective substitute for corn in broiler ration. A 25% level of arrowroot

meal formulation proved to be the best ration for broiler replacing 69% of the yellow

corn in poultry ration (Olfato, 2010)

Plant spacing greatly affects the production of small and large sized tubers. In the

result of the study by Getachew et. al. (2013) at 10 cm plant spacing 5.50 small size
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tubers were produced. At closer spacing there could be strong competition among plants

for resources and reduced photo assimilate production and redistribution to the tubers and

finally highest number of small sized tubers were produced. Dwelle and Love )1993) also

concluded that in closer plant spacing, bulking rates and individual tubers decreased and

these result in smaller tubers. Similarly Oliveira (2000) reported that more number of

small sized tubers was produced by reducing plant spacing. While the highest number of

large sized tuber 6.33 was obtained in the interaction between the wider plant spacing of

40 cm. This could be due to the fact hilling up during the active growth of the plant

improve the soil condition for nutrient absorption and also at wider plant spacing due to

the presence of minimum completion; plants absorbed the sufficiently available resources

and increased their photosynthetic efficiency that ultimately increased the number of

large sized tubers. The current result is in consistency with the work or Gulluoglu and

Arioglu (2009) who compared that, the percentage of large tubers in total yield was

increased with widening plant spacing. Similarly, Yenagi et. al. (2003), Essah et. al.

(2004) and Tafi et. al. (2010), also reported that the production of large tubers increased

in wider spacing due to less competition of nutrients and moisture compared to closer

spacing. Qadir et. al. (1999), also confirmed that hilling up at 15 days after planting result

in better yield and overall plant performance.

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Cultural Requirements and Practices of Arrowroot

Arrowroot thrives anywhere in the Philippines provided there is enough moisture

in the soil for its normal growth and development. It grows best in places where rainfall

is uniformly distributed throughout the year. The rhizomes are resistant to inclement

weather and can stay long under the soil. They germinate in the same area where they

have been planted. The plant requires a friable, well drained loamy soil. However, soil at

the foot of the hills, in valley and newly opened areas are preferable. Clayey soil must be

avoided since it induce poor rhizome development and usually cause the deformation of

the rhizome which tends to break during harvesting. It is advisable to plant this crop in

open fields provided there is sufficient moisture throughout its growing period. Planting

in partially shaded areas can also be done but with reduce yield. Arrowroot prefers soils

that are well plowed and harrowed two to three times depending upon the soil structure.

Plowing deep enough provides favorable condition for better root development.

Arrowroot can be propagated by suckers and rootstock or rhizomes with two or more

nodes each. However, two suckers may be planted to a hill at a distance of 1.0 x 0.75

meters. Under poor soil condition, the hills should set closer about 0.75 x 0.30 meters

apart. Irrigation is not needed during the early stage of growth as long as there is enough

moisture in the soil. The crop responds well to fertilization. In a study conducted at

UPLB, yield of 18.47 tons and 26.73 tons were harvested when 90 kg/ha and 180 kg ha

of nitrogen were applied respectively, while the control yielded only 12.15 tons /ha.

Compost or commercial fertilizer can be applied to the plant. An application of

300 to 400 kg of 14-14-14 per hectare is recommended. Weeding and cultivation is

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normally done simultaneously during the first three to four months, depending upon the

weed population in the field. Hilling-up and off-barring is employed alternately until the

plants are big enough to cover spaces between rows (Gonzaga, 1998).

In St. Vincent’s soil condition, Sandy loam soils that are high in minerals are

suited for arrowroot production. It is propagated with field spacing of 75 x 37.5 cm and

has been recommended that the crop should receive an 8 – 5 – 14 NPK mixture at the rate

of 900 kg/ha, 14 weeks after transplanting. Rhizomes usually mature 10 -11 months from

transplanting. It is ready for harvest when leaves begins wilt and die down. Yields of

rhizomes normally average from 12.5 t/ha, under favorable conditions it can yield as high

as 31t/ha and recover about 8 – 16% of starch (Greenstone, 2011).

Arrowroot Production in India

In India, rhizomes are usually used as planting materials. Small pieces of

rhizomes of size 4-7 cm with 2-4 nodes known as bits are used for planting. About 3000-

5000kg of bits are required to plant one hectare. The soil should be brought to a fine tilt

by deep plowing prior to the onset of monsoon. The bits are planted 5-7.5 cm deep and

about 30x30 cm apart in raised beds of 15-20 cm height, 50 cm breadth and convenient

length. However, trials revealed that the planting space of 30x15 cm produced

significantly higher tuber yield (Matthews, 2008).

Suckers are occasionally used for planting. Thin rhizome or cigar roots are

planted for the shoots to come up within 15 days. Suckers are separated from the clump

at harvest and planted at 30-45 cm apart in the nursery during off season. These suckers
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give rise to new plants, which are uprooted and the canopy cut-off to retain 10cm of the

shoot intact with roots. The field should be kept clean and free from weeds during the

first 3-4 months. Earthling-up or hilling up should be done along with weeding. Mulching

with green or dry leaves is essential after planting. The crop is planted during the last

week of May or June with the onset of rains and grown as a rainfed crop. If a dry spell

occurs during the first 3-4 months, supplementary irrigation at weekly intervals should be

given, optimum soil moisture throughout the growing period is essential for good yield.

Flowers are nipped off as they appear (Matthews, 2008)..

The use of 10tons/ha of Farmyard manure or compost is recommended for

arrowroot. Arrowroot grown as a pure crop recorded maximum yield, when NPK was

applied 150–75-150 kg/ha respectively. Different growth characters like plant height,

number of leaves, number of suckers and leaf area were at maximum at higher levels of

N and K. Quality characters like starch, protein and crude fiber were increased by higher

levels of nitrogen. Increase in potassium levels had a positive effect on starch and protein

contents but fiber content showed a declining trend (Matthews, 2008).

The rhizomes are ready for harvest by 10-12 months after planting. Maturity for

harvest is indicated by yellowing and wilting of leaves. At this time, the stems fall over or

lodge. Harvesting is done by digging up the plants and separating rhizomes from the

leafy stems. The maximum starch at 12 months but the rhizomes turn more fibrous and

are difficult to extract the starch. Rhizomes are harvested 10-11 months after planting.

After 12 months period, starch content declines and the sugar content increases. Yields

vary enormously and range from 7.5-37t/ha (Matthews, 2008).

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Extraction of Starch

Rhizome is the economic part used for production of starch. The rhizome is

washed and cleaned. Tips of rhizomes, which are poor in starch, are cut off and the rest of

the material is peeled and pulped. The pulped rhizome is mixed with water and strained

through a coarse cloth to remove fiber and other impurities. The milky fluid is collected

in glazed tanks and the starch is allowed to settle. Re-suspension and Re-settling are done

several times. It may be done by centrifuging. The starch deposited is dried under the sun

or in low temperature driers. The product is stored in closed moisture proof containers.

Chlorination of water helps to prevent bacterial fermentation. The starch is graded on the

basis of color, ash pulp, and fiber. Good quality starch should contain maximum moisture

content of 13.0% only, total ash of 0.3%, and insoluble ash of 0.1% and pH of 4.5-7

(Matthews, 2008).

Growth and Yield of Arrowroot

A study by Salvacion (1992) in Catanuan, Quezon as cited by Olfato (2010),

showed an average rhizome yield of 14.015 tons/hectare. In the same year, the yield

obtained by Goma (1993) showed 12.70 tons/hectare in the trials made in Laguna. This

shows that this crop has the potential of giving high yield by following improved package

of technology and appropriate fertilization strategy.

A study was done by Olfato (2010) for two cropping seasons in Matandang

Sabang Silangan and Matandang Sabang Kanluran, Catanauan, Quezon to improve the

cultural management practices of arrowroot. During the first cropping, Matandang

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Sabang Silangan yielded 21.2 tons/ha and recovered 1,735.1 kg of flour. In Matandang

Sabang Kanluran, arrowroot obtained an average yield of 8.9 tons/ha and recovered 600.8

kg of flour. During the second cropping, Matandang Sabang Silangan obtained a yield of

33.6 tons/ha and recovered 2665.4 kg of flour. In Matandang Sabang Kanluran, arrowroot

obtained an average yield of 22.5 tons/ha and recovered 1751.2 kg of flour. These results

prove that improved cultural management practices of arrowroot such as: 1) land

preparation to include one-time plowing and two times harrowing, 2) use of new

planting materials (suckers) every cropping season, 3) cutting of the top leaves and the

excess roots of the suckers before planting, 4) fertilization of organic fertilizer based soil

analysis, 5) planting of 3 suckers in triangular manner in one hill, 6) using the planting

distance of 50x30cm, and 7) weeding of 2-3 times during the cropping, are effective to

increase the yield.

In the study by Malinis and Pacardo in Bicol (2012), arrowroot was planted on a

14m x 28m area with 16 plots of 3.5m x 7m dimension. It was planted with a planting

distance of 50cm x 30cm in a sandy loam type soil and was tested for shaded and open to

sunlight. The arrowroot yielded 2.5 kg/m2 or 25 tons/ha in open area and 1.7kg/m2 or 20

tons/ha was noticed in shaded area.

Arrowroot Technology and Mechanization in Processing

In the study made by Malinis and Pacardo (2012) on the Adaption of arrowroot

processing technologies developed by Bicol University College of Agriculture and

Forestry in Albay in 2004, Processing plant analysis showed a capacity of Php1000

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kg/day with starch recovery of 12-14%, machine efficiencies ranges from 86 to 99%. The

operational cost of the processing system was at Php7.00/kg to include Php2.00/kg from

washing to water removal, drying at Php1.50/kg, and buying price of Php5.00/kg for

fresh tubers. Economic analysis resulted to an ROI of 42.53% at 960 hours annual use.

Added value per kg of processed arrowroot is at Php2.20/kg excluding by-products. The

processing arrowroot is technically and economically feasible in producing quality starch.

Processing Technology reported that the rhizomes were washed and the skin

scales were carefully peeled from the white fleshy core, otherwise they impart a bitter

taste to the final product. The peeled rhizomes were washed again and grated into a

coarse pulp. The pulp is then mixed with a large quantity of clean water and the mixture

passed over a series of sieving to separate fiber. The liquid is allowed to stand and the

starch out on long tables. The starch is removed from the tables mixed with more water

and resettled overnight. The lumps of starch are placed on racks to air-dry, a process

which can take from 4 – 14 days according to the weather and which can result in the

material. After drying, lumps of starch are pulverized and prepared for marketing in

different grades according to viscosity ratings. It is packed in moisture proof bags

(Malinis and Pacardo 2012).

In the large scale processing, the arrowroot tubers are thoroughly washed in

special tanks. They are then cut into small pieces, rasped and crushed into a pulp. The

pulp is passing in a continuous flow of water then a series of three vibrator sieves. The

starch milk then goes through to the separator. The residues remaining on the sieves are

crushed and sieved twice more to effect the maximum extraction of starch the resultant
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starch milk is passed to the separator. The separator divides the starch from the water

within four minutes and is next mixed with fresh water, passed through a fine sieve of

120 mesh wire cloth and recentrifuge. The starch is then combined with fresh water,

treated with sulfuric acid and fed into settling tanks. After the starch has settled, the

supernatant liquid is run off and the upper layers of sediment are washed away by

vigorous hosing to remove as much residual fibrous tissue as possible. The starch is then

dried in low

Temperature 131 -150ºF (55 – 60ºC) driers for 4-11 days to a moisture content of

approximately 17 percent or slightly less. When dry, the starch is pulverized and packed

(Malinis and Pacardo 2012).

According to Olfato (2010), washing is very important in the processing of

arrowroot flour. In small-scale technology, rhizomes are washed several times before

grated into a coarse pulp. Large quantity of water is also needed when mixing the pulp.

While in large-scale technology, water is needed in large amount. Pulps need continuous

flow of water in a series of three vibratory sieves. The starch is always mixed with fresh

water when settling the final product.

As cited by Olfato (2010), Malinis (2006) reported that mechanization technology

solves the laborious and tedious operation in the arrowroot flour processing. Washing,

rasping, juice extraction, drying and milling could be mechanized. Washing could be

done using mechanical washer with a washing efficiency of 92% pass into the granulator,

extraction through the multi-crop crusher and drying using the tray type dryer.
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Vermicompost as Fertilizer

Vermicompost is a stable fine granular organic matter, that when added to clay

soil, loosens the soil and provides the passage for the entry of air. The mucus associated

with the cast being hygroscopic absorbs water and prevents water logging and improves

water holding capacity; the strong mucus cast aggregates of vermicompost hold water for

longer time. The organic carbon in vermicompost releases the nutrients slowly and

steadily to the system and enables the plant to absorb these nutrients. The soil enriched

with vermicompost provides additional substances that are not available in chemicals. In

a nut shell, vermicompost improves physical, chemical and biological properties of the

soil in the long run on repeated application. The properties of vermicomposting which

make it an ideal fertilizer for the soils are; 1). Vermicompost have immobilized enzyme

like protease, lipase, amylase, cellulose, lichenase and chitinase which keep on their

function of biodegradation of macromolecules of agricultural residues in the soil so that

further microbial attack is speed u; 2). Vermicompost are rich in vitamins, antibiotics,

and growth hormones; 3) Vermicompost are free from pathogens; 4). Vermicompost have

immobilized microflora which function in the soil to produce useful products; 5).

Vermicompost have earthworm cocoons and promote earthworm population in the soil

thus ensuing continuous production of vermicompost; 6). Structural stability to the soil

and 7). Absorbs moisture from air (Gupta, 2006).

According to Sajnanath and Sushama (2004) earthworm cast contain 2 or 5 times

more organic matter, total nitrogen and exchangeable cations than the soil. The high

organic matter content in casts and digest reduces P and other nutrient elements in the
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readily available form. Rapid mineralization of organic matter and possible association of

more N fixing bacteria makes N more available form. The contribution of soil N by dead

bodies of earthworm can also be substantial. Earthworms improve soil physical

properties, especially water retention and transmission characteristics, aeration, porosity,

and pore size distribution and structural stability.

Vermicompost are effective biofertilizers containing beneficial soil micro-flora

and earthworm cocoons. The secretions of worms and the associated microbes act as

growth promoters along with other nutrients. The multifarious effect of vermicompost

influences the growth and yield of crops. When covered with a layer of mulch in the soil,

they produce an earthworm population of lakh (100,000) per acre in 3 months. Activation

of soil biology in this way is an essential component of natural farming.

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Conceptual Framework

Planting of arrowroot used by the farmers in Catanauan, Quezon is not

standardized and inappropriate. Farmers may include land preparation if the land is not

yet tilled. They plant arrowroot using the “bugsok tanim” method without fertilization

and no planting distance wherein after harvesting; there will be no land preparation. The

farmers plant back the rhizome/stump in the same soil where it was produced and harvest

it again the next season. This current practice contributes to the low productivity and

efficiency to arrowroot which further translates to low yield and income of farmers. Thus,

components of STBF practices can be an effective intervention to farmers’ practice in

arrowroot production.

The growth and yield of arrowroot will be evaluated at two cultural practices. The

expected outputs are following STBF components will increase and income of farmers.
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Arrowroot Production in
Catanauan, Quezon

 Inappropriate Cultural Management

Practices
 Low production of Arrowroot

Components of STBF is introduced

to increase the yield of farmers

Comparison on the Growth and

Yield of Arrowroot between
Farmer’s Practice and STBF

Components of STBF will

Increase:

 Rhizome Yield
 Starch Recovery
 Return on Investment

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework of Growth and Yield performance of Arrowroot (Maranta

arundinacea L.) Grown on Two Cultural Practices in Catanauan, Quezon
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Chapter III

METHODOLOGY

Research Locale

Catanauan, Quezon lies along the coastal lines of Bondoc Peninsula in the

southern part of Quezon province. It is bounded on the North by the municipality of

Lopez, on the northeast by the municipality of Buenavista ; on the east and southeast by

the municipality of Mulanay , on the south and southwest by Tayabas Bay; and on the

west and northwest by the municipality of General Luna , Quezon. It has an area of 244

square kilometers and 264.205 kilometers from Metro Manila and 128 kilometers from

the provincial capital, Lucena City. The climate of Catanauan is characterized by dry

season from March to May and rainy season from October to December. The

Municipality is affected by annual south monsoon wind from July to December.

The study was conducted in Brgy. Matandang Sabang, Catanauan, Quezon. The

site was located 3 km before the town proper of Catanauan, Quezon.

Experimental Layout and Treatment Used

A total of 5000 sq. meters area was utilized for the study. The area was divided

into two areas where the two experiments (treatment) were planted. Each area was

subdivided into 5 plots measuring 500 sq. meters each where the sample plants were

selected.
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The following are the treatments used in the study:

Treatment 1 – Traditional Farmer’s Practice

Treatment 2 – Science and Technology Based Farming

Cultural Practices

Collection of Soil Sample and Soil Analysis

Soil samples were collected last May 10, 2013. Soil sample was collected in

different parts of the area and was brought to the Bureau of Soils in Brgy. Talipan,

Pagbilao, Quezon.

Sampling Procedures

A systematic random sampling method was used to identify sample plants. This

was done by calculating the sampling interval by dividing the total number of plant

population by the required number of sample; in that case the quotient was the plant

interval. The first sample plant was identified by using draw lots of numbers 1-9. The

draw number was the first sample plant.

Preparation of Experimental Plots

An area of 2500 sq m was used for the experimental area. Land preparation was

last April 2013. The area was plowed and harrowed thoroughly. Thereafter, furrows were

made where the arrowroots were planted.

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The same area of 2500 sq m was prepared for the arrowroot that was used for

farmers’ traditional practices.

Planting Materials and Planting of Arrowroot

STBF plots

The planting materials were selected from good quality suckers having average

height of 30 cm each. De-topping was done before planting the suckers. Furrows were

prepared at a planting distance of 30 x 75 cm distance between rows and furrows

respectively (Fig. 2-3).

Traditional farmers’ practices plots

Initial land preparation was made to clean the area from weeds and unwanted

plants. Thereafter, arrowroot was planted without any pattern of spacing. (Fig. 3)

Fertilization

STBF plots

This study used vermicompost as fertilizer. The volume of application was based

on soil analysis at the rate of 8 bags/ 2500 sq. m. five bags of vermicompost were applied

as basal fertilizer last June 4, 2013 during the harrowing. The remaining three bags were

applied as side dress fertilizer two months after planting.

Traditional farmers’ practice plots

Traditional practices of growing arrowroot in Catanauan, Quezon have no

fertilization. The plants obtain nutrient from the natural fertilizer available in the farm.
 25

Weed Control/Hilling-up

STBF plots and traditional farmers’ practice plots

Simultaneous weeding and cultivation were done during the first three to four

months of growing arrowroot. Hilling-up and off-barring were done along with weeding

and employed until the plants are big enough to cover spaces between rows (Fig. 4).

Harvesting

Arrowroot was harvested 7 months after planting. Maturity of arrowroot was

indicated by yellowing and wilting of leaves. At this time the stem fall over and lodge.

Harvesting was done by cutting off the vegetative part then digging up using a crowbar

then separating rhizomes from the leafy stems (Fig. 5 - 7).

Post-harvest Handling and Storage

The harvested rhizomes have undergone curing process by air so that it will be

easier to peel. It was laid on the slated floorings of the constructed kubo for about 12

hours (Fig. 8 - 9).

Processing for Starch Recovery

The tips of the rhizomes were cut-off and the rest of the material, were peeled and

pulped. The pulped rhizomes were mixed with water and strained using a coarse cloth to

remove fibers and other impurities. The milky fluid was collected and the starch was

allowed to settle to recover the starch. After being settled and deposited, it was subjected
 26

for drying. The starch recovered from STBF and farmers’ practices was scattered on a

container of the fabricated solar dryer and dried under the sun. (Fig. 10 – 21)

Data Gathered

1. Plant height (cm)

This character was obtained from 55 sample plants per treatment. The

height was measured from the marker to the tallest leaf at a 30days interval.

2. Average number of shoots per plant

This character was obtained by counting the number of shoots per plant

taken from the same sample plants where plant height was measured.

3. Number of rhizomes and number of marketable rhizomes

This character was obtained by counting the number of rhizome and

number of marketable rhizome per plant from 4 randomly selected sample plants

in every plot of each treatment. Systematic random sampling was done in every

plot of each treatment eliminating the plants in the border of the plot. The ranges

of length and diameter of the rhizomes was taken from the obtained marketable

rhizomes per plant. Length and diameter range of the rhizomes was taken with the

use tape measure and vernier caliper.

4. Weight of rhizomes and weight of marketable rhizomes

This character was obtained with the aid of weighing scale. Same samples

were gathered as number of rhizomes and number of marketable rhizomes was

taken.
 27

5. Rhizome yield in kg/m2 and in tons per hectare

The gross total weight of rhizomes obtained from the 20 sample plants

was converted into kg/m2 and tons per hectare.

6. Starch yield in kg/m2 and tons/hectare

This was taken from the rhizomes of a plant that are not belonging from

the sample plants in each treatment. The harvested rhizomes from each treatment

were cured, peeled, cut, washed, and crushed, pulped, settled, dried and then

weighed. Weight of the recovered starch was determined with the aid of weighing

scale. The weight of the starch recovered was converted into tons per hectare and

percentage.

7. Number of days to flowering

This character was obtained by counting the number of days from planting

up to the flowering stage of the plant from each treatment.

8. Number of days to maturity

This character was obtained by counting the number of days from planting

until harvest of each treatment. Maturity was indicated by yellowing, wilting of

leaves and the stems fall over or lodge.

9. Cost and Return analysis

This data was achieved by computing the production cost of both cultural

practices. In determining the profitability, return on investment formula was used.

 28

Data Analysis

The data gathered were compared using two-tailed independent sample t-test at

0.05 and 0.01 level of significance.

𝑥2 − 𝑥1
tcomp=
(𝑁1 − 1)𝑆12 + (𝑁2 − 1)𝑆22 √ 1 1
(√ ) ( 𝑁1 𝑁2)
+
𝑁1 + 𝑁2 − 2

Where:

X1 = Mean of Traditional Farmers’ Practice

X2 = Mean of Science and Technology Based Farming
N1 = Number of samples in Traditional Farmers’ Practice
N2 = Number of samples in Science and Technology Based Farming
S1 = Standard Deviation Traditional Farmers’ Practice
S2 = Standard Deviation Science and Technology Based Farming
 29

Chapter IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the result and discussion of the data on the growth and yield

performance of Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L.) under Traditional Farmer’s Practice

and Science and Technology Based Farming.

Table 1. Mean final height (cm) of arrowroot plants from Traditional Farmer’s Practice
and Science and Technology Based Farming.
Traditional Farmers’
STBF
Practice
I 87.45 144.23
II 94 118.27
III 94.09 161.85
IV 85.57 145.45
V 86.63 110.5
Total 447.74 680.30
Mean 89.55 136.06**
*
Significant
**
Highly Significant

The mean final height of arrowroot plants is significantly higher in STBF

compared with traditional farmers’ practice (Appendix Table 1). The STBF has mean

final height of 136.06 cm while traditional farmer’s practice had only 89.55cm. A

significantly higher maximum height of 161.85 cm was also achieved by STBF while

only 94.09 cm from traditional farmer’s practice.

The taller height of plants under STBF could have been due to the applied

nutrients and the benefits of adequate planting space for better absorption of sunlight.

This result was confirmed by greenstone (2011) arrowroot grows as high as 180 cm high
 30

when fertilized with an 8 – 5 -14 NPK at a rate of 900 kg/ha and with a planting distance

of 75 x 37.5 cm which prevents shading. Hence more sunlight is absorbed for better

growth of plant.

Table 2. Mean Final number of shoots per plant from Traditional Farmer’s Practice and
Science and Technology Based Farming
Traditional
Farmers’ Practice STBF
I 32.73 47.36
II 37.8 45
III 36.1 45.45
IV 36.2 49.18
V 40.88 44.5
Total 183.71 231.49
Mean 36.74 46.30**
*
Significant
**
Highly Significant

From T- Test results shown in the above table, STBF is significantly better in

shoot production per plant than traditional farmers practice (Appendix Table 2). Higher

mean number of shoots per plant of 46.30 was obtained from STBF, whereas, least mean

number of starch/plant of 36.74 was produced by traditional farmers practice.

The STBF also obtained the highest maximum number of shoots of 49.18

compared with traditional farmer’s practices of only 40.88 shoots.

The thorough land preparation of the land prior to the planting as one of the

important concepts of STBF approach may have provided the crop good soil condition

thus roots developed more and resulting to enhanced short production. This result was

corroborated by Gonzaga et. al. (2013) which stated that plowing and harrowing deep
 31

enough two or three times at wider plant spacing was favorable for better root

development.

Table 3. Mean of number of rhizomes and number of marketable rhizomes per plant of
arrowroot from Traditional Farmer’s Practice and Science and Technology
based Farm
Plant no. Total No. of Rhizomes No. of Marketable Rhizomes
Traditional Farmers’ Traditional
Practice STBF Farmers’ Practice STBF
1 19 45 4 30
2 12 28 7 11
3 13 39 6 18
4 10 53 1 31
5 18 23 8 7
6 27 32 11 14
7 12 34 7 17
8 12 35 5 24
9 16 37 9 19
10 19 30 12 20
11 18 33 8 15
12 22 45 11 23
13 12 28 6 23
14 20 32 6 19
15 13 25 5 23
16 12 35 5 20
17 12 32 6 18
18 13 41 4 20
19 7 34 2 19
20 15 42 2 21
Total 302 703 125 392
**
Mean 15.1 35.15 6.25 19.6**
** Highly Significant

Table 3 shows that the mean number of rhizomes and mean number of marketable

rhizomes per plant from STBF and Traditional farmer’s practice which have been tested

by T- Test results to be highly significantly different (Appendix Table 3a and Appendix

Table 3b).
 32

A significantly higher mean number of rhizomes per plant of 35.15 were

produced by plants under STBF while least mean number of rhizomes/plant of 15.1 was

obtained from traditional farmer’s practice.

In the number of marketable rhizomes produced per plant, STBF also had the

highest mean number of marketable rhizomes per plant produced of 19.6 as compared to

traditional farmer’s practice with only 6.25 mean number of marketable rhizomes per

plant.

In comparison between the two cultural practices as regard the minimum and

maximum number of rhizomes and number of marketable rhizomes of arrowroot, the

STBF obtained significantly higher maximum number of rhizomes and number of

marketable rhizomes per plant of 53 and 31 while traditional farmer’s practices had only

27 and 12 in that order.

The increased number of rhizomes and number of marketable rhizomes produced

per plant could be attributed to the application of vermicompost which may have

enhanced better aeration in the soil. The better aeration achieved through vermicompost

application in STBF may have successfully initiated co-dominance of beneficial

microorganisms in the soil which have greatly elaborated the nutrients from organic

compost applied for the benefit of arrowroot. Thus, more rhizomes were produced. As

mention by Gupta (2006), Vermicompost being a stable fine granular organic matter,

when added to the clay soil loosens and provides passage for the entry of air thus

facilitate aeration.
 33

Table 4. Mean weight of rhizome and marketable rhizomes of arrowroot plant from
traditional farmers’ practice and STBF
Total Weight (kg) Total Weight of Marketable (kg)
Plant no. Traditional Traditional
Farmers’ Practice STBF Farmers’ Practice STBF
1 0.40 4.20 0.15 3.25
2 0.75 1.75 0.45 0.80
3 0.75 3.10 0.35 1.70
4 0.25 3.60 0.025 2.30
5 1.00 1.75 0.50 0.75
6 0.90 2.90 0.50 1.70
7 0.65 2.80 0.40 1.40
8 0.40 2.70 0.20 2.80
9 0.65 2.75 0.40 1.25
10 1.05 3.25 0.80 2.20
11 1.60 2.50 0.25 1.85
12 0.90 3.40 0.55 1.75
13 0.45 2.30 0.75 1.50
14 0.55 2.75 0.75 1.40
15 0.50 2.00 0.20 1.60
16 0.35 3.10 0.20 1.95
17 0.45 3.10 0.20 1.85
18 0.15 3.30 0.025 2.10
19 0.15 2.75 0.05 1.60
20 0.30 3.30 0.025 2.00
Total 12.20 57.30 6.78 35.75
Mean 0.61 2.87** 0.34 1.79**
**
Highly Significant

Table 4 shows the mean weight of rhizomes and mean weight of marketable

rhizomes per plant from STBF and Traditional farmer’s practice which have been tested

by T- Test results to be highly significantly different (Appendix Table 4a and Appendix

Table 4b).

A significantly higher mean weight of rhizomes per plant of 2.87 kg were

produced by plants under STBF while least mean weight of rhizomes plant of 0.61 kg

was obtained from traditional farmer’s practice.

 34

In the mean weight of marketable rhizomes per plant, STBF also had the highest

mean weight of marketable rhizomes per plant produced of 1.79 kg as compared to

traditional farmer’s practice with only 0.34 kg mean weight of marketable rhizomes per

plant.

In comparison between the two cultural practices as regard to minimum and

maximum weight of rhizomes and weight of marketable rhizomes of arrowroot, the

STBF obtained significantly higher maximum weight of rhizomes and weight of

marketable rhizomes per plant of 4.2 and 3.32 while traditional farmer’s practice had

only 1.6 and 0.8 in that order.

The increased weight of rhizomes and weight of marketable rhizomes produced

per plant could be attributed to the application of vermicompost based on soil analysis

which may have satisfied the nutrient requirement of arrowroot. As mentioned by Gupta

(2006) Organic carbon in vermicompost releases the nutrients slowly and steadily and

enables the plants to absorbed nutrients.

 35

Table 5. Rhizome Yield (kg) per sq.m. and tons/ha of Arrowroot under Traditional Farmers Practice and Science and Technology Based Farm
Plant No. Kilogram per sq.m. tons per hectare
Small Medium Large Total Small Medium Large Total
TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF
1 1.51 2.18 1.19 4.61 1.74 11.88 4.44 18.67 15.06 21.83 11.94 46.06 17.40 118.82 44.40 186.70
2 2.83 0.91 2.24 1.92 3.26 4.95 8.33 7.78 28.26 9.09 22.41 19.19 32.64 49.51 83.30 77.80
3 2.83 1.61 2.24 3.40 3.26 8.77 8.33 13.78 28.26 16.11 22.41 34.00 32.64 87.70 83.30 137.80
4 0.94 1.87 0.75 3.95 1.09 10.18 2.78 16 9.43 18.70 7.48 39.47 10.89 101.82 27.80 160.00
5 3.77 0.91 2.99 1.92 4.35 4.95 11.11 7.78 37.69 9.09 29.89 19.19 43.53 49.51 111.10 77.80
6 3.39 1.51 2.69 3.18 3.92 8.20 10.00 12.89 33.92 15.07 26.90 31.80 39.18 82.03 100.00 128.90
7 2.45 1.45 1.94 3.07 2.83 7.92 7.22 12.44 24.49 14.54 19.42 30.69 28.29 79.17 72.20 124.40
8 1.51 1.40 1.19 2.96 1.74 7.64 4.44 12 15.06 14.03 11.94 29.60 17.40 76.37 44.40 120.00
9 2.45 1.43 1.94 3.01 2.83 7.78 7.22 12.22 24.49 14.29 19.42 30.15 28.29 77.77 72.20 122.20
10 3.96 1.69 3.14 3.56 4.57 9.19 11.67 14.44 39.58 16.88 31.39 35.62 45.72 91.90 116.70 144.40
11 6.03 1.30 4.78 2.74 6.97 7.07 17.78 11.11 60.31 12.99 47.83 27.41 69.66 70.70 177.80 111.10
12 3.39 1.77 2.69 3.73 3.92 9.62 10.00 15.11 33.92 17.66 26.90 37.28 39.18 96.16 100.00 151.10
13 1.70 1.19 1.35 2.52 1.96 6.50 5.00 10.22 16.96 11.95 13.45 25.21 19.59 65.04 50.00 102.20
14 2.07 1.43 1.64 3.01 2.39 7.78 6.11 12.22 20.73 14.29 16.44 30.15 23.94 77.77 61.10 122.20
15 1.89 1.04 1.50 2.19 2.18 5.66 5.56 8.89 18.86 10.39 14.96 21.93 21.78 56.58 55.60 88.90
16 1.32 1.61 1.05 3.40 1.52 8.77 3.89 13.78 13.19 16.11 10.46 34.00 15.24 87.70 38.90 137.80
17 1.70 1.61 1.35 3.40 1.96 8.77 5.00 13.78 16.96 16.11 13.45 34.00 19.59 87.70 50.00 137.80
18 0.57 1.71 0.45 3.62 0.65 9.34 1.67 14.67 5.66 17.15 4.49 36.19 6.54 93.36 16.70 146.70
19 0.57 1.43 0.45 3.01 0.65 7.78 1.67 12.22 5.66 14.29 4.49 30.15 6.54 77.77 16.70 122.20
20 1.13 1.71 0.90 3.62 1.30 9.34 3.33 14.67 11.30 17.15 8.96 36.19 13.05 93.36 33.30 146.70
Total 45.98 29.77 36.46 62.83 53.11 162.07 135.55 254.67 459.79 297.71 364.63 628.27 531.08 1620.72 1355.50 2546.70
** ** ** ** ** **
Mean 2.30 1.49 1.82 3.14 2.66 8.10 6.78 12.73 22.99 14.89 18.23 31.41 26.55 81.04 67.78 127.34
**
Highly Significant
 36

Table 5 shows the mean rhizome yield per sq m and in tons/ha from STBF and

traditional famer’s practice which have been revealed by T – test to be highly

significantly different (Appendix Table 5a, Appendix Table 5b, and Appendix Table 5c.).

A significantly higher mean weight of rhizome yield per sq m and tons/ha in

terms of medium and large sized rhizomes, STBF obtained heavier weight per sq m with

means of 3.14 and 8.10 kg/m2, and 31.41 and 81.04 tons/ha of sorted yield as compared

with traditional farmer’s practice with the means of 1.82 and 2.66 kg/m2, and 18.23 and

26.55 tons/ha in that order.

In comparison between STBF and traditional farmer’s practice as regard to

minimum and maximum rhizome yield in kg/m2 and tons/ha, STBF obtained significantly

higher maximum yield of medium and large size rhizome of 4.61 and 11.88 kg/m2 and

46.06 and 118.82 tons/ha while traditional farmer’s practice had only 4.78 and 6.97

kg/m2, and 47.83 and 69.66 tons/ha in same order.

The current result is consistent with the work of Gulluoglu and Arioglu (2009)

who confirmed that, the percentage of large tuber in total number of yield was increased

with wider plant spacing. Similarly, Yenagi et. al. (2003), Essah et.al. (2004), and Tafi

et.al. (2010), also reported that the production of large tubers was increased in wider

plant spacing due to less competition for nutrients and moisture compared to closer plant

spacing. In addition, according to Qadir (1997), and Quadir et.al. (1999), hilling-up after

complete plant emergence resulted in better yield and overall plant performance. Apart

from the 8.55 kg which was obtained from 20 sample plants at the traditional farmers’
 37

practice, whereas the lowest weight in all categories was found. This is due to the closer

spacing, thus having a strong competition among plants for nutrients and reduced photo

assimilate production and redistribution to the tubers and finally least weight of small

sized tubers produced. Dwelle and Love (1993) also concluded that tubers in closer plant

spacing have decreased bulking rates of individual tubers and these resulted in smaller

tuber. Similarly, Oliveira (2000) reported that more number of small sized tubers was

produced by reducing plant spacing.

 38

Table 6. Starch Yield (kg) per sq.m. and tons/ha of Arrowroot under Traditional Farmers Practice and Science and Technology Based Farm
Plant No. Kilogram per sq.m. Tons/ha
Total Net Weight Starch Yield Total Net Weight Starch Yield
TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF
1 4.44 18.67 3.16 13.96 0.48 2.10 44.40 186.70 31.64 139.58 4.81 21.02
2 8.33 7.78 5.94 5.82 0.90 0.88 83.30 77.80 59.35 58.16 9.02 8.76
3 8.33 13.78 5.94 10.30 0.90 1.55 83.30 137.80 59.35 103.02 9.02 15.51
4 2.78 16 1.98 11.96 0.30 1.80 27.80 160.00 19.81 119.62 3.01 18.01
5 11.11 7.78 7.92 5.82 1.20 0.88 111.10 77.80 79.16 58.16 12.03 8.76
6 10.00 12.89 7.13 9.64 1.08 1.45 100.00 128.90 71.25 96.37 10.83 14.51
7 7.22 12.44 5.14 9.30 0.78 1.40 72.20 124.40 51.44 93.00 7.82 14.01
8 4.44 12 3.16 8.97 0.48 1.35 44.40 120.00 31.64 89.71 4.81 13.51
9 7.22 12.22 5.14 9.14 0.78 1.38 72.20 122.20 51.44 91.36 7.82 13.76
10 11.67 14.44 8.31 10.80 1.26 1.63 116.70 144.40 83.15 107.95 12.64 16.26
11 17.78 11.11 12.67 8.31 1.93 1.25 177.80 111.10 126.68 83.06 19.26 12.51
12 10.00 15.11 7.13 11.30 1.08 1.70 100.00 151.10 71.25 112.96 10.83 17.01
13 5.00 10.22 3.56 7.64 0.54 1.15 50.00 102.20 35.63 76.40 5.42 11.51
14 6.11 12.22 4.35 9.14 0.66 1.38 61.10 122.20 43.53 91.36 6.62 13.76
15 5.56 8.89 3.96 6.65 0.60 1.00 55.60 88.90 39.62 66.46 6.02 10.01
16 3.89 13.78 2.77 10.30 0.42 1.55 38.90 137.80 27.72 103.02 4.21 15.51
17 5.00 13.78 3.56 10.30 0.54 1.55 50.00 137.80 35.63 103.02 5.42 15.51
18 1.67 14.67 1.19 10.97 0.18 1.65 16.70 146.70 11.90 109.67 1.81 16.52
19 1.67 12.22 1.19 9.14 0.18 1.38 16.70 122.20 11.90 91.36 1.81 13.76
20 3.33 14.67 2.37 10.97 0.36 1.65 33.30 146.70 23.73 109.67 3.61 16.52
Total 135.55 254.67 96.58 190.39 14.68 28.67 1355.50 2546.70 965.79 1903.91 146.80 286.73
Mean 6.78 12.73** 4.83 9.52** 0.73 1.43** 67.78 127.34** 48.29 95.20** 7.34 14.34**
**
Highly Significant
 39

Table 6 shows the starch yield per sq.m. and tons/ha from STBF and traditional

farmer’s practice which have been revealed by T – test to be highly significantly different

(Appendix Table 6a and Appendix Table 6b).

A significantly higher mean of starch yield of 1.43kg/sq.m was produced by

plants from STBF while least mean starch yield of 0.73kg/sq.m. was obtained from

traditional farmer’s practice.

In comparison between the two cultural practices as regard the minimum and

maximum starch yield per sq.m. and tons/ha. The STBF obtained significantly higher

maximum starch yield of 2.10kg/sqm and 21.02 tons/ha while traditional farmer’s

practice had only 1.93 kg/sq.m and 19.23 tons/ha in that order.

However, in the study by Malinis and Pacardo (2012), arrowroot starch yielded

0.625 to 0.75 kg/m2 in open area and 0.425 to 0.51 kg/m2 in shaded using planting

distances of 50cm x 30cm in sandy loam type of soil.

 40

Table 7. Number of days to flowering of Traditional Farmer’s Practice and Science and
Technology Base Farm
Plant No. First flowering Second Flowering Third Flowering
TFP STBF TFP STBF TFP STBF
1 112 111 145 145 179 165
2 111 111 145 145 160 179
3 111 113 145 136 179 179
4 111 111 150 145 189 179
5 111 111 145 145 179 186
6 111 111 145 151 179 179
7 111 111 145 145 164 179
8 110 111 150 145 179 179
9 111 111 145 145 180 179
10 110 108 145 148 186 179
11 111 111 145 145 179 179
12 112 111 145 145 165 179
13 111 109 135 148 179 179
14 109 111 145 145 190 179
15 111 108 145 145 185 179
16 111 111 145 145 179 185
17 109 109 145 145 181 179
18 111 111 135 151 179 179
19 111 111 145 145 180 179
20 109 111 145 145 179 179
Total 2214 2212 2890 2909 3570 3579
ns ns
Mean 110.7 110.6 144.5 145.45 178.5 178.95 ns
ns
Not Significant

Table 7 shows the number of days to flowering of arrowroot using traditional

farmer’s practice and STBF which have been revealed by T – test to be not significantly

different (Appendix Table 7a, Appendix Table 7b, and Appendix Table 7c). The non-

significance of days to flowering of the arrowroot plants may be due to the same age and

variety of the crop. However, as reflected in table 1 and 2 arrowroot plants from STBF
 41

obtained the highest height and greater number of shoots as compared with the arrowroot

plants in traditional farmer’s practice.

Table 8. Number of days to maturity of Traditional Farmer’s Practice and Science and
Technology Base Farm
Plant No. Days to maturity
TFP STBF
1 215 215
2 215 215
3 215 215
4 215 215
5 215 215
6 215 215
7 215 215
8 215 215
9 215 215
10 215 215
11 215 215
12 215 215
13 215 215
14 215 215
15 215 215
16 215 215
17 215 215
18 215 215
19 215 215
20 215 215
Total 4300 4300
Mean 215 ns 215 ns
ns
Not Significant

Table 8 shows the number of days to maturity of arrowroot using traditional

farmer’s practice and STBF which have been revealed by T – test to be not significantly

different (Appendix Table 8). The non-significance of the days to maturity of arrowroot

plants may be due to the same age and variety of the crop. However, as reflected in table
 42

3 and 4 arrowroot plants from STBF obtained the greater number and heavier weight of

rhizomes as compared with the arrowroot plants in traditional farmer’s practices.

According to Mathews (2008) arrowroot requires 8 to 10 months or 240 to 300

days of growing period before it is harvested while in India as corroborated by Alexander

(2009) arrowroot matures in seven months and also considered drying of leaves and

lodging of stem as indication of maturity.

 43

Table 9. Cost and return analysis of arrowroot production using farmers practice and S&T based farming
Farmer’s practice S&T based Farming
Rhizome yield per hectare 67800 kg 127800 kg
Starch recovery 7340 kg 14340 kg
Gross Income
6.00/ kg of rhizomes
150/ salop of starch
1 salop= 2.2 kg
Gross Income
Rhizome Prod. 406,800.00 766,800.00
Starch Prod. 500,454.00 977,727.00

Materials Costing
280 sacks* 300 84,000.00
Planting materials
120 sacks* 300 36,000.00
Oragnic fertlizer (Vermicompost) 32 bags* 350 11,200.00

Variable cost
Land preparation
a.Plowing 24MD* 250 6,000.00 6,000.00
b.Harrowing 24MD* 250 6,000.00 6,000.00
c. Furrowing 24MD* 300 7,200.00
Fertilizer application 20MD* 250
168MD* 250 42,000.00
Planting
84MD* 250 21,000.00
Tractor rent 8hrs*750 6,000.00 6,000.00
1043.08 sacks* 100 104,308.00
Harvesting
1966.15 sacks* 100 196,615.00
1043.08 sacks * 50 52,154.00
Cleaning
1966.15 sacks * 50 98,307.50
14.86 L* 46 683.56
Diesel for Grinding
29.40 L* 46 1,352.40
36.7 L* 46 1,688.20
Diesel for Finning
71.7 L* 46 3,298.20

Other cost:
Sacks 20 sacks* 10 200.00 200.00

TOTAL PRODUCTION COSTS

Cost of production of rhizome 248,308.00 290,015.00
Cost of production of starch 303,033.76 393,172.60
Net profit on rhizome prod. 158,492.00 476,785.00
Net profit on starch prod. 197,420.24 584,554.40
ROI on Rhizome prod. 64% 164%
ROI on starch prod. 65% 149%

Table 9 shows the cost and return analysis of arrowroot from STBF and

traditional farmer’s practices. The STBF ROI of 164% and 149% for rhizomes and
 44

starch production makes more return on investment than the traditional farmers’ practice

ROI of 64% and 65% respectively. Components of STBF produces higher rate of

investment due to the additional cost inputs and labor like vermicompost, furrowing and

fertilizer application yet it is effective to increase the income of arrowroot growers.

Further shows that STBF ROI on rhizome production 164% is higher than ROI in starch

production 149% respectively. This is due to greater number of harvested rhizome which

incurred cost of labor for cleaning and cost to diesel for starch production. Apparently,

rhizome production is a mediocre venture for selling a selling price at Php 6.00/kg.

However, starch production might be at superior for a selling price at Php 150.00/2.2 kg

and greatly affected by high demand in the market.

.
 45

Chapter V

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Summary

The study was conducted in Brgy. Matandang Sabang Silangan Catanauan,

Quezon from June 2013 to January 2014. This study covers the growth and yield

performance that includes plant height, total number of shoots, total number of rhizomes,

total number of marketable rhizomes, total weight of rhizomes, total weight of

marketable rhizomes, yield in tons/ha, size of rhizomes and flour recovery. There were

two areas where the treatments were planted. Each area was divided into 5 equal plots

measuring 500m2 each where sample plants were selected.

The Science and Technology Based Farming had greater improvement to the

growth and yield of arrowroot in terms of plant height, number of shoots and size and

weight of rhizomes. The estimated yield of 12.73 kg/m2 and 127.34 tons/ha which

yielded 1.43 kg/m2 and 14.34 tons/ha of starch. While treatment 1 Traditional Farmers’

Practices obtained smaller plants, few and smaller rhizomes that projected a yield of 6.78

kg/m2 and 67.78 tons/ha which yielded 0.73 kg/m2 and 7.34 tons/ha of starch. The

Findings also showed that DTBF has higher return on investment of 164 % in rhizome

production and 149% in starch production, while Treatment 2 Traditional Farmer’s

Practice has 64% and 65% in that order.

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Conclusion

Based from the results of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:

1. The STBF gives higher growth and yield of arrowroot with the maximum height

of 136.06 cm, number of shoots 46.30, rhizome yield of 12.73kg/m2 and 127.34

tons/ha.

2. The STBF is more efficient for starch production with high percentage of starch

yield of 1.43 kg/m2 and 14.34 tons/ha.

3. The STBF produces higher rate of investment and it is effective to increase the

income of arrowroot growers.

Recommendation:

From the conclusions drawn, the following recommendations were formulated;

1. The STBF components shall be followed to achieve increase yield of arrowroot

and income of arrowroot growers.

2. Another similar study may be conducted but with the used of organic fertilizers;

amounts and much wider planting distance.

3. A physico - chemical analysis may be warranted to evaluate the starch quality of

arrowroot production for two cultural practices.

4. Further experiments on blending starch with other nutritionally rich legume

(mungo, soybean) may be conducted to establish its nutonceutical value.

 47

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