1

INTRODUCTION

The agricultural land in the Philippines is limited so the production of crops is also

limited. Thus, most of the farmers rely on using fertilizer and complementary inputs to increase

food and agricultural production. But using chemical and inorganic fertilizers lead to harmful

ecological and health effect. Thus, organic fertilizer is more appropriate in farming because it is

renewable, biodegradable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.

Organic fertilizer is usually made from plant or animal waste or powdered minerals. The

words “organic” or “natural” in this case simply means that the product is only minimally

processed, and the nutrients remain bound up in their natural forms, rather than being extracted

and refined. In the case of fertilizer, “organic” does not refer to the standards of processing

associated with food. They are usually sold as “soil conditioners” rather than as fertilizer, because

the nutrient ratios are difficult to guarantee (Today’s Home Owner, 2012). One example of this is

Fermented Plant Juice.

Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) is a fermented extract of a plant’s sap and chlorophyll. It

consists of the young shoots of vigorously growing plants that are allowed to ferment for

approximately 7 days with the aid of molasses or brown sugar. The molasses draws the juices out

of the plant material via osmosis and also serves as a food source for the microbes carrying out

the fermentation process. The weak alcohol produced during fermentation extracts chlorophyll

(soluble in ethanol) and other plant components. It is non-toxic and edible.

FPJ is use to enhance the growth of the plant. It can be used as fertilizer to different plant

like vegetables. It can be applied to Lettuce to enhance and improve the growth rate of the plant.

Leaf lettuce is an excellent crop for both beginning and more advanced gardeners. The

leaves are ready to harvest at almost any size, from tiny sprouts to fully mature leaves. The
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spacing of lettuce depends on where you are growing it and how large you want the plant to

grow. There are five distinct distinct types of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) – leaf (also known as

loose-leaf), cos or romaine, crisphead, butterhead and stem (also called as asparagus lettuce or

celtuce). Leaf lettuce is the most common lettuce in the Philippines and it produces crisp leaves

loosely arranged on the stalk. Cos or romaine forms an upright, elongated head and is an excellent

addition to salads and sandwiches. The butterhead varieties are generally small, semi-heading

types that have tender, soft leaves and a delicate flavor. Stem lettuce forms an elongated seed

stalk used mainly in stewed, creamed and Chinese dishes. Crisphead varieties are the least

adapted and require the most care. They are extremely sensitive to heat and rain and must be

grown from transplants that are started early.

Loose leaf lettuce, which refers to varieties that don’t form any type of head, is

considered the easiest to grow. They are cultivated for the tender, delicate leaves which grow

from a central stalk.

Statement of the Problem

The study generally aims to determine the effects of Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) to the

growth of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa).

Specifically, it will answer the following questions:

1. What are the effects of Fermented Plant Juice (Moringa, Madre de Cacao,

Moringa and Madre de Cacao) on the growth of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in

terms of:

1.1 height?;

1.2 weight?; and

1.3 number of leaves?

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2. What are the effects of Fermented Plant Juice (Moringa, Madre de Cacao,

Moringa and Madre de Cacao) on the sensory characteristics of Lettuce

(Lactuca sativa) in terms of:

2.1 color?;

2.2 taste?; and

2.3 general acceptability?

Objectives of the Study

Generally, this study will aim to determine the effects of Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) to

the growth of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa).

Specifically, this study will aim to:

1. determine are the effects of Fermented Plant Juice (Moringa, Madre de

Cacao, Moringa and Madre de Cacao) on the growth of Lettuce (Lactuca

sativa) in terms of:

1.1 height?;

1.2 weight?; and

1.3 number of leaves

2. determine the effects of Fermented Plant Juice (Moringa, Madre de Cacao,

Moringa and Madre de Cacao) on the sensory characteristics of Lettuce

(Lactuca sativa) in terms of:

2.1 color?;

2.2 taste?; and

2.3 general acceptability?

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Hypotheses

In line with the information that will be presented, the researchers come up with three

null hypotheses:

H1 There are no significant differences on the height, weight, number of leaves,

color of leaves, and sensory evaluation of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) using

Moringa Fermented Plant Juice with different treatment.

H2 There are no significant differences on the height, weight, number of leaves,

color of leaves, and sensory evaluation of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) using Madre

de Cacao Fermented Plant Juice with different treatment.

H3 There are no significant differences on the height, weight, number of leaves,

color of leaves, and sensory evaluation of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) using

Moringa and Madre de Cacao Fermented Plant Juice with different treatment.
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Conceptual Framework of the Study

Growth

Fermented Plant Juice

a. Height
b. Weight
1. Moringa FPJ
c. Number of
2. Madre de Cacao Leaves
Lettuce (Lactuca d.
FPJ
sativa)
3. Moringa and Sensory Evaluation

Madre de Cacao
a. Taste
FPJ
b. Color

(with different c. General

treatments) Acceptability

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework of the Study

In this study, the researchers will determine the growth in terms of height, weight, and

number of leaves, and sensory evaluation in terms of taste, color, and general acceptability of

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) using Fermented Plant Juice (Moringa and/or Madre de Cacao) with

different treatments.
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Significance of the Study

The results of the study will be important to the following:

Students. This study will be beneficial to the students to know more about the

effectiveness of Moringa and Madre de Cacao Fermented Plant Juice to the

growth of plant.

Farmers. This study will help the farmers to have more knowledge on the effects

of using Moringa and Madre de Cacao Fermented Plant Juice as a fertilizer to

their plants to have best results in growing their plants.

Future Researchers. This study will be beneficial to the future researchers to

gain more background and information about Moringa and Madre de Cacao

Fermented Plant Juice as fertilizer. They can also use this study as reference in

the future in testing the validity of other related findings

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The central point of the study is to know the effects of FPJ (from Moringa and/or Madre

de Cacao) to the growth of loose leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) using different treatments.

The plant juice will be fermented and extracted for only seven (7) days. The Fermented

Plant Juice will be stored for another one week after completion to become more effective.

The Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) will be planted directly in the soil. It will have 12” spacing

based on the packaging instruction. The plant will cover only 35 days duration after planting. The

lettuce is to be water with FPJ fertilizer every Saturday (5:00 pm). And it will be watered with

tap water two-three times a week or when the soil becomes dry.

This study will cover only 49 days duration to finish the study.
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Definition of Terms

Base of the Plant. It means edible part of the plant.

Fermented Plant Juice. It is the fermented leaves of Moringa and/or Madre de Cacao

with molasses for one week.

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Loose leaf lettuce variety will be used in the experiment to find

the effects of FPJ to the growth of a plant.

Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia sepium). The leaves of Madre de Cacao will be fermented

to make FPJ.

Molasses. Also known as “brown sugar”. It will use draw out the plant juices of Moringa

and/or Madre Cacao.

Moringa (Moringa oleifera). Its leaves will be fermented to extract its plant juice and

used in the study.

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REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents the related literature and studies conducted regarding Fermented

Plant Juice. These reviews aimed to provide basic foundation and relevant information that help

facilitate clearer understanding on how each of these information and studies reviewed relate to

the present investigation.

Fermented Plant Juice

Fermented Plant Juice is another kind of organic fertilizer which is naturally made from

plant materials which are acted upon by bacteria and yeasts to produce a liquid form of fertilizer.

This can be used to spray or sprinkle on plants (Mabalod, 2010). Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) is

derived from mixing the young shoots of the plants with molasses and/or crude sugar and

fermented in one (1) week. The part of the plants used for this fermentation is the shoot because it

stores a high percentage of nutrients coming from the soil and from the atmosphere.

FPJ gives more nitrogen to plants and enhances the ability of plants to photosynthesize or

make their own food. It also gives additional phosphorus and help plants absorb more phosphorus

from the soil.

The liquid is applied to soil, plant leaves, and animal bedding to fortify microbial

activities (Solraya, 2010). It is a mixture which can improve soil fertility and enhance plant

growth. It is then used as foliar fertilizer or drenched onto the soil (Padilla, 2011).

According to the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (2013),

Fermented Plant Juice is used in solutions for seed and soil treatments and plant nutrition. It

consists of the young shoots of vigorously growing plants that are allowed to ferment for

approximately 7 days with the aid of brown sugar. The brown sugar draws the juices out of the
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plant material via osmosis and also serves as a food source for the microbes carrying out the

fermentation process. The weak alcohol produce during fermentation extracts chlorophyll and

other plant components. It is not toxic and edible.

Foliar sprays are fermented plant extracts and used as source of soluble nutrients to

stimulate plant growth, suppress diseases, and in biodynamic gardening that is considered as

carriers of cosmic and earthly force. Foliar sprays are considered as immune building plant

extracts, plant tonics, biotic substances, and bio-stimulants. (Asian Food & Agriculture

Cooperation Initiative (AFACI), 2012)

Steps in Making Fermented Plant Juice

These are the steps presented by the Agri-Business (2014) and Cho Global Natural

Farming (2013) in making FPJ.

1. Collect the plant materials early in the morning while they are fresh and the

microorganisms are still present. Do not wash the plant materials.

2. Cut the plant materials into small pieces so that the juice can be easily

extracted. Note that the plant ingredient and the crude sugar (molasses)

should have a ratio of 1:1 (in kilo)

3. Put the mixture in a container and cover it with paper or cloth, and secure it

with a string or rubber band.

4. Put label of the date of processing and the expected date of harvest on the

cover of the container.

5. Store the container in a cool dry shady place. Make sure that the storage

area is not infested with mice or cockroaches, because they might feed on

the mixture and contaminate the extract.

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6. Plant juice is extracted and fermented for 7 days. The plant extract will

change its color from green to yellow then to brown and will smell sweet

and alcoholic.

7. Separate the fermented plant juice from the mixture using cloth or strainer.

And store it in dark colored glass jar. Cover the jar using paper or cloth to

allow gas to escape during further fermentation.

8. Use Fermented Plant Juice more effectively if it is stored for another one

week after completion.

Preparing and Applying FPJ

Dilute FPJ at the rate of 2 tablespoons per liter of water. Apply FPJ once per week in the

late afternoon, ideally an hour before sunset. The solution can be watered onto plants, into the

soil, or can be applied as a foliar spray. The nutrient solution is applied once per week and is

adjusted as the plant passes through its life cycle stages and vegetative and reproductive stages

(Food and Fertilizer Technology Center).

Moringa (Moringa oleifera)

Moringa or malunggay is a widely grown plant in the Philippines. It is a plant popularly

known as the ‘drumstick tree’ because its fruits (pods) look like drumsticks (Ciju, 2019). It is

abundant in the Philippines and has health benefits in human.

Moringa oleifera is a tree that is sometimes called a “Miracle Tree” because of all its

parts are used for nutritional, pharmacological properties. Moringa is a very valuable food crop (it

is highly nutritive, grows very fast and drought resistant) and even beyond food it serves many

benefits in developing countries such as having an ability to be used for some crafts (due to being
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a tree) and cleaning water. The Moringa tree can also play an important role in soil and water

conservation and mitigating climate change.

According to the Biotechnology Program Office of the Department of Agriculture, the

malunggay has been found by biochemists and molecular anthropologists to be rich in vitamins C

and A, iron, and high density lipoprotein or good cholesterol. (Ortega, J.)

According to the study of Mainasara, Moringa leaf extract (MLE) is rich with numerous

growth hormones, particularly zeatin that has been reported to increase the crops yield in the

range of 10-45 %. Moringa leaf juice also contains micronutrients in sufficient quantities and

suitable proportions that increase the growth, yield components and yield of a variety of crops.

Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia sepium)

Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia sepium) is a medium-size, semi-deciduous tree that typically

grows to 10 meters in height, with a broad canopy. It is fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree used

throughout the tropics for the many environmental services and products it provided. The tree is

also an important source of green manure, fodder, and fuel wood.

It is a leguminous tree that can reduce environmental risks associated with chemical

fertilizers and also minimizes the usage of chemical fertilizers that are expensive and also

environmental unfriendly. Recent studies shown that Madre de Cacao can be used as organic

fertilizer to plants, According to Diouf, Madre de Cacao is a nitrogen-fixing tree that has a

potential of restoring and maintaining soil fertility, It has also phosphorus and potassium that is

also an ideal for growth enhancer. Madre de Cacao leaves was used by other people as organic

fertilizer. Even Department of Agriculture (DA) declares that Madre de Cacao can be used as bio-

organic fertilizer to plants.

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Based on the statement of Marilyn Sta. Catalina (DA executive director) that leaves are

rich in nitrogen and important soil nutrient. Hence, the discarded leaves can be applied to the field

as an organic fertilizer. She encouraged the Department of Soil Science and Dr. Gina Pangsa of

Farming System and Soil Resources Institute to conduct an experiment to snow the results of this

kind of theory. According to their experiment Madre de Cacao has a potential to be a bio-organic

fertilizer.

There are many compounds found in Gliricidia sepium. The ones most researched are

the tannins. In one study, Gliricidia was found to contain 40.7g of condensed tannins/kg dry

matter. Tannins bind to protein and can make plants with high levels have an astringent dry

mouth taste. The exact quantity of tannins varies with the location of the tree. The active

medicinal compounds may be the tannins or other compounds such as afrormosin, medicarpin, or

some isoflavins. Most of the research with Gliricidia and its compounds have focused on its

nutritive quality. However, some studies have focused on the ability of the plant and/or roots to

decrease soil nematode populations, and control insects or fungi. Some of the compounds in

Gliricidia sepium are: Afrormosin (an isoflavan), reported to be an antitumor promoting agent;

Formononetin(an isoflavan); Gliricidin-6a–wood; Gliricidol-9A–wood; Medicarpin (a

pterocarpan), reported to be antifungal; 7,4'-dihydroxy-3'-Methoxyisoflavin; 2'-O-Methylsepiol–

plant; Tannin, reported to have potential antidiarrheic, antidysenteric, antimutagenic,

antinephritic, antioxidant, antiradicular, antiviral, bactericide, cancer-preventive,

hepatoprotective, pesticide, psychotropic, and viricide activities; and 7,3',4'-Trihydroxyflavanone

– plant.

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Lettuce, (Lactuca sativa), annual leaf vegetable of the aster family (Asteraceae). Most

lettuce varieties are eaten fresh and are commonly served as the base of green salads. Lettuce is
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generally a rich source of vitamins K and A, though the nutritional quality varies, depending on

the variety.

It is a fairly hardy, cool-weather vegetable that thrives when the average daily

temperature is between 60 and 70°F. It should be planted in early spring or late summer. At high

temperatures, growth is stunted, the leaves may be bitter and the seed stalk forms and elongates

rapidly.

There are five distinct distinct types of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) – leaf (also known as

loose-leaf), cos or romaine, crisphead, butterhead and stem (also called as asparagus lettuce or

celtuce). Leaf lettuce is the most common lettuce in the Philippines and it produces crisp leaves

loosely arranged on the stalk. Cos or romaine forms an upright, elongated head and is an excellent

addition to salads and sandwiches. The butterhead varieties are generally small, semi-heading

types that have tender, soft leaves and a delicate flavor. Stem lettuce forms an elongated seed

stalk used mainly in stewed, creamed and Chinese dishes. Crisphead varieties are the least

adapted and require the most care. They are extremely sensitive to heat and rain and must be

grown from transplants that are started early.

Lettuce plants can have taproots or fibrous root systems. The leaves of domesticated

varieties come in a wide range of colours, from shades of green to deep red and purple; variegated

varieties have also been developed. Lettuces are harvested prior to flowering, as the “bolting” of

the flower stalk elongates head lettuce, reduces the size of the leaves, and imparts a bitter flavour.

The yellow flower heads produce achene fruits with feathery pappus structures for wind dispersal.

Lettuce can be grown practically anywhere. Lettuce it is a cool-season vegetable, with an

ideal temperature of 50-60 degrees. It does poorly in hot weather, and is tolerant to some frost

and light freezes. The leafy types mature quickly and are more suited for warm climates. Cos is

also more heat tolerant. It will prefer a little shade during the warmer part of the season. It can be
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grown year round with proper varieties, and some additional winter protection. Lettuce will

generally grow best in the spring and fall seasons (Veggies Harvest).

Pests and diseases. Pests and diseases can affect the plant as it hinders the plant growth,

yield and nutrients it gets from the soil and the environment. According to Veggies Harvest,

aphids and slugs are the common lettuce pests. Most of the blights and troubles have been

eliminated through plant breeding and hybrid vigour.

Loose Leaf Lettuce

Loose leaf lettuce, which refers to varieties that don’t form any type of head, is

considered the easiest to grow. They are cultivated for the tender, delicate leaves which grow

from a central stalk. According to Burpee, loose-leaf lettuce is very high in vitamin A, which is

converted from beta-carotene. The darker and richer the leaves, the more beta-carotene it

contains. Foods that contain vitamin A are antioxidants, which help reduce the risk of some forms

of cancer. Lettuce has other dietary supplements such as carbohydrates, fiber, iron and protein.

One cup of loose-leaf lettuce contains less than 10 calories per serving. Lettuces are great fall

extended crops when grown under a tunnel or in a cold frame.

According to Dean (2016), lettuce can be planted in a 75-100 cm width plot. It should be

planted 30 cm (12 inches) apart. According to Burpee (n.d), loose leaf lettuce grows

exceptionally well in double rows that are spaced 12" apart.

Lettuce responds favorably to light, but frequent watering, or overwatering, can cause

leaf rot. The ideal time to water is in the morning, so that leaves dry during the day, decreasing

leaf rot.

Many loose leaf varieties can be harvested in as little as 30 days after planting. And with

second and third cutting, they can keep a household in a steady supply of salads (This Is My
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Garden). According to Grant (2018), leaf lettuce may be picked any time after leaves form, but

before the plant bolts (forms seed stalk). It can be harvested as early as 30-40 days after planting.

It should harvest early in the morning (between 6am-9 am) or late afternoon to avoid withering of

plants (Dean, 2016). Loose leaf lettuce are ready for cutting or harvest when they are soft or just

beginning to get crisp. Older leaves will be bitter; younger leaves have a more delicate flavor.

Loose leaf lettuce is collected between 28-35 days after germination (Heirloom Organics).

According to Luttjohann (2017), loose-leaf lettuce usually reaches maturity in about 2

months. However, once the leaves have reached a size that is large enough to use, it can be

harvested. The younger the leaves, the tenderer and less bitter they will be.

Loose leaf lettuce range from light to deep green in color. The leaves are tender, mildly

sweet lettuce that maintains its flavor even in hot weather. Their flavor tends to be mild and sweet

(UNL Food).

Planting Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

There are two ways to plant lettuce. The first is direct seeding, and the second is by

adapting the transplanting method.

Direct seeding is the easiest way to grow lettuce. In direct seeding, the seed is directly

plated in the soil. Either spread the seed very thinly along a row and cover lightly with soil, or

sprinkle it over a bed and rake it in. Lettuce seed is very fine and not easy to spread evenly,

therefore both methods will likely require you to thin your seedlings later. To thin, cut the surplus

lettuce plants rather than pulling them out, so you don't damage the roots of the neighbouring

plants. Direct seeding will likely cause some losses. Emerging lettuce seedlings are very

vulnerable to all sorts of bugs. Also, lettuces grow very slowly in the beginning and are easily

overgrown by weeds.
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Lettuces can also grow in pots or punnets and transplant them when they are big enough

to handle. Handle them very carefully to minimize the transplanting shock and don't disturb the

roots at all. Transplant lettuce in the late afternoon to give them the longest possible time to settle

in, before they must cope with the sun and heat. If the lettuce seedlings were grown in shade or

semi shade, sun harden them first before transplanting them. The cooler the weather, the better

chances to successfully transplant the lettuce.

Seeds should be sown thinly in rows one foot apart; for leaf types, thin plants to 2-3

inches apart, then again by pulling every other plant when half grown. This will encourage

thickly developed plants. Closer spacing results in smaller head, which may be preferable for

small families.

Leaf lettuce does best in soil that has been enriched with plenty of organic matter such as
1
compost or aged manure. Plant seeds 2
inch apart and thin to stand 4 inch apart. Keep seeds or

seedlings row moist until plants are established. Leaf lettuce can be sown in narrow rows or
1
broadcast across wide rows about 12-15 inches across. Cover seed with no more than 2
inch of

soil, and allow 18 inches between the rows. The Ohio State University Extension recommends

performing a soil test to determine fertilizer and lime requirements, and as general rule, working

roughly 3-4 pounds of 5-10-10 fertilizer into every 100 square feet of garden area (Lovejoy).

Growing Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

Lettuces need to grow fast to taste good, so keep up the water and nutrients. If the

weather is very hot and your soil sandy, it should be water daily. Stick the finger in the soil if not

sure. Lettuces have a very shallow root system, so if the finger does not find any water, neither

does the lettuce. Lettuces need some shade in hot weather. Don't plant them in deep shade, like

under a tree. Ideally find a position that provides dappled shade in the afternoon. Other options
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are interplanting between taller plants that will not totally shade them (capsicums/peppers or

eggplants, staked tomatoes). If there was a heat wave, always cut leafy branch somewhere and

poke it in the ground next to the lettuce.

Lettuce, like all fall vegetables, requires regular water to maintain the succulent growth

that keeps plants from bolting. In hot weather, they’ll need water every day, and if they’re

growing lettuce in containers, they may need water twice a day. Lettuce needs 1-1 ½” (2.5-3.8

cm) of water per week. Plan to irrigate if they don’t get enough rainfall. If top watering with a

breaker once a day should suffice. Watering is carried out either through water hose, watering

cans, sprinklers or irrigation system.

Summary

Fermented Plant Juice is derived from mixing the young shoots of the plants with

molasses and/or crude sugar and fermented in one (1) week. Then it will be fermented for another

one week to become effective.

Moringa leaf extract (MLE) is rich with numerous growth hormones, particularly zeatin

that has been reported to increase the crops yield in the range of 10-45 %. Moringa leaf juice also

contains micronutrients in sufficient quantities and suitable proportions that increase the growth,

yield components and yield of a variety of crops.

Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia sepium) leaves are rich in nitrogen and important soil

nutrient. Hence, the discarded leaves can be applied to the field as an organic fertilizer. It is a

nitrogen-fixing tree that has a potential of restoring and maintaining soil fertility. It has also

phosphorus and potassium that is also an ideal for growth enhancer.

Lettuce is generally a rich source of vitamins K and A, though the nutritional quality

varies, depending on the variety. There are five distinct distinct types of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa);
 18

leaf (also known as loose-leaf), cos or romaine, crisphead, butterhead and stem (also called as

asparagus lettuce or celtuce). Leaf lettuce is more common and easy to grow. It needs to grow

fast to taste good, so keep up the water and nutrients. It requires regular water to maintain the

succulent growth that keeps plants from bolting. Loose leaf lettuce grows favourably 12” apart

and it can be harvested as early as 30 days.

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METHODOLOGY

This chapter deals with the different materials, tools/equipment, methods and procedures

used in the study. This research procedure will be presented in the following order: (1) Research

Design, (2) Sources of Data, (3) Supplies and Materials, (4) Budgetary Plan, (5) Experimental

Layout, (6) Procurement and Gathering of Materials, (7) Participants of the Study, (8) Sensory

Evaluation, and (9) Statistical Treatment of Data.

Research Design

Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) will be used during the observation. The

RCBD is the standard design for agricultural experiments where similar experimental units are

grouped into blocks or replicates.

The treatments involved in this study were the following:

Control – No fertilizer will be added

Moringa FPJ

Treatment 1 (T1 ) – 1 tablespoon per liter of FPJ will be made from Moringa

Treatment 2 (T2 ) - 2 tablespoons per liter of FPJ will be made from Moringa

Treatment 3 (T3 ) - 3 tablespoons per liter of FPJ will be made from Moringa

Madre de Cacao FPJ

Treatment 4 (T4 ) - 1 tablespoon per liter of FPJ will be made from Madre de

Cacao

Treatment 5 (T5 ) - 2 tablespoons per liter of FPJ will be made from Madre de

Cacao

Treatment 6 (T6 ) - 3 tablespoons per liter of FPJ will be made from Madre de

Cacao
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Moringa and Madre de Cacao FPJ

Treatment 7 (T7 ) - 1 tablespoon per liter of FPJ will be made from Moringa

and Madre de Cacao

Treatment 8 (T8 ) - 2 tablespoons per liter of FPJ will be made from Moringa

and Madre de Cacao

Treatment 9 (T9 ) - 3 tablespoons per liter of FPJ will be made from moringa and

Madre de Cacao

Sources of Data

This study will use primary and secondary data. To obtain the primary data, the

researchers will depend on the experiment done and the sensory evaluation.

For the secondary data, the researchers will use books, internet sources, and thesis to

support their study.

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Supplies and Materials

Table 1: Supplies and Material of the Study

QUANTITIES MATERIALS
10 g Loose Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seeds
6 kg Molasses
3 kg Madre de Cacao leaves
3 kg Moringa leaves
3 pcs. Container
1 pc Measuring spoon
12 pcs. Plastic Bottle
1 Ruler
1 Weighing Scale
30 pcs. Rubber band
3 pcs. Towel
1 Strainer
3 pcs. Glass jar

In this study, the researchers will use these supplies and materials to make FPJ and

seedlings.
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Budgetary Plan

Table 2: Budgetary Plan of the Study

QUANTITIES MATERIALS PRICE

10 g Loose Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seeds P 180
6 kg Molasses P 420
3 pcs. Container P 200
30 pcs. Rubber band P5
3 pcs. Glass Jars P 300
TOTAL P 1105

In this study, the researchers will invest a total amount of one thousand one hundred five

pesos (P 1105) for materials of FPJ. Some materials will not be bought due to the availability on

their household.
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Experimental Layout

CONTROL

Moringa FPJ

T1 T2 T3

Madre de Cacao FPJ

T4 T5 T6

Moringa and Madre de Cacao FPJ

T7 T8 T9
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The study will utilize experimental research design laid-out in Randomized Complete

Block Design (RCBD) having a single factor with one (1) control group and three (3) treatments

for every FPJ. Each plot will have 15 plants or seedlings of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa).

Procurement and Gathering of Materials

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seeds will be bought in Trece Martires, Cavite. Molasses will be

bought in Tanza, Cavite. Glass jars, containers, and rubber band will be bought in Indang, Cavite.

Preperation of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) Seedlings

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seeds will be planted directly in the soil. Seeds will be

planted ½ inch deep and will be sown twelve (12) inches apart.

Making Fermented Plant Juice

The researchers will make three (3) different kinds of Fermented Plant Juice

(FPJ): Moringa, Madre de Cacao, and Moringa and Madre de Cacao.

Fermented Plant Juice made from Moringa. Two kilos of Moringa will mix into

two kilos molasses. The mixture will be putted in a plastic container. The container will

be covered using towel to allow air exchange. The process and expected date of harvest

will put in the cover of the container. It will be placed inside the house or in a well-

ventilated area. It will be fermented for 7 days. After fermentation, Moringa will be

separated from liquid mixture using strainer. Then the fermented plant juice will be

transferred into a dark colored glass jar. It will be fermented for another one week to

become more effective.

The procedures will be repeated in making Madre de Cacao, and Madre de Cacao

and Moringa.
 25

Preparation of FPJ Mixture Solution

Moringa FPJ has three different solutions. One tablespoon of Moringa FPJ was

mixed in one liter of water for treatment 1, two tablespoon FPJ for one liter of water for

the treatment 2, and three tablespoons of FPJ for one liter of water for the treatment 3.

Madre de Cacao FPJ has three different solutions. One tablespoon of FPJ to one

liter of water for treatment 4, two tablespoons FPJ for one liter of water for treatment 5,

and three tablespoons of FPJ for one liter of water for treatment 6.

Moringa and Madre de Cacao FPJ has three different solutions. One tablespoon

of FPJ to one liter of water for treatment 7, two tablespoons of FPJ for one liter of water

for treatment 8, and three tablespoons of FPJ for one liter of water for treatment 9.

Growing of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) with FPJ fertilizer

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seedlings will be divided into 10 groups. Each group

will have 15 seedlings. Lettuce seedlings will be watered with FPJ fertilizers with

different treatment every Saturday (5 p.m.). One group will be controlled and watered

without any fertilizer. The lettuce will be watered two to three times a week or when the

soil is already dry.

Harvesting of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

The Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) plants will be harvested after 35 days. The plants

will be harvested using hand-cut method cutting only the leaves and leaving the roots. It

will be harvested early in the morning for the maximum carotene and best taste
 26

Growth and Yield Data Gathered

Height of Plant. The height of the plant will be measured from the base of the

plant to the tip of the longest leaf using a one-foot ruler on the day of harvest.

Weight of Plant. The plant sample for different treatment and control will weigh

on the day of harvest.

Number of Leaves. The leaves of the plant will be counted on the day of

harvest.

Color of Plant. The color of the plant will be recorded on the day of harvest.

Participants of the Study

The researchers decided that the participants of the study are High School students of

Indang Christian Academy to determine the effects of different Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) to the

growth of loose leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa). The respondents will be the one to taste the bite

sized Lettuce (Lactuca sativa). One-third of the population will be the respondents. The

participants of the study consist of sixty-eight (68) respondents: forty five (45) respondents from

the Junior High School students and twenty three (23) respondents from the Senior High School,

ages 12 and above, male or female.

The sampling method to be used in this study will be Judgmental Sampling or Purposive

Sampling. A purposive sample is a non-probability sample that is selected based on

characteristics of a population and the objective of the study (Crossman, 2019).

 27

Sensory Evaluation

The researchers will conduct sensory evaluation of the lettuce. Sixty eight (68) evaluators

will be given bite sized of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) with different treatment. Evaluation will be

done using test score.

Statistical Treatment of Data

The statistical treatment to be used in the study is weighted mean. Weighted mean will be

used for averages.

1. Weighted Mean. It allows you to estimate what the whole population is

doing without surveying everyone.

The sample mean formula is:

∑ 𝑥𝑖
𝑥̅ =
𝑛

Where:

𝑥̅ sample mean

∑ 𝑥𝑖 sum of all the values of x

𝑛 number of items in the sample

 28

REFERENCES

Books

Ciju, R. J. (2019). Moringa, The Drumstick Tree. Agrihortico.

Elevitch, C.R. (2010). Traditional Trees of Pacific Islands: Their Culture, Environment, and Use.

PAR.

Jose, D.C. (n.d.). Lettuce Production Guide. National Crop Research and Development Center.

Maghirang, R. G. (2011). Organic Fertilizer from Farm Waste Adopted by Farmers in the

Philippines. University of the Philippines, Los Baños, Laguna. Food and Fertilizer

Technology Center.

Petruzzello, M. (2019). Lettuce. Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Sampani, N.A. (2016) Growth Performance of Mallard Ducks Supplemented with Fermented

Banana Plant Juice. Academia.

Internet Sources

Antonio, C. F. (2014). Larvicidal Effect of Madre de Cacao (Gliricidia Sepium) Leaf Extract on

Household Mosquito (Culex Pipiens). Retrieved from

http://chzarmyn.blogspot.com/2014/03/larvicidal-effect-of-madre-de-cacao.html

Bohol, R.G. (n.d.). Growth Performance of Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L.). Retrieved from

https://agriculturecenter.blogspot.com/2010/04/review-of-related-

literature.html?m=1&fbclid=IwAR21igZG3Hv9uDvNDdygb5zxOuQN9Wpd5G9A24Oo

QZbjY2GmqAcCkOWvX94
 29

Burpee. (n.d). Cutting Loose Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa). Retrieved from

https://www.burpee.com/gardenadvicecenter/vegetables/lettuce/focus-on%3A-cutting-

looseleaf-lettuce-lactuca-sativa/article10224.html

Chang, K.C.S., DuPonte M.W., Ikeda, D. M., Keliihoomalu, C., McGinn, J.M., Miller, S.A., &

Weinert, E. (2013). Natural Farming Fermented Plant Juice. Retrieved from

https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/SA-7.pdf

Crossman, A. (2019). Understanding Puposive Sampling. Retrieved from

https://www.thoughtco.com/purposive-sampling-3026727

Grant, A. (2018). Gardening Know How: Harvesting Leaf Lettuce: How And When To Pick Leaf

Lettuce. Retrieved from

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/lettuce/harvesting-leaf-

lettuce.htm

Heirloom Organics. (n.d.). How to Grow Looseleaf Lettuce| Guide to Growing Looseleaf Lettuce.

Retrieved from

http://www.heirloom-organics.com/guide/va/1/guidetogrowinglooseleaflettuce.html

How Tall Should Leaf Lettuce Grow (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/tall-should-leaf-lettuce-grow-71435.html

Lettuce Production. (n.d.). Retrieved from

http://cea.cals.cornell.edu/attachments/Lettuce%20handbook%20section%202%20produc

tion%20method.pdf

Mainasara, M.M., Maishanu, M.M., Yahaya, S., & Yunusa, A. (2017). The Use of Moringa

Leaves Extract as a Plant Growth Hormone on Cowpea (Vigna Anguiculata). Retrieved

from
 30

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325908704_The_Use_of_Moringa_Leaves_Ext

ract_as_a_Plant_Growth_Hormone_on_Cowpea_Vigna_Anguiculata

Today’s Homeowner (n.d.) The Debate Over Organic Vs. Chemical Fertilizer. Retrieved from

https://todayshomeowner.com/debate-over-organic-chemical-fertilizers/

Valdez, F. (2016). Fermented Plant Juice. Retrieved from

https://www.slideshare.net/mobile/FelixValdez3/fermented-plant-juice-fpj

Veggie Harvest. (n.d.). Lettuce Growing and Harvest Information. Retrieved from

https://veggieharvest.com/vegetables/lettuce.html

JOURNAL

Daba M. (2016). Miracle Tree: A Review on Multi-purposes of Moringa Oleifera and Its

Implication for Climate Change Mitigation. J Earth Sci Clim Change. 7:366.

doi:10.4172/2157-7617.1000366