BIBLIOGRAPHY
ROMAN, MYRA P. MAY, 2011.Best Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers in Central, Kapangan, Benguet. Benguet State University La Trinidad Benguet
Adviser: Constantino T. Sudaypan Sr. Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
The study documented the best practices of bell pepper farmers in Central, Kapangan in the province of Benguet relative to sourcing of seeds, sowing of seeds, land preparation, transplanting, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease management, harvesting and postharvest. It also identified the problems encountered by the farmers along with the different stages of bell pepper production. It was conducted at Central, Kapangan, in the province of Benguet. Actual site visits and data gathering were undertaken in December 2010. All the farmers who have been growing bell pepper for at least five years were the respondents.
As to the profile of the respondents, majority are males and married. Results imply that farming is dominated by males. The respondents have ages ranging from 21- 60 years old. This shows that age is not a major factor considered in farming. All the respondents have gone to school but only few are high school and college graduates.
According to the respondents who did not finished college, they were constrained by financial problems.
With regards to the findings of the study, the respondents produce their own seeds and buy supplementary seeds from trusted relatives and friends. The seeds they produced
are properly placed in bottle containers and appropriately stored in well-ventilated and secured area of the house. They directly sow seeds on seedbeds without osmo- conditioning. After which, the seedbed is irrigated daily. Spraying of pesticide is undertaken when necessary. As to the preparation of seedbed, the respondentspulverize the soil, sterilize it buy burning weeds on top, lay plastic mat on elevated seedbed, spread sterilize soil, sow seeds, irrigate and cover the seedbed with net or poly-ethylene plastic (locally known as tunnel type). On land preparation, the respondents clean grass/weeds, plow and harrow the area, dig the plots, prepare hills, fertilize hills and ready for planting. In transplanting seedlings, the respondents irrigate first the seedbed, chuck and individually uproot the seedlings, place them on commercial or indigenous tray, and transplant.
As to irrigation, the bell pepper farmers practice daily manual irrigation with the use of hosepipe. On fertilization, the respondents apply complete fertilizer and chicken dung as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing, and occasionally spray foliar fertilizer. Regarding the management of pests and diseases, the respondents plant bell pepper inside structured greenhouse to control the environment. Moreover, they occasionally spray pesticides.
With regards to harvesting, majority of the respondents harvest bell pepper fruits with bare hands even though it is still green as long as matured. Harvesting is accordingly done in the morning. The postharvest practices of the bell pepper farmers are interpreted in three areas: packaging, transporting and marketing. As to packaging, the best practice of the farmers is to wipe the fruits with wet cloth to remove soil particles and grade as small, medium, and big. The sorted sizes are packed in different baskets and labeled
properly.The harvested bell pepper fruits are transported through the public utility transport system. On the other hand, the respondents sell their harvest at the provincial market, either at La Trinidad Trading Post or Baguio City. Only few respondents sell their harvest at the Municipal Market.
The respondents encountered various problems along the different stages of bell pepper production. The problems on seed sourcing include: high cost of seeds;
difficultyin producing seeds; scarcity of seed source; and dishonesty of some suppliers to quality of their seeds.
As to sowing of seeds, the respondents cited the presence of pests and diseases as their common problem. There were instances wherein the seeds were eaten by ants and/or birds. The respondents lack financial resources for payment of additional manpower during land preparation. As to transplanting of seedlings, the respondents claimed that it is limited only in the afternoon. This is to elude from the heat of the sun that can stress the seedlings. Otherrespondents are burdened with the scarcity of water during summer and high cost of fuel for water pumps.
Relative to fertilization, the respondents mentioned high cost of fertilizer as their problem. Few respondents revealed that some chicken dung bought from outlets are mixed with sand, sawdust and other foreign materials. Furthermore, there were few respondents who claimed that pests are immune with pesticides, and pesticides are somewhat of poor quality that they cannot control pest and diseases.
As to harvesting, therespondents accepted that some fruits are unintentionally detached from the mother plant during harvest. Few respondents, probably those who have wide farms revealed that they lack manpower. As to packaging, the respondents
claimed that packaging materials are costly, and are sometimes not enough in the community. On the other hand, damages on bell pepper are visible when the public utility vehicle is jam-packed with passengers because there is no separate transport system for vegetable and/or crops.
On the problems encountered on marketing, the respondents cited the absence of fixed price for bell pepper for it can go as low as Php 5.00 per kilo. On the other hand, there were respondents who complained that the buyers are stingy wherein their products are priced at its minimum.
As to recommendations, the farmers should find ways and means to sustain their best practices in the production of bell pepper in order to maintain the identity of Central as bell pepper producing community in Kapangan, Benguet. Moreover, the farmers may also share their best practices as to bell pepper production so it can be replicated to other agricultural communities.
To evade from the high cost of seeds, the farmers should enhance their knowledge in producing their own seeds. As to the problem on stingy/deceitful/tricky suppliers/buyers, it may be minimized if the farmers will organize themselves into a cooperative. As such, all farm inputs and outputs will be coursed through the cooperative.
INTRODUCTION Rationale
Bell pepper (Capsicum anuum L.) also known as Capsicum, kampana or lara is most widely used condiment all over the world. It is consumed fresh, dried or processed.
There are several types: green, yellow, orange, violet and brown (PCARRD, 2007).
Together with eggplant, tomato, potato, it belongs to a group of vegetables called solanaceous crop. It is also known as capsicum, pepper, chili, aji, or paprika. Within the species are hot pepper, paprika, chili and cayenne. The other pepper species includes the most pungent Capsicum Chinese Jacquin-habaňero, Capsicum frutescens-tabasco, malaguenta (Anonymous, undated).
In the Philippines, production area covers 2,439 ha including other sweet pepper types. Top producers are the Cordillera Administrative Region (676 ha), Region I (255 ha), Region 7 (224 ha) and region 10 (449 ha) (PCARRD, 2009).
Bell pepper or green pepper is a tender warm season vegetable. It requires somewhat higher temperature and grows more slowly. In Central, Kapangan, Benguet, farming has been always been a major industry. Cucumber used to be a profitable commercial crop but production has greatly decreased in quality and quantity due to a disease. Currently, bell pepper is one of the vegetables widely produced for commercial purposes (Central Barangay Profile, 2009).
Central, Kapangan, Benguet, has a temperate climate. Just like any part of Benguet, it is classified under “type A” climate having two pronounced season namely dry and wet seasons. Dry season during the months of November to April (water shortage problem is apparent during these months), and wet season during the months of May to
December (Central Barangay Profile, 2009). Pepper is sensitive to temperature poor set and blossom drop below 60°F (15.6) or day temperature rise above 85°F (24.4) (Anonymous, undated).
Farmers are using the technology called “tunnel greenhouse” which uses transparent cellophanes, bamboo and other needed materials (rubbers) to protect the plants from distractive elements and excessive moisture. The operational cost for the production of bell pepper is costly high but it is a high value crop especially when the demand in public market is high and the price is consequently high (Central Barangay Profile, 2009).
Statement of the Problem
Bell pepper is one of the commercial crops commonly produced in Central, Kapangan. Accordingly, the cost of production is high but it is compensated when the demand in the market is high (Central Barangay Profile, 2009). However, there is no substantive document that can appropriately account the production of the bell pepper in the community. This study therefore expect to source out answers to the following questions:
1.What are the characteristics of the bell pepper farmers as to age, gender, civil status, highest educational attainment, main source of income, and numbers of years in growing bell pepper?;
2. What are the practices of the bell pepper farmers relative to sourcing of seeds, sowing of seeds, land preparation, transplanting, irrigation, fertilization, pests and diseases management, harvesting, and postharvest?; and
3. What are the problems encountered by the farmers in growing bell pepper?
Objectives of the Study
Generally, the study aims to document the best practices of bell pepper farmers in Central Kapangan, Benguet. In line with this general objective, the specific objectives are the following:
1. Characterize the bell pepper farmers as to age, gender, civil status, highest educational attainment, main source of income, and number of years in growing
bell pepper;
2 .Document the practices of bell pepper farmers relative to sourcing of seeds, sowing of seeds, land preparation, transplanting, irrigation, fertilization, pests and diseases management, harvesting, and postharvest; and
3. Identify the problems encountered by the farmers in growing bell pepper.
Importance of the Study
Results of the study may become valuable inputs that can help the Local Government Unit of Central Kapangan in conceptualizing development programs that will help the farmers. Furthermore, the findings can give realistic information to people who want to venture on bell pepper production.
Scope and Limitations
The study focused on the characterization of the practices of bell pepper farmers relative to sourcing of seeds, growing of seeds, land preparation, transplanting, irrigation, fertilization, pests and diseases management, harvesting and postharvest. Furthermore, the study includes the problems encountered by the farmers in growing bell pepper.
On the other hand, the study was limited to farmers who have been growing bell pepper for at least five years. It is believed that five years of experience is considerably enough for the farmer to evolve best practices in bell pepper production.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Description of Bell Pepper
Pepper (Capsicum spp.) is native to Central and South America. Portuguese traders introduce them to India, Indonesia, and other parts of Asia around 450-500 years ago. They quickly adapted to the wide range of Agro-ecological zones of Asia. They were adopted by local people so quickly that in 1542, the botanist Leonhard Fuchs of Germany recorded them as native to India (PCARRD, 2009).
Pepper belongs to the genus Capsicum, which probably comes from the latin capsa, meaning chest or box, because of its shape. The small medium sized hot peppers, and the big sweet peppers, and pretty plants, 12 to 24 inches tall, which looks well in the ornamental ped or anywhere else you have a bit space (PCARRD, 2007).
Sweet pepper or Bell Pepper is popular in temperate countries and is widely grown in greenhouse in Northern Europe, Southern Europe, the Middle East in North America. The large hallow fruits are generally red when ripe, but many yellow and there varieties which are blackish purple when mature. They are fast growing annual, and grow best in drier part of the tropics. Seed should be sown under glass in March or early April.
The young plants can be kept as warm possible unit hot weather has arrived (Phillips and Rix, 1977).
Sweet peppers have a medley spicy flavor with overtone of sugar, and freshly picked specimen is surprisingly juicy as well. They grow into comparatively large fruit, varying in shape from long and conical to square and almost round: the long once can grow to as much smaller. The plants grow quickly and carry most of their leaves near the
top of the plant and white flowers appear in midsummer in cool temperature climate.
Fruit sets easily and prolifically often has to be thinned.
Also pepper is usually planted as a monocrop both in upland and lowland during the last cool months of the year (December to February) often the rainy season. In the lowlands it is planted after rice. In the highlands (Benguet Province) imported varieties like California Wonder and Yolo Wonder are also grown. These lines are not well adapted to low elevations planting and also highly susceptible to bacterial wilt. Many growers are producing their own seeds and also a few use imported certified seeds for planting. However, there is no information available on the volume of seed produced and imported. In the Institute of Plant Breeding of the UP College of Agriculture, produced seed of locally developed cultivars are sold directly to growers. Seed supply for imported sweet pepper is mainly from seeds houses which import the seed (PCARRD, 2009).
Soil and Climate Requirements
Sweet pepper requires cool weather for best fruit quality. In low elevated areas.
Plantation starts on the second week of October up to the first week of November. In mid-and high elevations, it can be grown throughout the year (PCARRD, 2009). Sweet pepper grows best in sandy loam soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. It cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Seedling Production
About 100-200g of seeds is needed for 1-hectare planting. Prepare five seedbeds measuring 1x10 m each. Pulverize the soil and incorporate 1kg fully decomposed chicken manure and 300g carbonized rice hull per m2. Wet the seedbeds and make shallow lines
7-10 cm apart across the seedbeds. Soak the seeds overnight to hasten germination. Air dry and sow thinly. Cover lightly with soil and mulch with rice hull or chopped rice straw. For hybrid seeds, prick in nursery trays at two leaf stage. Provide partial shade.
During wet season, provide plastic roofing to protect the seedlings from heavy rain.
Harden seedlings one week before transplanting by exposing fully to sunlight and watering only when the plants show signs of temporary wilting (PCARRD, 2009).
Irrigation/Water Management
Crop response to water will vary strongly from crop to crop depending on its specific genetic characteristics and adaptation to ecological conditions. The specific crop water information for the different crops is compiled in a crop-based data base. This includes crop water parameters, yield response to water, as well as specific crop water management practices (Anonymous, undated). Irrigate the field ones every 7-10 days.
Sufficient irrigation water is critical during the early vegetative stage and during flowering time until the peak of the fruit setting stage.
Fertilization
During planting, apply 10g/hill 14-14-14 and side dress with 46-0-0 every two weeks at 5-10g/hill depending on plant growth. During flowering stage, apply a 1:1 mixture of 46-0-0 and 0-0-60 at 10g/hill. Apply tea manure and fermented plant juice as supplementary fertilizer during the vegetative stage. To prepare tea manure, soak ¾ sack dry cow/horse manure in a plastic drum filled with 189.25 L water for seven days. To prepare fermented plant juice, mix equal parts of chopped actively growing plant parts and molasses or brown sugar. Prepare fermented fruit juice in the same way using
chopped fruits. After one week of fermentation, extract the juice and apply as foliar fertilizer at 1tbsp/3.785 L water (PCARRD, 2009).
Pests and Diseases Management
One of the most common pest common in bell pepper plant is Thrips, the nature and damage of this pest is it attacks the upper and lower sides of the leaves by sucking the sap. Areas near the mid-vain are brown and dried up. The major damage occurs on the undersides of new or old leaves. Recommended management of this pest is to use pesticides. Aphids are also present in this crop, young and adults feed on the underside of leaves by sucking the sap. Leaves became distorted, stunted and often curled under. The upper leaf surface is sticky and has a block moldy growth. Another pest that attacks bell pepper is the bell pepper Broad Mite, direct feeding on leaves of pepper causes the leaves to become distorted and curled downward. Young leaves are cupped downward and narrow than normal. Botanical pesticides/compounds may be tried such as nem extact, water, or Madre de Cacao can be use for this pest.
Plant pathologists take many different approaches to diagnosing plant disease problems. The first step is to decide whether the problem is a plant disease. The broadest definition of plant disease includes anything that adversely affects plant health. This definition can include such factors as nutrient deficiencies, lawnmower damage, air pollution, and pathogens. A stricter definition usually includes a persistent irritation resulting in plant damage. This excludes mechanical damage such as lawnmower injury to trees or natural events such as hail or lightning. A very strict definition includes only those (living) things that replicate themselves and spread to adjacent plants. This includes such biological organisms as nematodes, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Plants damaged by
macroscopic organisms, such as deer, rodents, and birds usually are not considered to be diseased (Skinner, 1995).
Just like other crop, bell pepper are also attacked with diseases, some of this are Bacterial Wilt, Anthracnose of Pepper, and Cercospora Leaf spot. Symptoms of Bacterial wilt are the wilting of the younger leaves or slight yellowing of the lower leaves. If such plant is pulled out, the roots and the lower part of the stem which appears normal on the outside will show burning on the water conducting tissue under the back of the stem and water socked appearance of the root. To avoid this, using of compost containing bacterial organism must be minimize.
Anthracnose of peppers occurs in the field and develops as a post-harvest decay of pepper fruits. Typical symptoms appear on mature fruits such as small water-soaked sunken lesion that expands rapidly. Lesion may appear in concentric rings. Another pest is Cercospora Leaf spot; early symptoms appear as small, circular water-soaked spots on leaves which later enlarge up to 1cm or more in diameter. Typical lesions are brown and circular with small to large lesion are brown and circular with small to large light gray centers and dark brown margins (PCARRD, 2009).
Harvesting
Quality of procedure at harvest cannot be improved. It can only be maintained.
Good quality is obtained when harvesting is done at the proper stage of maturity.
Immature fruits when harvested will give poor quality and erratic ripening. Vegetables harvested to soon may stay green loner but are poorer in quality. On the other hand, delayed harvesting of fruits and vegetables may increase the susceptibility to decay resulting in poor quality and hence low market value. Produce should be harvested at the
proper stage of maturity, considering the purpose and desire of the costumer (PCARRD, 2009).
Postharvest
Sort fruits according to market standards and separate deformed and damaged fruits, fresh fruits can be stored up to five weeks at 4°C and 95% relative humidity (PCARRD, 2009). Postharvest handling is specific term used for the movement of commodities from harvest to time immediately prior to meal preparation. It includes the technological aspect of marketing and distribution. Postharvest aims to help the harvested commodity in an acceptable state and food crops always palatable (Bautista, 1990). The practices involved in postharvest handling are harvesting, trimming, cleaning, grading, packaging and transplanting (AVRDC, 1990).
METHODOLOGY
Locale and Time of the Study
The study was conducted in Kapangan, Benguet (Figure 1) at Barangay Central (Figure 2). Located at the western part of the municipality, it is 2 kilometers away from the municipal town in Lomon, Paykek; and 30 kilometers from the Benguet provincial Capitol. The Barangay is composed of four sitios namely: Central Proper, Burgos Junction (former Sagubo Junction), Conig, and Salat.
Agricultural studies showed that the barangay is dominated by clay type soil.
Furthermore, it is classified under class ‘’A’’ land capacity, which indicates that the barangay has moderately good land but very steep, severely steep to excessively eroded, and shallow for cultivation. As such, the barangay is recommended for diversified crops suited for pasture with very careful management and definite restrictions (Central Barangay Profile, 2009).
On the other hand, actual site visits and data gathering were undertaken in December 2010.
Respondents of the Study
All the farmers in the barangay who have been growing bell pepper for at least five years were considered respondents of the study. In cases of family farms, the family head was given the priority to accomplish the questionnaire or answer follow up questions. In the absence of the family head, any of the children of voting age who can give reliable information was considered respondent.
Figure 1. Map of Kapangan, Benguet
Collection of Data
The researcher personally administered the survey questionnaires to the respondents on a house-to-house basis. The respondents with higher educational attainment accomplished the questionnaire themselves. On the other hand, the questionnaire served as interview guide to illiterate respondents. In other words, the researcher guided the respondents in the accomplishment of the questionnaire. Data gathering was made anytime depending on the respondent’s most convenient time during the day.
Research Instrument
A questionnaire was used to gather the necessary information regarding the production of bell pepper in Central, Kapangan, Benguet. Meanwhile, interview and actual observation were undertaken to validate answers of respondents.
Data Analysis
Data analysis started with the review and consolidation of answers to the questions on the questionnaire. Percentage, frequency distribution and mean were integrated in the descriptive presentation of answers to the questions.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section presents the profile of respondents as to their personal and farm information. It also reflects the best practices of farmers in growing bell pepper as to selection of seeds, sowing of seeds, seedbed preparation, land preparation, transplanting seedlings, irrigation, fertilization, pests and diseases management, harvesting, and postharvest. Moreover, the problems encountered by the farmers in growing bell pepper are also included.
Profile of Respondents
The profile of the respondents as to gender, civil status, age bracket, highest educational attainment, household’s source of income and number of years in growing bell pepper is shown in Table 1.
As shown in the table, majority of the respondents are males and married. Of the 34 respondents, nine are females and eight are single. Results imply that farming is dominated by males but this does not mean, however, that females have low participation in gardening.
The respondents have ages ranging from 21 to 60 years old. This shows that age is not a major factor considered in farming.
All the respondents have gone to school but 50% were elementary undergraduates. Only few respondents are high school and college graduates. According to the respondents who did not finish college, they were constrained by financial problems.
Table 1. Profile of respondents
PROFILE NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) a. Gender
Male 25 73.50
Female 9 26.50
TOTAL 34 100.00
b. Civil Status
Single 8 23.50
Married 26 76.50
TOTAL 34 100.00
c. Age Bracket
21-25 2 2.88
26-30 5 14.70
31-35 3 8.82
36-40 3 8.82
41-45 5 14.7
46-50 7 20.6
51-55 5 14.70
56-60 4 11.80
TOTAL 34 100.00
d. Highest Educational Attainment
No schooling 3 8.82
Elementary Undergraduate 17 50.00
Table 1 continued…
PROFILE NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
High school Graduate 8 23.53
College Graduate 6 17.65
TOTAL 34 100.00
e. Household’s Main Source of Income
Wages/Salaries/ Commissions 1 2.94
Pensions/Allotments 1 2.94
Remittance from abroad 7 20.58
Crop production 30 88.23
Livestock raising 12 35.29
Sari-sari store 5 14.70
Tricycle driver 1 2.94
*Multiple responses
f. Number of Years in Growing Bell Pepper
5 years 2 5.88
6-10 years 9 26.47
11-15 years 10 29.41
16-20 years 2 5.88
21-25 years 3 8.82
26-30 years 3 2.94
31-35 years 1 2.94
36-40 years 1 2.94
41-45 years 1 2.94
TOTAL 34 100.00
The table also shows that the main sources of income of the respondents are crop production livestock raising. Few respondents are relying from sari-sari stores and remittances from abroad. Each of three respondents lives through pensions/allotments, salaries/wages/commissions, and tricycle driving, respectively.
As to farm area almost 30% of respondents has been growing bell pepper from 11 to 15 years. At least nine respondents claimed to have been producing bell pepper from 6 to 10 years. Only two respondents produced bell pepper for 5 years.
Moreover, 11 farmers, in an uneven distribution, have been growing bell pepper from 16 to 45 years. This implies that the respondents have long experiences in growing and/or producing bell pepper. Findings affirm that farming is a major activity in Central, Kapangan, Benguet, and bell pepper is one of the vegetables widely produced for commercial purposes (Central Barangay Profile, 2009).
Farm Profile of Respondents
The farm profile of the respondents as to ownership status of farm, total farm area, and varieties of bell pepper grown is shown in Table 2.
Regarding to ownership status, majority of the respondents own the farm. There are twelve respondents who rent the area and at least four respondents farm the area for free.
As to farm area, almost 30 percent of the respondents grow bell pepper in a 210- 300 square meter area. In a descending order of preference, the farm areas of the other respondents are as follows: 200m2 or less and 310-400 m2, 410-500m2, 510-700m2, and 710-800m2.
Table 2. Farm profile of respondents
PROFILE NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) a. Ownership status of farm
Owned 18 52.94
Leased 12 35.29
Just farm for free 4 11.76
TOTAL 34 100.00
b. Farm area (m2)
200 or less 8 23.53
210-300 10 29.41
310-400 8 23.59
410-500 3 8.82
510-600 2 5.88
610-700 2 5.88
710-800 1 2.94
TOTAL 34 100.00
c. Varieties of bell pepper
California 33 97.06
Plastic 5 14.70
Chinese 1 2.94
*Multiple responses
Regarding the varieties of bell pepper planted, almost all of the respondents plant California .According to the respondents they plant California variety because it is the most common variety planted by their neighbors and it suits the climate of the area.
Result of the study reveals that majority of the respondents own small parcels of land good for agricultural production. Traditionally, these areas are cultivated with rice during the rainy season and bell pepper during the dry months. Relatively, researches of the Philippine council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources, Researches and Development (2009) revealed that in the highland areas of Benguet Province, imported varieties of bell pepper like California Wonder are grown after rice.
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to sourcing of seeds
Table 3 shows that 50% of the respondents produce their own seeds and buy supplementary seeds from trusted relatives and friends. In a descending order of preference, the other practices are as follows: produce own seeds; buy from trusted relatives and supplement from accredited suppliers; and buy from accredited suppliers or produce own seeds and supplement by buying from accredited suppliers. Results signify the vigilance of the farmers in sourcing of seeds. It may be inferred that the best practice of the farmers as to sourcing of seeds is to produce their own and supplement it from trusted relatives and friends.
According to the respondents, the seeds they produced are properly placed in bottle containers and appropriately stored in well-ventilated and secured area of the house (Figure 3). Nevertheless, they supplement it with seeds produced by trusted relatives and friends. The findings confirms the claim of PCCARD (2009), that many bell pepper growers are producing their own seeds and few use imported certified seeds for planting.
In the Institute of plant breeding of the UP College of Agriculture, produced seed of locally developed cultivars are sold directly to growers.
Table 3. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to sourcing of bell pepper seeds
PROFILE NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
Produce own seeds 9 26.74
Buy from trusted relatives and
friends 3 8.82
Buy from accredited suppliers 1 2.94
Produce own seeds and
supplement from trusted relatives
and friends 17 50.00
Produce own seeds and supplement by buying from
accredited suppliers 1 2.94
Buy from trusted relatives and supplement from accredited
suppliers 4 11.76
*Multiple responses
Figure 3. Locally produced bell pepper seeds are properly placed in bottle containers and
appropriately stored in well-ventilated/secured area of the house
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Sowing of Seeds
Table 4 shows that most of the respondents directly sow seeds on seedbeds without osmo-conditioning. After which, the seedbed is irrigated daily. Spraying of pesticide is undertaken when necessary. Figure 4 shows seeds sown on seedbed. On the other hand, nine farmers practice osmo-conditioning prior to sowing. According to the respondents, they wrap the seeds in cloth and subject them to intermittent osmo- conditioning as shown in Figure 5. Eventually they sow the seeds on the seedbeds when primary stage of germination (cracking) occurs. The seedbed is irrigated daily and pesticide is sprayed when necessary. Findings revealed that the common practice of farmers is to sow the seeds and spray with pesticides when necessary. Nevertheless, there were some who practice intermittent osmo-conditioning. Accordingly to PCARRD (2009), one practice in sowing the bell pepper seeds is to soak the seeds overnight to hasten germination.
Table 4. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to sowing of seeds
PRACTICES NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Wrap seeds with clean cloth and
subject to intermittent osmo- conditioning in water for 10 days and sow on seedbed when primary stage of germination (cracking) occurs, irrigate daily, spray with
pesticides when necessary 9 26.47
Directly sow seeds without osmo- conditioning, irrigate daily, spray
with pesticides when necessary 25 73.53
TOTAL 34 100.00
Figure 4. Bell pepper seeds are thinly sown on elevated seedbed
Figure 5. Intermittent osmo-conditioning of seeds
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Seedbed Preparation
As to the preparation of seedbeds, Table 5 shows that the greatest number of respondents pulverize the soil, sterilize it buy burning weeds on top, lay plastic mat on elevated seedbed, spread sterilize soil, sow seeds, irrigate and cover the seedbed with net or poly-ethylene plastic (tunnel type). Moreover, many respondents prepare plots as flat seedbed, pulverize the soil, irrigate, sow seeds, and cover the seed bed with net or poly- ethylene plastic (tunnel type).
Table 5. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to seedbed preparation PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Pulverize soil and sterilize through
cooking in improvised containers (drums), spread on elevated seedbed, fertilize, sow seeds, mulch with grass to avoid exposure of seeds, irrigate, construct canal surrounding seedbed with continuous water flow to prevent
access of ants and other crawling insects 10 29.41
Pulverize soil and sterilize by burning weeds on top, lay plastic mat on elevated seedbed, spread sterilized soil, sow seeds, irrigate, cover with net or
polyethylene (tunnel type) 16 47.06
Pulverize soil and lay plastic mat on elevated seedbed, spread unsterilized soil, sow seeds, irrigate, cover with net
or polyethylene (tunnel type) 5 14.71
Prepare plot as seedbed, pulverize soil, sow seeds, irrigate, cover with net or
polyethylene (tunnel type) 13 38.24
*Multiple responses
There were 10 respondents who pulverize the soil, sterilize it through improvised containers (drums), spread it on elevated seedbed, fertilize, sow the seeds and mulch the soil with grass to avoid exposure, construct canal surrounding the seedbed with continuous water flow to avoid access of ants and other crawling insects.
Few respondents pulverize the soil, lay plastic mat on elevated seedbed, spread unsterilized soil, sow seeds, irrigate, and cover the seedbed with net or poly-ethylene plastic (tunnel type). According to the respondents, adoption of practices as to seedbed preparation is influenced by the availability of materials like plastic mats, net or poly- ethylene plastics.
Likewise, the option of elevating the seedbed comes along with the presence of livestock and other threats in the area. Figure 6 and 7 shows a sample of elevated and flat seedbed, respectively.
Figure 6. Sample of an elevated seedbed
Figure 7. Sample of flat seedbed
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Land Preparation
As to land preparation, Table 6 shows that 40% of the respondents clean grass/weeds, plow and harrow the area, dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize hills and ready for planting. It may be inferred that this is the best practice of farmers vis-à-vis land preparation. In a descending order of preference, the following are the practices of other respondents: plow area, harrow after sometime (when grass/weeds are dried), dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize and ready for planting; clean grass/weeds, plow area, harrow after sometime, dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize and ready for planting; spray herbicide, plow area, harrow after sometime, dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize and ready for planting; Plow area, dig plots, fertilize and ready for planting; and clean grass/weeds, dig plots, fertilize and ready for planting; dig plots, fertilize and ready for planting.
Few of the respondents clean grass/weeds; dig plots; fertilized them and ready them for planting. According to the respondents, traditional practices are still prevailing
as to land preparation. Adoption of other practices depends on whether it resulted to greater benefits or not. Figure 8 shows a farm ready for cultivation.
Table 6. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to land preparation PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Plow area, harrow after sometime (when
grass/weeds, are dried), dig plots, prepare
hills, fertilize & ready for planting 8 23.52
Clean grass/weeds, plow area, harrow after sometime, dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize
and ready for planting 14 40.00
Spray herbicides, plow area, harrow after sometime, dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize
and ready for planting 7 20.58
Plow area, dig plots, fertilize and ready for
planting 2 5.71
Clean grass/weeds, dig plots fertilize and
ready for planting 4 11.76
*Multiple responses
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Transplanting of Seedlings
Table 7 shows that 50 percent of the respondents irrigate the seedbed, chuck and individually uproot the seedlings, place them on commercial or indigenous tray, and transplant. The other practices of the respondents, in a descending order of preference, are the following: irrigate seedbed, chuck and uproot seedlings by cluster, place on commercial or indigenous tray and transplant; uproot seedlings individually and transplant; chuck seedlings and uproot individually and transplant; chuck seedlings and uproot by cluster and transplant. Figure 9 shows a bell pepper seedling being transplanted.
Table 7. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to transplanting seedlings PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Irrigate seedbed, chuck individually,
uproot seedlings, place on commercial
or indigenous tray and transplant 17 50.00
Irrigate seedbed, chuck and uproot seedlings by cluster, place on commercial or indigenous tray and
transplant 10 29.41
Chuck seedlings and uproot
individually and transplant 2 5.88
Chuck seedlings and uproot by cluster
and transplant 2 5.88
Uproot seedlings individually and
transplant 5 14.71
*Multiple responses
Figure 9. Transplanting of bell pepper seedling
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Irrigation
As shown in Table 8, a great majority of the bell pepper farmers practice daily manual irrigation with the use of hosepipe. Seven respondents manually irrigate their plants and five respondents alternately use watering cans and hosepipe. One of the respondents claimed to have tried 30 minutes flooding but due to lack of water he stopped this type of irrigation.
According to the 24 respondents who manually irrigate daily with the use of hosepipe, it is the most effective way of irrigating their plants inside the tunnel because the bamboo frames hinder the entry of watering cans along the tunnels.
Furthermore the bell pepper plants are being destroyed when caught by the sides of watering can. Figure 10 shows the best practice of the farmers in irrigating their bell pepper plants.
Table 8. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to irrigation PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Manually irrigate daily with
the use of watering can 7 20.59
Manually irrigate daily with
the use of hosepipe 24 70.58
Manually irrigate daily with
watering can and hosepipe 5 14.71
Irrigate through 30-minute flooding from vegetative to
maturity stage 1 2.94
*Multiple responses
Figure 10. Manual irrigation through the use of hosepipe
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Fertilizer Application
Table 9 shows that 35 percent apply complete fertilizer and chicken dung as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing, and occasionally spray foliar fertilizer.
Table 9. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to fertilization PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Apply complete fertilizer and
chicken dung as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing, occasionally fertigate with the urea from vegetative to maturity
stage 11 32.35
Apply chicken dung and ashes as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing occasionally
fertigate with urea 9 26.47
Apply complete fertilizer and compost as basal, apply chicken dung during side dressing,
occasionally fertigate with urea 1 2.94
Apply chicken dung as basal, apply
compost during side dressing 1 2.94
Apply complete fertilizer as basal and chicken dung as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing, occasionally spray foliar
fertilizer 12 35.29
*Multiple responses
There were 11 respondents who apply complete fertilizer as basal, apply complete fertilizer as side dressing and occasionally fertigate with urea from vegetative to maturity stage. Nine respondents apply chicken dung and ashes as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing and occasionally fertigate with urea. Each of two respondents apply complete fertilizer and compost as basal, apply chicken dung during side dressing, and occasionally fertigate with urea; and chicken dung as basal and applies compost during side dressing, respectively. Figure 11 shows a plot inside a tunnel applied with ashes.
Figure 11. Ashes applied as basal fertilizer on hills of a plot inside a tunnel
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Pests and Diseases Management
Regarding the management of pests and diseases, Table 10 shows that nearly 60%
of the respondents plant bell pepper inside structured greenhouse to control the environment. Moreover, they occasionally spray pesticides. According to the respondents, this is their best practice. There were 50% among the respondents who control weeds by spraying herbicides. Few respondents claimed to have controlled rodents with “saltok”, an indigenous and environment-friendly mechanism to catch rodents. Only one respondent accepted to have controlled weeds manually and/or through the use of hand tools. According to the respondents, they also wish to adopt the tunnel- technology but they are hindered by the absence of funds. Figure 12 and 13 shows a sample of bell pepper farm integrated with easy tunnel poly-ethylene greenhouse and a farmer spraying pesticide during the early stage of the bell pepper plants, respectively.
Table 10. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to pests and diseases management PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Occasionally (when necessary) spray
pesticides 8 23.53
Plant bell pepper inside structured greenhouse to control environment of bell pepper, occasionally spray of
pesticides 20 58.82
Secure bell pepper plants from excessive rainfall and harmful insect with easy tunnel polyethylene greenhouse,
occasional spray of pesticides 5 14.71
Control rodents with indigenous
technologies (“saltok”) 8 23.00
Weeds are removed manually or through
the use of hand tools 1 2.94
Weeds are sprayed with herbicides 17 50.00
* Multiple responses
Figure 12. Sample of bell pepper farm integrated with easy tunnel poly-ethylene
Figure 13. A farmer spraying pesticides during the early stage of the bell pepper plants
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Harvesting
Table 11 shows that majority of the respondents harvest bell pepper fruits with bare hands even though it is still green as long as matured. Harvesting is accordingly done in the morning. This is inferred to as the best practice.
Eight respondents harvest assorted bell pepper fruits by using bare hands in the morning, and two harvests with bare hands in the afternoon when fruit is matured but still green. Each of four respondents claimed to have done the following practices: harvest by using knife/scissors when fruit mature still green in the afternoon; harvest with bare hands in the morning when fruit is ripe, harvest fruits assorted by using knife/scissor in the morning; if price is high, harvest the fruits even green but matured.
According to the respondents, the first harvest is at an average of 3 months after transplanting date. Figure 14 shows a farmer presenting her fleshly harvested bell pepper fruits.
Table 11. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to harvesting PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Harvesting with bare hands when fruit is
matured but still green, harvest in the
morning 20 58.82
Harvest with bare hands when fruit is matured but still green, harvest in the
afternoon 2 5.88
Harvest by using knife/scissors when fruit is
mature but still green in the afternoon 1 2.94
Harvest with bare hands in the morning
when fruit is ripe 1 2.94
Harvest fruits assorted (green, half ripe) by
using bare hands in the morning 8 23.53
Harvest fruits assorted (green, half ripe, fully ripe) by using knife/scissor in the
morning 1 2.94
If price is high, harvest the fruits even green
but matured 1 2.94
TOTAL 34 100.00
The PCCARD (2009) claimed that good quality is obtained when harvesting is done at the proper stage of maturity, immature fruits when harvested will give poor quality and erratic ripening.
Practices of Bell Pepper Farmers as to Postharvest
As shown in Table 12, the postharvest practices of the bell pepper farmers are interpreted in three areas: packaging, transporting and marketing. As to packaging, the best practice of the farmers is to wipe the fruits with wet cloth to remove soil particles and grade as small, medium, and big. The sorted sizes are packed in different baskets and labeled properly.
The other packaging practices, in a descending order of preference, are as follows:
bell pepper fruits are graded each assorted sizes are packed in different sacks and properly labeled; bell pepper fruits are wiped with wet cloth to remove soil particles and packed assorted in sacks and properly labeled; bell pepper fruits are wiped with wet cloth to remove soil particles and packed assorted in baskets. Figure 15 shows a group of farmers, sorting, grading, and packing newly harvested bell pepper fruits.
As to transporting, results show that almost 60% of the respondents transport harvested bell pepper fruits through the public utility transport system. Few respondents claimed that their harvests are either transported through own vehicle or farmer financers. This implies that most farmers depend more on public utilities because only few own vehicles. On the other hand, more than 90% of the respondents sell their harvest at the provincial market, either at La Trinidad Trading Post or Baguio City. Only few respondents sell their harvest at the Municipal Market.
Table 12. Practices of bell pepper farmers as to postharvest PRACTICES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) a. Packaging
Bell pepper fruits are wiped with wet clothes to remove soil particles and graded (small, medium, big) each sorted size are packed in different baskets and properly
labeled 28 82.35
Bell pepper fruits are wiped with cloth to remove soil particles and graded (small, medium, big) each assorted sizes are packed
in different sacks and properly labeled 2 5.88
Bell pepper fruits are graded (small,
medium, big) each assorted sizes are packed
in different baskets and properly labeled 5 14.71
Bell pepper fruits are wiped with wet cloth to removes soil particles and packed
assorted in basket 1 2.94
b. Transporting
Transport harvested bell pepper fruits
through own vehicle 8 23.52
Transport harvested bell pepper through the
public utility transport system 20 58.82
Harvested bell pepper fruits are picked by
farmer financiers(suppliers) 13 38.23
c. Marketing
Bell pepper fruits are sold at the municipal
market (Lomon, Kapangan) 7 20.58
Bell pepper fruits are sold at the provincial market (either at the La Trinidad vegetable
trading post or Baguio City) 31 91.17
Bell pepper fruits are sold on retail basis 5 14.70
Bell pepper fruits are sold on wholesale
basis 31 91.17
Figure 15. A group of farmers, sorting, grading, and packing newly harvested bell pepper fruits
Results imply that farmers are willing to transport and sell their bell pepper fruits at the provincial market because of possibility to attain higher profit. Besides, 91% of the respondents sell their bell pepper fruits on a wholesale basis. Only few respondents sell their harvest on a retail basis.
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Sourcing of Seeds
As shown in Table 13, the problems encountered by the respondents in a descending order of gravity, are the following: high cost of seeds; difficult to produce own seeds; hard to find suppliers; and suppliers are not honest as to quality of seeds.
According to the respondents, the cost of bell pepper seed in a 4x4 (ginebra san miguel) bottle is Php3,000.00. Such amount adds to the other production costs, which burden the farmers.
Table 13. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to sourcing of seeds PROBLEMS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
Difficult to produce own seeds 13 38.24
Hard to find suppliers 3 8.82
Suppliers are not honest as to quality of
seeds 2 5.88
High cost of seeds 16 47.06
TOTAL 34 100.00
On the other hand, they further claimed that seed production is quite difficult because it needs a controlled environment and/or healthy plants to come up with quality seeds.
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Sowing of Seeds
Table 14 shows that almost all of the respondents cited the presence of pests and diseases as their common problem as to sowing of seeds. According to the respondents, there were instances wherein the seeds were eaten by ants and/or birds. Moreover, seeds and/or seedlings are attacked with diseases.
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Seedbed Preparation
Table 15 shows that most of the respondents cited destruction of the seedbeds by pests and /or wild fouls as common problem. Eight respondents mentioned construction of elevated seedbed as laborious. Some respondents related that there were instances when newly sown seeds are scattered by chickens of neighbors.
Table 14. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to sowing of seeds PROBLEMS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
Low germination rate 3 8.82
Seedlings are infested by pests and/or
diseases 31 91.18
TOTAL 34 100.00
Table 15. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to seedbed preparation PROBLEMS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N=34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
Making elevated seedbed is laborious 8 23.52
Seedbed is destroyed by rodents, pets
and/or wild fouls 26 76.47
TOTAL 34 100.00
Problems Encountered by the Bell Pepper Farmers as to Land Preparation
Table 16 shows that almost 60% of the respondents lack financial resources for payment of additional manpower during land preparation. There were 13 respondents who considered plowing/harrowing and /or digging plot as laborious which needs additional manpower. One respondent wanted to buy a tractor but it can’t be used in his farm due to the terrain.
Table 16. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to land preparation
PROBLEMS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Plowing / harrowing and digging plots
are laborious, additional man power is
needed 13 38.24
Lack of financial resources to pay
additional manpower 20 58.82
Want to buy mechanical implement (tractor) but can’t be used with the
terrain of my farm 1 2.94
TOTAL 34 100.00
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Transplanting
Table 17 shows that 70% of the respondents claimed that transplanting are limited only in the afternoon. This is to elude from the heat of the sun that can stress the seedlings. According to some respondents, they use thinly-barked banana trunks to cover the transported seedlings in the morning but it does not guarantee 100% survival rate. On the other hand, ten respondents claimed that some seedlings are destroyed while being uprooted.
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Irrigation
As shown in Table 18, 85% of the respondents are burdened with the scarcity of water during summer. Few respondents cited high cost of fuel for water pumps, and hosepipe as problems.
Table 17. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to transplanting PROBLEMS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Some seedling are destroyed while being
uprooted 10 29.41
Transplanting is limited in the afternoon
to elude from the heat of the sun 24 70.59
TOTAL 34 100.00
Table 18. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to irrigation PROBLEMS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
Scarcity of water during summer 29 85.29
High cost of hosepipe 2 5.88
High cost of fuel for water pump 3 8.82
TOTAL 34 100.00
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Fertilization
Table 19 shows the problems encountered by the bell pepper farmers as to fertilization. Relatively, 73% of the respondents mentioned high cost of fertilizer as their problem. Moreover, few respondents revealed that some chicken dung bought from outlets are mixed with sand, sawdust and other foreign materials.
Table 19. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to fertilization PROBLEMS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS (N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
High cost of fertilizers 25 73.53
Some chicken dung are mixed with
sand, sawdust, and others 9 26.47
TOTAL 34 100.00
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Pests and Diseases Management
Table 20 shows that 25 respondents are burdened with high cost of fertilizers. The cost of 14-14-14 and 46-0-0 is Php1, 150.00, and Php1, 095.00 (per sack), respectively.
Furthermore, there were few respondents who claimed that pests are immune with pesticides, and pesticides are somewhat of poor quality that they cannot control pest and diseases. According to the PCCARD (2009), bell pepper are also attacked with diseases, some of these are bacterial wilt, anthracnose pepper, and cercospora leaf spot.
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Harvesting
Table 21 shows the problems encountered by the farmers as to harvesting. There were 29 respondents who accepted that some fruits are unintentionally detached from the mother plant during harvest. Few respondents, probably those who have wide farms revealed that they lack manpower.
Table 20. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to pest and diseases
PROBLEMS NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%)
High cost of pesticides 25 73.53
Pests are immune with pesticides 5 14.71
Pesticides are somewhat of poor of quality that they cannot control pests
and diseases. 4 11.76
TOTAL 34 100.00
Table 21. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to harvesting
PROBLEMS NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) Some fruits are unintentionally
detached during harvest 29 85.29
Lack of manpower 5 14.71
TOTAL 34 100.00
Problems Encountered by Bell Pepper Farmers as to Postharvest
Table 22 shows the problems encountered by the farmers as to postharvest. As to packaging, 30 respondents claimed that packaging materials are costly. Likewise, 29 respondents said that packaging materials are sometimes not enough in the community.
As to the problems encountered in transporting, the table further shows that damages on bell pepper are visible when the public utility vehicle is jam-packed with passengers because there is no separate transport system for vegetable and/or crops.
Table 22. Problems encountered by bell pepper farmers as to postharvest
PROBLEMS NO. OF RESPONDENTS
(N = 34)
PERCENTAGE (%) a. Packaging
Packaging materials (be it basket and
cellophane) are sometimes costly 30 88.23
Packing materials (basket) is
sometimes lacking 29 85.39
*Multiple responses b. Transporting
Damages on bell pepper fruit are visible when public utility vehicle (PUV) is jam-packed with passengers because there is no separate transport
system for vegetables 32 94.12
There is isolated case of lost
packages 1 2.94
Low quality of pepper fruits 1 2.94
TOTAL 34 100.00
c. Marketing
No fixed cost of bell pepper, it can go
down as low as five pesos per kilo 24 70.59
Buyers are stingy, they always price
our product at its minimum 10 29.41
TOTAL 34 100.00
On the other hand, each of two respondents cited lost packages, and low quality of pepper fruits as problems.
On the problems encountered on marketing, 70% of the respondents cited the absence of fixed cost for bell pepper. According to the respondents, it can go as low as Php 5.00 per kilo. On the other hand, there were ten respondents who complained that the buyers are stingy. According to the respondents, their products are priced at its minimum.
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study documented the best practices of bell pepper farmers relative to sourcing of seed, sowing of seeds, land preparation, transplanting, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease management, harvesting and postharvest. It also identified the problems encountered by the farmers along with the different stages of bell pepper production. It was conducted at Central, Kapangan, in the province of Benguet. Actual site visits and data gathering were undertaken in December 2010. All the farmers who have been growing bell pepper for at least five years were the respondents.
A questionnaire was used to gather the necessary information regarding the production of bell pepper. The questionnaires were personally administered by the researcher. The family head was given the priority to accomplish the questionnaire or answer follow-up questions. Meanwhile, actual observation was undertaken to validate answers of respondents. Data analysis started with the review and consolidation of answers to the questions. Percentage, frequency distribution and mean were integrated in the descriptive presentation of answer to the questions.
As to the profile of the respondents, majority are males and married. Results imply that farming is dominated by males. The respondents have ages ranging from 21- 60 years old. This shows that age is not a major factor considered in farming. All the respondents have gone to school but only few are high school and college graduates.
According to the respondents who did not finished college, they were constrained by financial problems.
With regards to the findings of the study, fifty percent of the respondents produce their own seeds and buy supplementary seeds from trusted relatives and friends. In a descending order of preference, the other practices are as follows; produce own seeds, buy from trusted relatives and supplement from accredited suppliers, buy from trusted relatives and friends, and buy from accredited suppliers or produce own seeds and supplement by buying from accredited suppliers. The seeds they produced are properly placed in bottle containers and appropriately stored in well-ventilated and secured area of the house.
Most of the respondents directly sow seeds on seedbeds without osmo- conditioning. After which, the seedbed is irrigated daily. Spraying of pesticide is undertaken when necessary. On the other hand, few respondents practice intermittent osmo-conditioning prior to sowing.
As to the preparation of seedbed, the greatest number of respondents pulverize the soil, sterilize it buy burning weeds on top, lay plastic mat on elevated seedbed, spread sterilize soil, sow seeds, irrigate and cover the seedbed with net or poly-ethylene plastic (tunnel type). Moreover, many respondents prepare plots as flat seedbed, pulverize the soil, irrigate, sow seeds, and cover the seed bed with net or poly-ethylene plastic. There were 10 respondents who pulverize the soil, sterilize it through improvised containers (drums), spread it on elevated seedbed, fertilize, sow the seeds and mulch the soil with grass to avoid exposure, construct canal surrounding the seedbed with continuous water flow to avoid access of ants and other crawling insects. Few respondents pulverize the soil, lay plastic mat on elevated seedbed, spread unsterilized soil, sow seeds, irrigate, and cover the seedbed with net or poly-ethylene plastic.
On land preparation, 40% of the respondents clean grass/weeds, plow and harrow the area, dig the plots, prepare hills, fertilize hills and ready for planting. In a descending order of preference, the following are the practices of other respondents: plow area, harrow after sometime (when grass/weeds are dried), dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize and ready for planting; clean grass/weeds, plow area, harrow after sometime, dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize and ready for planting; spray herbicide, plow area, harrow after sometime, dig plots, prepare hills, fertilize and ready for planting; plow area, dig plots, fertilize and ready for planting; clean grass/weeds, dig plots, fertilize and ready for planting; dig plots, fertilize and ready for planting.
In transplanting seedlings, 50% of the respondents irrigate first the seedbed, chuck and individually uproot the seedlings, place them on commercial or indigenous tray, and transplant. The other practices of the respondents, in a descending order of preference, are the following: irrigate seedbed, chuck and uproot seedlings by cluster, place on commercial or indigenous tray and transplant; uproot seedlings individually and transplant; chuck seedlings and uproot individually and transplant; chuck seedlings and uproot by cluster and transplant.
As to irrigation, a great majority of the bell pepper farmers practice daily manual irrigation with the use of hosepipe. Seven respondents manually irrigate their plants and five respondents alternately use watering cans and hosepipe. One of the respondents claimed to have tried 30 minutes flooding but due to lack of water he stopped this type of irrigation.
As to fertilization, 35% of the respondents apply complete fertilizer and chicken dung as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing, and occasionally spray
foliar fertilizer. There were 11 respondents who apply complete fertilizer as basal, apply complete fertilizer as side dressing and occasionally fertigate with urea from vegetative to maturity stage. Nine respondents apply chicken dung and ashes as basal, apply complete fertilizer during side dressing and occasionally fertigate with urea. Each of two respondents apply complete fertilizer and compost as basal, apply chicken dung during side dressing, and occasionally fertigate with urea; and chicken dung as basal and applies compost during side dressing, respectively.
Regarding the management of pests and diseases, nearly 60% of the respondents plant bell pepper inside structured greenhouse to control the environment. Moreover, they occasionally spray pesticides. According to the respondents, this is their best practice.
With regards to harvesting, majority of the respondents harvest bell pepper fruits with bare hands even though it is still green as long as matured. Harvesting is accordingly done in the morning. This is inferred to as the best practice. According to the respondents, the first harvest is at an average of 3 months after transplanting date.
The postharvest practices of the bell pepper farmers are interpreted in three areas:
packaging, transporting and marketing. As to packaging, the best practice of the farmers is to wipe the fruits with wet cloth to remove soil particles and grade as small, medium, and big. The sorted sizes are packed in different baskets and labeled properly. The other packaging practices, in a descending order of preference, are as follows: bell pepper fruits are graded each assorted sizes are packed in different sacks and properly labeled;
bell pepper fruits are wiped with wet cloth to remove soil particles and packed assorted in sacks and properly labeled; bell pepper fruits are wiped with wet cloth to remove soil particles and packed assorted in baskets.
