Prepare Land For Agricultural Crops Production

Competency- Based Learning Material
Sector:
AGRI-FISHERY SECTOR
Qualification:
Agricultural Crops Production NC III
Unit of Competency:
Prepare land for agricultural crop production
Module Title:
Preparing land for agricultural crop production
Technical Education and Skills Development

Authority
Camiguin Polytechnic State College

Catarman Campus
CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

Crops Production
CPSC NC III April 2015 Issued by:
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SYSTEM Preparing land for
Prepared by: Revision # 00
agricultural crops Libby Jay R. Cascon
production
How to Use This Competency-Based Learning Material
Welcome!
The unit of competency, “Prepare land for agricultural crops production ” is one
of the competencies in AGRICULTURAL CROPS PRODUCTION NC III, a course
which comprises the knowledge, skills and attitude required for an individual to be
a Farm worker-manager, Farm manager, a Farm consultant in agricultural crops.
This module covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to

prepare equipment, cultivate the site, apply any pre-planting treatments, and care
for the vehicles and equipment on completing the activity. Equipment and
machinery may be animal- powered. It includes the completion of documentation
and logbooks for the operation.
In this module you are required to go through a series of learning activities

in order to complete each learning outcome. In each learning outcome are
Information Sheets, Self Checks, Task Sheets and Job Sheets. Follow and
perform the activities on your own. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask
assistance from your instructor.
Remember to:
 Read information Sheets and complete self checks. Suggested

references are included to supplement the materials provided in this
module.
 Perform the Task Sheets and Job Sheets until you are confident that
your outputs conform to the Performance Criteria Checklist that
follows the sheet.
 Submit outputs of the Task Sheets and Job Sheets to your facilitator
for evaluation and recording in the Accomplishment Chart. Outputs
shall serve as your portfolio during the Institutional Competency
Evaluation. When you feel confident that you have sufficient practice,
ask your trainer to evaluate you. The results of your assessment will
be recorded in your Progress Chart and Accomplishment Chart.
You must pass the Institutional Competency Evaluation for this competency before
moving to another competency. A Certificate of Achievement will be awarded to
you after passing the evaluation.

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AGRICULTURAL CROPS PRODUCTION NC III
List of Competencies
No. Unit of Competency Module Title Code
Prepare land for Preparing land AGR611310

1. agricultural crop for agricultural
production crop production
Implement a post-harvest Implementing a post- AGR611311

2
program harvest program
Implement a plant nutrition Implementing a plant AGR611312

3.
program nutrition program
AGR611313
4. Control weeds Controlling weeds
Preparing and AGR611314

5. Prepare and apply chemicals
applying chemicals
Establishing AGR611315
6. Establish agronomic crops
agronomic crops
Undertaking
Undertake agronomic crop agronomic crop AGR611316
7
maintenance activities maintenance
activities
Undertaking AGR611316
Undertake agronomic crop
8. agronomic crop
harvesting activities
harvesting activities
Saving, preparing AGR611317

Save, prepare and store
9. and storing
agricultural seed
agricultural seed
AGR611318
10. Implement vertebrate pest Implementing

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vertebrate pest
control program
control program
Table of Contents
HOW TO USE THIS COMPETENCY –BASED MATERIAL …………….
LIST OF COMPETENCIES …………………….
TABLE OF CONTENTS ……………..
MODULE CONTENT ……
LEARNING OUTCOME # 1 – Prepare for Cultivation
LEARNING EXPERIENCES ……….
INFORMATION SHEET 1 Importance of Soil Sampling

INFORMATION SHEET 2 Land Preparation Practices

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MODULE CONTENT
QUALIFICATION : Agricultural Crops Production NC III

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : Prepare Land for Agricultural Crops
Production
MODULE : Preparing Land for Agricultural Crops
Production
INTRODUCTION:
This module covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to prepare
equipment, cultivate the site, apply any pre-planting treatments, and care for the
vehicles and equipment on completing the activity. Equipment and machinery may
be animal- powered. It includes the completion of documentation and logbooks for
the operation.
Preparing land for crop production is likely to be carried out under limited
supervision from others with checking only related to overall progress. Preparing
land for crop production is usually done within established routines, methods and
procedures. Some discretion and judgment is required in the selection of equipment
and materials, organization of work and services.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
At the end of this module you will be able to:
 Prepare for cultivation
 Prepare the cultivating equipment
 Cultivate soil

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 Prepare site for planting
 Complete land preparation operations
Assessment Criteria:
 Requirements for the cultivation method and order are prepared in

accordance with the planting plan.
 OHS hazards are identified, risks assessed and suitable controls
are implemented in accordance with OHS requirements and
procedures.
 Suitable personal protective equipment is selected, used and
maintained according to job/OHS requirements and procedures.
 The environmental implications of cultivating the site are assessed
and, if necessary, responsible action is taken based on company
guidelines and environmental legislations.
 The vehicles and equipment required for site cultivation are
selected according to the planting plan and organization guidelines.
 The vehicles and equipment are serviced, adjusted for the
conditions and worn parts are replaced to ensure reliability during
cultivation following manufacturers’ specifications and operating
manuals.
 All containers, leftover fluids, waste and debris from the
maintenance and servicing work are disposed of safely and
appropriately based on organization guidelines and environmental
legislations.
 All maintenance and servicing is documented according to the
requirements of the organization’s record keeping system.
 Previous crop or land clearance debris is removed or incorporated
according to the organizations’ guidelines.
 The cultivation plan is followed and completed for each site based
on the pulverizing, plowing, and harrowing recommendation.
 OHS hazards are identified, risks assessed and suitable controls
procedures.
 Suitable personal protective equipment is selected, used and

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 Vehicles and equipment are operated properly to suit the site
conditions per manufacturers’ specifications and operating
manuals.
 The quality of cultivation is maximized by continually checking and
adjusting the vehicles and equipment as necessary according to the
cultivation plan and manufacturers’ specifications and operating
manuals.
 The planting layout and soil profiles are completed as required by
the planting plan.
 Fertilizers, ameliorants, and/or other pre-planting treatments are
applied as required by the planting plan
 Weed and pest control measures are taken as required by the
planting plan.
 The environmental implications of site preparation are assessed
 Land preparation is completed according to the planting plan.
 Vehicles and equipment are cleaned and stored to minimize
damage according to manufacturers’ specifications, organizational
procedures and regulations.
 All containers, leftover fluids, waste and debris from the cleaning
and maintenance work are disposed of safely and appropriately
based on organization guidelines and environmental legislations.
 All required records and documentation are completed accurately
and promptly according to organizational system.

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Learning Outcome No. 1 PREPARE FOR CULTIVATION
CONTENTS:
 Planting plan and its interpretation for a range of crops

 OHS hazards and risks, including appropriate controls
 Selection, use and maintenance of PPE
 Environmental implications of site cultivation and legislations
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
1. Requirements for the cultivation method and order are prepared

in accordance with the planting plan.
2. OHS hazards are identified, risks assessed and suitable controls
procedures.
3. Suitable personal protective equipment is selected, used and
4. The environmental implications of cultivating the site are assessed
CONDITIONS: The trainees must be provided with the following:
 Planting plan and its interpretation for a range of crops

 OHS hazards and risks, including appropriate controls
 Selection, use and maintenance of PPE
 Environmental implications of site cultivation and legislations
ASSESSMENT METHODS:

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o Direct observation
o Oral questioning
o Practical demonstration
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
LEARNING ACTIVITIES
1. Read the following topics: Read and study the given
 Information sheet #1.1- information on Soil Analysis and
1“Importance of collecting soil Land Preparation Practices
samples”
 Information sheet #1.1-2 “Land
Preparation Practices”
2. Do Self-check #1.1-1 to 1.1-2 Compare answer to answer key
3. Perform Job sheet #1.1-1 Compare performance to

checklist
After doing all activities of

this LO, you are ready to
proceed to the next LO on
Prepare the Cultivating
Equipment

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LEARNING EXPERIENCES
INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-1

Importance of Collecting Soil Samples
Learning Objectives
After reading this information sheet, you must be able to:
1. Enumerate different soil types;
2. Explain the importance of collecting soil samples;
3. Enumerate and Explain the procedure and guidelines in

collecting soil samples
SOIL TYPES
Soil is the foundation of your garden. Its

quality makes all the difference to how plants
grow.
What is soil?

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Soil is a complex mixture composed of minerals from disintegrated rock,
organic material from decomposed plant and animal matter, water, air and
numerous living organisms. The ideal soil is deep, friable or crumbly, fertile,
well drained and rich in organic matter. Few garden soils fit this description
and many plants are adapted to other soil types.
The main functions of soil are to provide:
 nutrients, water, oxygen

 anchorage for root systems.
Soil is not static. Weather, plants, insects, worms, bacteria, fungi and even
digging changes soil. Adding fertilizers, chemicals and mulches can
completely alter the type of soil.
Soils fall into two major types, 'heavy' or 'light', depending on the amount of
clay or silt (fine particles) or sand (coarse particles) they have.
Clay
Clay is made up of very fine silt particles that pack together closely, thus
hindering the down flow of water and air - both essential for roots. When
clay soils finally get wet, they stay wet and roots can literally drown, as
water remains in the tiny spaces between particles. Clay soils are physically
heavy and they are hard to dig because they're sticky when wet and set hard
when dry.
Sand
Sandy soils are 'light' and much easier to dig, wet or dry. With a greater
proportion of large soil particles than clay, sandy soils drain fast - but also
dry out fast, so must be watered more frequently than clay soils. Frequent
watering leaches out the nutrients.
The ideal soil, 'loamy', falls between these two extremes, so you should aim
for that: but first identify the soil you have.
Identifying your soil type

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Just feeling the soil can teach you a lot. Take a handful of topsoil when it is
moist and squeeze it gently to form a lump. Soil with high clay content will
form a tight, sticky ball, while the sandy type falls apart readily. Soil of good,
friable or crumbly texture will hold its shape but break away easily when
further squeezed into a ribbon.
MOIST CLAY SANDY SOIL LOAM SOIL
Source: Gardening: A Commonsense Guide (Murdoch Books)
http://www.bhg.com.au/display.cfm?objectid=7697F8EA-9A1B-44FF-
916D017FED935B8E&navid=B5474007-B3E1-426A-BC3CED41A12C3683
SOIL SAMPLING
Reasons for Soil Testing
Soil testing is the best way to find out how much lime and fertilizer to apply
based on the crop and existing field conditions.
Without soil testing, managing crop nutrients is difficult due to the complex
nature of their interactions with the soil. Acid soils, for example, can limit
root growth and cause certain nutrients to be unavailable for plants. Unless
soil acidity and pH are corrected through liming, applying fertilizer may
cause additional problems rather than enhance yield.

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Soil testing measures the soil’s nutrient-holding capacity and provides a
basis for sound land management decisions. The lime and fertilizer
recommendations given on the soil test report are cost effective and help
optimize crop yield. Following these recommendations also protects the
environment by safeguarding against excess fertilizer application.
Figure 1. Nutrient management is critical for optimum crop production.
Types of Soil Tests
Predictive (or routine) soil tests estimate the nutrient requirements of the
plants to be grown. Samples for this kind of analysis are usually taken
before the growing season. The report provides site-specific lime and
fertilizer recommendations based on soil class, pH, levels of nutrients in the
soil, and crop requirements.
Diagnostic (or problem) soil tests identify nutrient-related problems that

occur during the growing season. They are like predictive soil tests, except
that soluble salt levels are also measured. Test results are reviewed by a
staff agronomist who makes recommendations for adjustments in
fertilization based on site-specific circumstances.
A Strategy for Collecting Samples
Improperly collected soil samples are the weak link in the soil testing
process. For test results to be useful, the sample must accurately reflect the
variability and conditions in the field. A sample from a single spot cannot do
this.

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Before sampling, make a detailed map of your land. For small areas, simply
draw a diagram. For large tracts, aerial photographs may be helpful.
Divide the map into individual sample areas of 20 acres or less. Assign a
short, permanent sample identification name to each area that will help you
remember its location. Keep in mind that the sample ID space on the soil
test box is limited to five characters.
Each sample area should consist of only one general soil type or condition. If
a field varies in slope, color, drainage or texture and if those areas can be
fertilized separately, submit a separate sample for each area (Fig. 2).
If the field being sampled has been divided into sections for various crops,
submit a sample for each section—even if you now plan to grow the same
crop across the entire field. Areas where liming or fertilizing patterns have
differed from the rest of the field should also be sampled separately
Figure 2. Sampling patterns for a field with three distinct soil types.

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When to Collect Samples
Collect and submit samples three to six months before a projected planting
date if you want to be able to base fertilizer plans on a current soil test
report. Most farmers submit samples immediately after fall harvest, making
November through March the laboratory’s busiest season.
To avoid delays, submit samples from April through October, if your

schedule will allow it. In most cases, it is not necessary to take soil samples
every year. In the coastal plain, once every 2 or 3 years is adequate; in the
piedmont and mountains, once every 3 to 4 years will do. An effective
strategy is to sample one-half of your land each year if you live in the coastal
plain and one-third of your land each year if you live in the piedmont or
mountains.
How to Collect Routine Samples
Essential tools for collecting soil samples include a plastic bucket and a
shovel or a soil probe. Do not use brass, bronze or galvanized tools because
they can contaminate samples with metals.
Clean the bucket and tools before collecting samples to prevent small
amounts of lime and fertilizer residue from contaminating the sample and
distorting test results.
The correct depth for a sample depends on the cropping situation (Fig. 3).
For cultivated row crops or vegetable gardens, sample to the depth you
would plow, normally 6–8 inches. This is the zone where lime and fertilizer
are incorporated. For established pasture and turf as well as for established
minimum-tillage or no-till operations, sample to a depth of 4 inches. When
establishing these systems, however, sample to an 8-inch depth.
Collect soil cores with a probe at 15 to 20 random locations across a field

(Fig. 2). Zigzag patterns help ensure that samples accurately reflect overall
field conditions and variability. Although a soil probe is ideal, cores can be
collected with a shovel as follows: remove soil forming a small hole, cut a

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one-inch thick cross-section of soil from the wall of the hole to the proper
sample depth, and carefully place the soil in the bucket.
To ensure a representative sample, avoid taking cores from small areas

where soil conditions differ substantially from those in the rest of the field—
for example, wet spots, severely eroded areas, old building sites, fence rows,
spoil banks, burn-row areas, and old woodpile or fire sites. Also, avoid
fertilizer bands where row crops have been grown. Cores from these spots
can adversely influence soil test results and recommendations.
For each sample, collect and thoroughly mix at least 15 cores in a clean
plastic bucket. Using this mixture, fill a standard soil sample box to the "fill
line."
Provide ALL information requested on the box and the appropriate

information sheet. Use Soil Sample Information (white form AD–1) for routine
samples and Diagnostic Soil Sample Information (orange form AD–2) for
problem samples. Boxes and forms are available from NCDA&CS regional
agronomists, the Agronomic Division in Raleigh, Cooperative Extension
offices and local agribusinesses.
Figure 3. Proper sampling depth varies depending on the kind of crop you
plan to grow.
How to Collect Problem Samples

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When soil samples are being used to identify a potential plant nutrient
problem, a more thorough sampling strategy is needed. Collect topsoil (as
indicated in Fig. 3) as well as subsoil samples 8 to 16 inches deep. Be sure
to keep topsoil and subsoil samples separate and labeled appropriately.
In both instances, follow the guidelines for collecting a representative

sample. Take cores at random locations throughout the problem area even
though it may be relatively small. In addition, collect a representative
sample from normal areas of the same field. By comparing soil test results
from normal and problem areas and from various depths, staff agronomists
will be better equipped to pinpoint the problem and provide
recommendations for corrective action.
How to Package Samples
Use permanent black ink when filling out the information sheet(s) and
labelling soil sample box (es). Use the appropriate sample ID from your
field map (see A Strategy for Collecting Samples). Sample boxes are
easiest to label before they are folded.
Use the standard soil sample boxes provided by the NCDA&CS

Agronomic Division. Do not place soil in plastic bags. Close box flaps
securely to prevent soil from spilling and mixing with that of other samples
during shipment. Do not tape boxes shut. If you take samples from a
quarantined area, call us for special handling instructions.
Complete all appropriate blanks on the information sheet(s) and write

legibly. Be consistent from year to year in how you list your name, farm
name and/or address. List the crops you intend to grow, along with the crop
codes. Homeowners should use codes found under the heading Lawn,
Garden and Ornamentals. Also, check to make sure that the sample ID on
the form corresponds to the one on the soil sample box and on the farm
map.
Prior to placing samples in the shipping container, make certain that a

sample box is present for each line entry on the information sheet.

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Place individual sample boxes upright in a sturdy cardboard container
for shipping. The sample box is not a shipping container! Stack samples no
more than three boxes high. Place a piece of cardboard between layers to
help prevent crushing of the lower boxes. Pack individual sample boxes
firmly in the shipping container. Fill empty space with crumpled newspaper.
Do not put more than 40 samples in a single shipping container.
Place information sheets inside the shipping container with the

samples and keep a copy for your records. It is a good idea to place
information sheets inside a sealed plastic bag to keep them clean and
legible. However, never use a plastic bag to transport and ship samples.
You can fill out information sheets and submit them on-line from the
Division’s Web site at www.ncagr.com/agronomi. If you do this, be sure
to print two copies of your completed information sheet: one to send to the
lab with your soil samples and the other for your records
Seal the shipping container with heavy-duty tape. Write the grower’s
name on the outside of the container. When sending more than one
container, label each one to indicate the total number being sent: for
example, “Box 1 of 3,” “Box 2 of 3,” “Box 3 of 3.” When sending problem
samples, write “Problem Samples” clearly in large red letters on the outside,
top, and sides of the mailing container.
When shipping several types of agronomic samples, package each type

separately. For example, place soil samples in one package, nematode
assay samples in another package, and plant/waste/solution samples in yet
another package. Make sure each package is addressed to the appropriate
laboratory.
Submitting soil samples
 Put samples in sample boxes.

 Use permanent ink to label each sample box and complete the
information sheet. Do not use felt tip pens since most of them do not
contain waterproof ink. Boxes labeled with a pencil can be very
difficult to read if the sample box becomes dirty.

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 List the crop code shown on the back of the information sheet in the
appropriate column.
 Do not put sample in a plastic bag inside the sample box. Results and
recommendations for samples received in plastic bags will be delayed.
 Do not tapes up sample box seams unless the sample is from a
quarantined area.
 Do not place sample boxes inside a plastic bag before shipping.
Moisture in samples may cause boxes to deteriorate.
 Do not put information sheets inside sample boxes. Attach
information sheets to the outside of the shipping box or put them
inside the shipping box next to or on top of the samples.
 Do not use sample boxes as mailing containers.
 Do not send samples in Manila envelopes, padded or non-padded.
Samples should be shipped in a sturdy, corrugated cardboard box.
SELF-CHECK 1.1-1
Test I. Multiple Choice: Choose the best letter that corresponds to the
right answer. Write your answer in a separate
sheet.
1. The following are importance of soil sampling except

a. Nutrient deficiency assessment c. Liming Requirement
b. Harvest Indicator d. Amount of fertilizer required
2. In relation to crop production sandy soils are known to be
a. droughty d. none of the above
b. easy to be cultivated e. all of the above
c. easy to drain
3. Soil texture could be determined by:
a. “feel” method d. none of the above
b. pipette method e. all of the above

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c. hydrometer method
4. Characteristics feel of sand separates when rubbed in between the
finger is
a. coarse d. all of the above
b. smooth e. none of the above
c. sticky when moist
5. The optimum or ideal soil pH for growing of most crops is:
a. pH 6.0 c. pH 7.5
b. pH 6.5
6. One of the causes of soil acidity
a. Soil erosion c. Excessive application of nitrogenous fertilizers
b. Planting acid tolerant crops d. Application of time
7. The soil microbial population is generally highest in the
a. A horizon d. B2 horizon
b. B horizon e. A3 horizon
c. C horizon
8. The ideal depth of collecting soil samples

a. 9-10 cm c. 9 mm
b. 20-30 cm d. 10 km
9. The ideal wide of holes for soil sampling collection
a. 4 m c. 44 mm
b. 4 cm d. 40 dm
10. Of the following steps in soil sampling/collection, which comes first
a. Packaging the samples
b. making a sketch/diagram for soil sampling
c. Clearing the area for weeds and debris
d. digging the soil using auger to collect samples
Test II. True or False. Write T if the Statement is true and F if

otherwise.
1. Soil is the ultimate medium for plant growth and development.

2. An acidic soil is the best growing media for plants.
3. It is fitting to collect soil samples nearby a residential area.
4. Random soil sampling means only part of the farm has collected
samples.
5.

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Test II. Fill in the blanks: Supply the missing term or terms in the
following statement.
1. ___________________________________ measures the soil’s nutrient-holding

capacity and provides a basis for sound land management.
2. _________________ Patterns help ensure that samples accurately reflect
overall field conditions and variability.
3. ____________________________________ estimate the nutrient requirements
of the plants to be grown. Samples for this kind of analysis are usually
taken before the growing season.
4. Collect soil cores/sample spots with a soil probe or soil auger at
________________ random locations across a field.
5. Collect and submit samples ________________ months before a projected
planting date if you want to be able to base fertilizer plans on a current
soil test report.
6. Do not use __________________________________ tools because metals
can contaminate the samples.
7. ___________________ is the best way to find out how much lime and
fertilizers to apply based on the crop and existing field conditions.
8. Improperly collected soil samples are the weak link in the

____________________.
9. ____________________________________ identify nutrient-related problems

that occur during the growing season.
10. The correct depth of collecting soil samples depends on the

____________________.
11. The best time of the day to collect soil samples is

__________________________ or __________________.
12. Place individual samples boxes ________________ in a sturdy cardboard
container for shipping.
13. Seal the shipping container with a _______________________.
14. The lime and fertilizer recommendations given on the soil test report
are cost
effective and help optimized ________________________.

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15. The result of the diagnostic soil test will be reviewed
____________________________________ who makes recommendations for
adjustments in fertilization based on the site-specific.
ANSWER KEY 1.1-1
Test I. Multiple Choice Test II. True or False
1. A 1. True
2. B 2. False
3. C 3. True
4. A 4. True
5. D 5. False
6. A
7. B
8. D
9. E
10. A
Fill in the blanks: Supply the missing term or terms in the following
statement.
1. Predictive or Routine Soil Test estimates the nutrient requirements
of the plants to be grown. Samples for this kind of soil analysis are
usually taken before the growing season.
2. Soil Testing measures the soil’s nutrient-holding capacity and
provides a basis for a sound land management decisions.
3. Collect soil cores/sample spots with a probe or soil auger at 15 to 20
random locations across a field.
4. Zigzag patterns help ensure that samples accurately reflect overall
field conditions and variability.
5. Collect and submit samples 3 to 6 months before projected planting
date if you want to be able to base fertilizer on a current soil test
report.

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6. Do not use brass, bronze or galvanized tools because metals can
contaminate samples.
7. Soil testing is the best way to find out how much lime and fertilizer
to apply based on the crop and existing field conditions.
8. Improperly collected soil samples are the weal link in the soil testing
process.
9. Diagnostic or Problem Soil Test identifies nutrient-related
problems that occur during the growing season.
10. The correct depth of collecting soil samples depends on the
cropping situation.
11. The best time of the day to collect soil samples is early in the
morning or late in the afternoon.
12. Place individual sample boxes upright in a sturdy cardboard
container for shipping.
13. Seal the shipping container with a heavy-duty tape.
14. The lime and fertilizer recommendations given on the soil test are
cost effective and help optimized crop yield.
15. The result of the diagnostic soil test will be reviewed by a staff
agronomist who makes recommendations for adjustments in
fertilization based on site-specific.
JOB SHEET 1.1-1
Job Title: Soil Sampling and Collection
Performance Objectives: At the end of this activity the trainee is

expected to:
1. To demonstrate skills in soil sampling and

collection.
Equipment, Tools and Materials: Field to get soil sample, soil

sampler or auger, plastic bags,
boxes
Precautions:

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1. Be sure to follow workplace procedures
2. Be sure to follow the correct steps in collecting soil
sample, including sealing your collected samples
properly.
3. Wear appropriated protective outfit during the collection
procedure.
Steps/Procedure:
1. In your field /area of the training center or any designated area,

conduct actual soil sampling and collection procedures.
2. Ensure that you read the given information sheets.
3. Conduct the actual job following the procedures given in information

sheet 2.1-1. Take care of your collections because these will be needed
in the succeeding job sheets.
4. Take note of all your observations and experiences; you will find them
most useful when assessment comes.
Criteria Yes No
1. Prepare tools and materials needed.
2. Determine soil sampling pattern.
3. Determine proper depth and width in collecting soil samples.
4. Collect soil samples based on DA standard and procedures.
5. Air dry soil samples properly.
Performance Checklist 2.1-1

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Information Sheet 1.1-2
Land Preparation Practices
1. Land preparation is the process of preparing the soil for planting

aimed at providing good physical, chemical, and biological
conditions which bring about optimum crop growth.
2. The primary purpose of land preparation is to provide a favorable

soil environment for the growth of your rice crop, and facilitate
weed control. Prepare your land so that it has the following
attributes:
 weeds and stalks are thoroughly incorporated with the soil

and decayed;
 the soil is soft, liquid-like, and the field is well leveled; and
 dikes are clean, plastered, and narrow.

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3. A well-prepared land has the following advantages:
 controls weeds and recycle plant nutrients through the

decay of stalks and the incorporation of weeds with the soil;
 providing a soft soil mass for transplanting and a suitable

soil surface for direct seeding;
 creates a hard soil layer which reduces the percolation of

water, thus, controlling the loss of fertilizer through
leaching; and
 allows the through incorporation of basal fertilizer during

last harrowing.
4. Land preparation or tillage may be carried out through the dry

land or wetland methods.

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production
5. In dry land operations, the land is tilled using harrows, chisels, or
stubble much equipment to stir the soil. This exposes the weeds to
the sun which eliminates them.
6. In the wetland method, the field is plowed while wet and harrowed
crosswise and lengthwise until the soil is well puddle or muddy.
Pudding minimizes the loss of water and increase nutrient

retention and availability.
7. Generally, the number of times for plowing, harrowing, and

rotavating your field is not fixed. These depend on the type and
condition of your soil, and on the presence of weeds, stalks or
stubbles, and trash in the field.

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production
8. Prepare your land three weeks before transplanting if your field is
very weedy or has plenty of stubbles. This allows such materials to
decompose.
9. If your field is relatively clean, prepare it two weeks before

transplanting or direct seeding.
10. For good land preparation, follow these basic steps:
 First, repair your dikes to impound water in the field. This is

very important especially in rain fed areas where water is
scarce. In repairing your dikes, cut a furrow next to the levee
and move clockwise around the field. Reverse your direction
and move counter clockwise. A back furrow is created as the
second furrow slice is thrown over the first turning out loose
soil. You can use this soil in plastering the dikes. The
furrows also distribute water more rapidly in the field.

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production
 After repairing your dikes, irrigate the field 3-7 days before
actual land preparation to facilitate plowing. Allow just
enough water to soften the soil and prevent it from sticking
to the plow.
 Plow the field thoroughly at a depth of about 15 cm. This

allows the furrow slice to cover the weeds and stalks for good
incorporation during harrowing. Thorough plowing also
prepares the soil for adequate root growth.
 Begin plowing in a clockwise direction close to the levee.

Then, move in the reverse direction. You may divide the field
so other plows can operate simultaneously. Plow along a
circuitous pattern, rounding all the corners of the field.

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production
 Irrigate the field again after plowing. This hastens the
decomposition of weeds and crop residues that were plowed
under the soil. Keep the field flooded to minimize the loss of
nitrogen emitted by the decomposing materials.
 Harrow the field 3-5 days after plowing. Harrowing puddles

the soil, breaks soil clods, and incorporates weeds and other
crop residues into the soil. Harrow once more after 5-7 days
to fully puddle the soil and make it relatively level. Do this
lengthwise and crosswise.
 Drain all standing water in the field a day after completing

operations. Apply basal fertilizer before final harrowing to
incorporate it thoroughly with the soil. These minimize the
loss of nitrogen into the air. A simple wooden plank can be
used during final leveling operations.

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production
Self Check #. 1.1-2
II. Fill –in the blanks:
1. ___________________ is the process of preparing the soil for planting aimed

at providing good physical, chemical and biological condition which brings
about optimum crop work.
2. The primary purpose of land preparation is to provide a favorable soil

environment and facilitate ________________ control.
3. Prepare the land so that ___________________ are thoroughly incorporated

with the soil and decayed.
4. Irrigate the field __________________ days before actual land preparation to

facilitate plowing.
5. Plow the field thoroughly at a depth of ________________ cm. to allow

furrow slice to cover the weeds
6. Keep the field flooded to minimize the loss of ______________ emitted by

the decomposing materials.
7. Harrow the field __________ days after plowing.
8. Harrow once more after ______________ days to fully puddle the soil.
9. _______________ puddles the soil, breaks soil clods and incorporate weeds
into the soil.
10. Apply ____________ before final harrowing to incorporate it thoroughly

with the soil.

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Answer Key No. 2-1
1. Land Preparation
2. Weed
3. Weeds and Stalks
4. 3-7 days
5. 15 cm
6. Nitrogen
7. 3-5 days
8. 5-7 days
9. Harrowing
10. Basal Fertilizer

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Prepare Land For Agricultural Crops Production

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Competency- Based Learning Material

Technical Education and Skills Development

Camiguin Polytechnic State College

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

This module covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to

In this module you are required to go through a series of learning activities

 Read information Sheets and complete self checks. Suggested

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

No. Unit of Competency Module Title Code

Prepare land for Preparing land AGR611310

Implement a post-harvest Implementing a post- AGR611311

Implement a plant nutrition Implementing a plant AGR611312

Preparing and AGR611314

Saving, preparing AGR611317

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

HOW TO USE THIS COMPETENCY –BASED MATERIAL …………….

LIST OF COMPETENCIES …………………….

TABLE OF CONTENTS ……………..

LEARNING OUTCOME # 1 – Prepare for Cultivation

LEARNING EXPERIENCES ……….

INFORMATION SHEET 1 Importance of Soil Sampling

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

QUALIFICATION : Agricultural Crops Production NC III

At the end of this module you will be able to:

 Prepare for cultivation

 Prepare the cultivating equipment

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

 Complete land preparation operations

 Requirements for the cultivation method and order are prepared in

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

 Planting plan and its interpretation for a range of crops

1. Requirements for the cultivation method and order are prepared

CONDITIONS: The trainees must be provided with the following:

 Planting plan and its interpretation for a range of crops

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

3. Perform Job sheet #1.1-1 Compare performance to

After doing all activities of

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

INFORMATION SHEET 1.1-1

After reading this information sheet, you must be able to:

1. Enumerate different soil types;

2. Explain the importance of collecting soil samples;

3. Enumerate and Explain the procedure and guidelines in

Soil is the foundation of your garden. Its

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

The main functions of soil are to provide:

 nutrients, water, oxygen

Identifying your soil type

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

MOIST CLAY SANDY SOIL LOAM SOIL

Source: Gardening: A Commonsense Guide (Murdoch Books)

Reasons for Soil Testing

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

Figure 1. Nutrient management is critical for optimum crop production.

Types of Soil Tests

Diagnostic (or problem) soil tests identify nutrient-related problems that

A Strategy for Collecting Samples

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

CBLMs in Agricultural Date Developed: Document No.

To avoid delays, submit samples from April through October, if your

How to Collect Routine Samples