Division of Misamis Oriental

Jasaan Distict
JASAAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
Jasaan, Misamis Oriental

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fish Guts with

Molasses as a Fertilizer for Leafy Vegetables in
Terms of Length
Basadre, Eddie Boy E.
Cabingas, Maria Alexandra J.
Cavan, Aries Vincent A.
Colalo, Abdul Hakhem A.
Ellevera, John Robert I.
Lindongan, Laurence I.
Manreal, Sohpia Mae C.
Pielago, Joepet Genes Z.

Scientific Paper Information

Performed: (March 11, 2024)
Submitted: (May 10, 2024)
Abstract

The fishing industry generates substantial waste from fish markets and processing

activities, often diverted into fish meals. This study explores an alternative approach, utilizing

fish guts combined with molasses as a natural fertilizer for agricultural products. The

researcher investigated the effectiveness of this mixture on leafy vegetables, focusing on

optimal ratios based on pH levels. However, plant growth varied among species, with Pechay

(Brassica rapa), Alugbati (Basella alba), and Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) showing

positive responses, while Scallion (Allium fistulosum) exhibited slower growth rates. The

absence of harmful effects on any plant species suggests consistent fertilizer effectiveness

across all tested crops. These findings emphasize the importance of considering fertilizer

composition and plant species when implementing alternative fertilizers in agricultural

practices.

Keywords: fish waste, organic fertilizer, molasses, sustainable agriculture, leafy vegetables,

pH fermentation, plant growth effectiveness.

Introduction

The increasing demand for fish has led to a rise in fish production, resulting in a

corresponding increase in fish waste. The management of fish waste is a significant concern

for both the economy and the environment. Approximately 30-70% of the fish waste is

generated from the consumed fish, and the fishery industry is economically important in

many countries, including China, India, Spain, the US, Canada, and Norway also in

Philippines. Fish waste is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium,

making it a potential substitute for synthetic fertilizers. Moreover, the addition of molasses, a
natural sweetener, has been shown to enhance the decomposition process and increase the

availability of nutrients to plants.

Statement of the Problem

The use of fish waste as a fertilizer is not yet widespread, and most commercial

fertilizers with molasses solutions are not affordable to consumers with limited financial

support. Pechay is an essential component of a healthy diet and is widely consumed globally.

However, production is often dependent on synthetic fertilizers, which can lead to

environmental degradation and health risks. Therefore, exploring alternative fertilizers that

can promote the growth and productivity of leafy vegetables while minimizing environmental

impacts is crucial.

This research will investigate the impact of fish guts with molasses on the growth rate

of pechay plant compared to the unfertilized leafy vegetables, the optimal pH range for fish

guts with molasses is to be considered suitable as a fertilizer, and the response of various

leafy vegetable species, including Alugbati, Scallion, and Chinese Kangkong, to the

application of fish guts with molasses as a fertilizer.

By exploring the use of fish guts with molasses as a natural fertilizer for leafy

vegetables, this study has the potential to address this challenge. The research questions of

this study are:

 Is there a significant difference in the growth rate between pechay plants that are

unfertilized and those fertilized with fish guts and molasses?

 What is the optimal pH range for fish guts with molasses to be considered suitable as

a fertilizer?
  How do various leafy vegetable species, including Alugbati, Scallion, and Chinese

Kangkong, respond to the application of fish guts with molasses as a fertilizer,

particularly in terms of growth and overall health?

Significance

These findings will contribute to the development of sustainable and environmentally

friendly agricultural practices, promoting a more circular economy in the fishing industry.

The successful implementation of this fertilizer combination in the production of leafy

vegetables will provide a cost-effective and environmentally responsible alternative to

synthetic fertilizers, ultimately benefiting consumers, producers, and the environment.

Variables

Independent Variable:

Application of Fish Guts with Molasses as Fertilizer (presence or absence)

Dependent Variables:

Growth Rate of Pechay (Brassica rapa), Alugbati (Basella alba), Scallion (Allium

fistulosum), and Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) (measured in height or length over

time)
Based on the questions, the hypothesis for this study as follows:

Pechay

Null Hypothesis (H0)

There is no significant difference in the growth rate of Pechay (Brassica rapa) plants

between those fertilized with fish guts and molasses and those left unfertilized over the

observation period.

Alternative Hypothesis (H1)

The growth rate of Pechay (Brassica rapa) plants fertilized with fish guts and

molasses is significantly higher than that of pechay plants left unfertilized over the

observation period.

Alugbati

Null Hypothesis (H0)

There is no significant difference in the growth rate of Alugbati (Basella alba) plants

between those fertilized with fish guts and molasses and those left unfertilized over the

observation period.

Alternative Hypothesis (H1)

The growth rate of Alugbati (Basella alba) plants fertilized with fish guts and molasses is

significantly higher than that of Alugbati plants left unfertilized over the observation period.
Scallion

Null Hypothesis (H0):

There is no significant difference in the growth rate of Scallion (Allium fistulosum)

plants between those fertilized with fish guts and molasses and those left unfertilized over the

observation period.

Alternative Hypothesis (H1):

The growth rate of Scallion (Allium fistulosum) plants fertilized with fish guts and

molasses is significantly higher than that of Scallion plants left unfertilized over the

observation period.

Chinese Kangkong

Null Hypothesis (H0)

There is no significant difference in the growth rate of Chinese Kangkong plants

between those fertilized with fish guts and molasses and those left unfertilized over the

observation period.

Alternative Hypothesis (H1)

The growth rate of Chinese Kangkong plants fertilized with fish guts and molasses is

significantly higher than that of Chinese Kangkong plants left unfertilized over the

observation period.
Review of Related Literature

In order to increase crop yield and soil fertility without having the negative

environmental effects that come with synthetic fertilizers, modern agricultural practices have

come to depend more and more on sustainable methods. A viable substitute is to use by-

products from different industries, like molasses from the production of sugar and fish guts

from the fishing sector. This review of the literature focuses on the functions and advantages

of fish guts, molasses, and water in the development of successful organic fertilizers.

Fish Guts and Molasses in Organic Fertilizer Production

In recent years, exploring sustainable alternatives to conventional agricultural

practices has garnered increasing attention worldwide. Among these alternatives is the

utilization of organic waste materials such as fish guts and molasses to produce organic

fertilizers through fermentation processes. Fish guts, a byproduct of the fish processing

industry, contain valuable organic matter rich in proteins, lipids, and essential nutrients (Neis

et al., 2016). Similarly, molasses, a byproduct of sugar production, serves as a source of

fermentable sugars and micronutrients crucial for microbial growth and metabolism (Da Silva

et al., 2018). By combining fish guts and molasses and subjecting them to controlled

fermentation, it is possible to convert these waste materials into nutrient-rich fertilizers, thus

providing a sustainable solution for both waste management and agricultural soil

improvement.

Fish Guts in Organic Fertilizer

 Three elements that are vital for plant growth—nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and

calcium (Ca)—are abundant in fish guts. These nutrients are released into the soil by the

breakdown of fish guts, where plants can access them. Fish waste can greatly increase the

nutrient content of soil by being added to compost mixes or applied directly as manure, as

described by Jaies et al. (2023). Fish waste contains organic matter that strengthens soil

structure, increases water retention, and promotes the growth of good microbes that are

necessary for organic farming methods.

Molasses as a Soil Enhancer

In the process of making organic fertilizer, molasses has two purposes: it acts as a

nutrient source and a microbial stimulant. According to Adis et al. (2023), the high

carbohydrate content of molasses fuels soil microbiota, speeding up the breakdown of organic

matter. Humus, an essential ingredient that promotes nutrient retention and stable soil

structure, is added to the soil through this process. Moreover, molasses enriches the soil with

potassium and trace elements, increasing its ability to sustain a variety of plant life.

Water's Role in Fertilizer Fermentation

For organic fertilizers to ferment, water is a necessary ingredient. It functions as a

solvent to facilitate the biochemical processes that reduce complex organic materials into

simpler forms that can be assimilated by plants. To ensure a successful and efficient

conversion, Adis et al. (2023) emphasize the significance of maintaining proper moisture

levels during the fermentation of fish waste and molasses. Maintaining the right balance of

moisture is essential to avoid anaerobic conditions, which can cause bad smells and lower

fertilizer quality.
Key Factors in the Fermentation Process:

The fermentation process of fish guts and molasses involves the activity of diverse

microbial communities, including bacteria, yeast, and fungi. These microorganisms

metabolize the organic matter present in fish guts and molasses, breaking it down into

bioavailable nutrients and beneficial compounds for plant uptake (Nikolopoulou et al., 2021).

Fermentation conditions such as pH, temperature, and oxygen availability play a critical role

in shaping microbial activity and fermentation outcomes (Yan et al., 2018). Optimizing these

parameters can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of organic fertilizer production from

fish guts and molasses, ultimately leading to improved soil fertility and crop yields.

Potential Benefits and Future Directions:

Studies have indicated that fish guts and molasses fertilizer can enhance soil fertility,

promote microbial activity, and improve plant growth, thus offering a sustainable alternative

to conventional fertilizers (Kavitha et al., 2019). However, several challenges remain to be

addressed, including variability in nutrient content, potential odor issues during fermentation,

and the need for standardized production processes. Future research efforts should focus on

optimizing fermentation techniques, exploring novel microbial inoculants, and assessing the

long-term effects of fish guts and molasses fertilizer on soil health and crop productivity

(Maktabi et al., 2019). By addressing these challenges and advancing our understanding of

organic fertilizer production, The researcher can unlock the full potential of fish guts and

molasses as valuable resources for sustainable agriculture.

Methodology

A. Research Design

This research was conducted to be able to evaluate the effectiveness of fish guts with

molasses as a fertilizer for leafy vegetables. The researcher followed a quantitative approach

since it will tell us how many, how much, or how often in calculations, with an experimental

research method since the experimental method gives researchers a high level of control since

they choose the independent variables and dependent variables, how to measure them, and

the procedure of the study. This means the studies are likely to be high in validity.

B. Materials and Ingredients

Ingredients/materials for making fertilizer:

Ingredients: Materials:

5 liters of water 25 liters of container

3kg/s of fish guts Plastic cover

1kg/s of molasses

Materials for preparing the plantation area:

Materials:

Shovel Hoe
Containers Digging bar

C. General Procedure

Procedure for making fertilizer:

The researchers formulated a fertilizer mixture, the researchers started to clean and

wash the fish guts, placed them in a clean place, and waited a few minutes to dry. Afterward,

the researcher prepared the container for the mixture to begin. The researcher added one liter

of water and one kilogram of molasses to the empty container along with three kilograms of

fish guts with a mixture of 3:1 ratio, indicating that three kilograms of fish guts and one

kilogram of molasses, sealed with plastic into the container for 10 days of fermentation, with

a target amount of 5 to 7 Ph level.

Procedure for preparing the area for plantation:

The researcher then prepares the place for planting and starts plotting the ground,

measuring 132 inches in length, 25 inches in width, and 3,300 inches in area, with four

different plots with a distance of 10 inches. The researchers next begin planting the seeds;

only one type of seed needs to be planted in each area, the distance of the plants is different

for Pechay (Brassica rapa) six (6) by four (4) inches, the Alugbati (Basella alba) eight (8) by

six (6) inches, the Scallion (Allium fistulosum) two (2) by four (4) inches, and for Chinese

Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) one (1) by four (4) inches.

D. Experimental Analysis

Table 1. The table below presents the setup of Fish Guts with Molasses mixture.

Water 3 Liters

Ratio 3:1

Fish Guts 3/4 Kilogram

Molasses 1/4 Kilogram

Table 2. The table below presents the Application of the Fertilizer/ Treatment Group,
Irrigation, and the location of all the Crop species.

Crop Species Pechay Scallion Chinese Alugbati

Kangkong

Application of 5 pumps/ every 6 5 pumps/ every 6 5 pumps/ every 6 5 pumps/ every 6

Fertilizer/ PM PM PM PM
Treatment Group

Irrigation 20 - 30 minutes/ 20 - 30 minutes/ 20 - 30 minutes/ 20 - 30 minutes/

Morning and Morning and Morning and Morning and
Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon

Location Researcher's Researcher's Researcher's Researcher's

House House House House

Controlled Group:

This group does not contain fertilizer, the researchers spend 10 to 20 minutes every

morning and afternoon watering.

Treatment Group:

This group will contain fertilizer, the fertilizer will be applied every morning, the

researcher also spend 10 to 20 minutes every morning and afternoon watering,

E. Procedure & Instrument

Data Gathering

The researcher followed an observational research instrument, through this the plants

will be observed, and every three days, the observation measures the plant growth if the

vegetables are growing vigorously, with healthy leaves, stems, and roots. And nutrient

deficiencies to monitor for any signs of nutrient deficiencies such as yellowing leaves,

stunted growth, or poor development. Also to Examine the plant growth-promoting effects of

fish guts and molasses fertilizer on different crop species.

F. Statistical Tools for Data Analysis

Every crop species such as Pechay (Brassica rapa), Alugbati (Basella alba), Scallion

(Allium fistulosum), and Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) was calculated separately,

by the length of all the plants. The researcher used a statistical tool called one-way ANOVA

to determine if there is a significant difference between applying fertilizers or without

fertilizer to the plant. The researchers chose a significance value of 0.05 to determine whether

there was a significant difference between the two groups.

Results and Discussion

15 Days Data Analysis of Various Crop Species

The tables below show the results from the data the Researchers gathered and the

statistics of the test the Researchers used.

Table 3. Growth Rate of Alugbati (Basella alba) within 15 Days.

Plants Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15

Fetilized Alugbati 6.27 7.42 7.99 8.78 9.28

Unfertilized Alugbati 5.89 7.26 7.77 8.53 9.21

Figure 1. Presents the Comparison Growth Rate of Alugbati (Basella alba) of Fertilized and
Unfertilized in 15 Days.

Alugbati Growth Rate

10
8
6
4
2
0
Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15

Fetilized Alugbati Unfertilized Alugbati

In the data on the growth rate of Alugbati (Basella alba), The researcher has observed

that on the 3rd day, the fertilized Alugbati (Basella alba) with a measurement of 6.27 inches

had a slightly higher growth rate than the unfertilized Alugbati (Basella alba) 5.89 inches by

0.38 inches. On the 6th day, the growth rates of the fertilized Alugbati (Basella alba) with a

measurement of 7.42 inches and unfertilized Alugbati (Basella alba) with a measurement of
7.26 inches were slightly closer, with a difference of only 0.16 inches. On the 9th day, the

growth rates of the fertilized Alugbati (Basella alba) with a measurement of 7. 99 inches and

the unfertilized Alugbati (Basella alba) with a measurement of 7.77 inches were slightly

closer to those on the day 6th, with a difference of 0.22 inches. On the 12th day, the fertilized

Alugbati (Basella alba) has a measurement of 8.78 inches, while the unfertilized Alugbati

(Basella alba) is 8.53 inches, indicating a slight difference of 0.25 inches. On the last day, the

growth rates of the fertilized with the measurement of 9.28 inches and unfertilized Alugbati

(Basella alba) with the measurement of 9.21 inches and they are close with a difference of

only 0.7 inches.

Table 4. Growth Rate of Scallion within 15 Days.

Plants Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15

Fertilized Scallion 7.9 8.87 9.06 9.41 10.04

Unfertilized Scallion 7.84 8.73 9.24 9.64 10.39

Figure 1. Presents the Comparison Growth Rate of Scallion (Allium fistulosum) of Fertilized
and Unfertilized in 15 Days.

Scallion Growth Rate

12

10

0
Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15

Fetilized Scallion Unfertilized Scallion

 The comparison table analyzing the growth rates of fertilized and unfertilized,

Scallion (Allium fistulosum) from day 3 to day 15 reveals interesting findings. Initially, both

types showed similar growth on day 3, with the fertilized, Scallion (Allium fistulosum) at 7.9

inches and the unfertilized Scallion at 7.83 inches. However, by day 6, a slight difference

emerged, with the fertilized, Scallion (Allium fistulosum) growing to 8.87 inches compared

to 8.73 inches for the unfertilized, Scallion (Allium fistulosum). Surprisingly, on day 9, the

fertilized, Scallion (Allium fistulosum) grew less at 9.06 inches while the unfertilized one

reached 9.24 inches. This pattern continued on day 12, with the fertilized, Scallion (Allium

fistulosum) at 9.41 inches and the unfertilized, Scallion (Allium fistulosum) staying

consistent at 9.64 inches. By day 15, the fertilized Scallion (Allium fistulosum) grew to 10.04

inches, but the unfertilized Scallion (Allium fistulosum) surpassed it at 10.39 inches. These

results suggest that using fish guts with molasses fertilizer did not notably affect the

Scallion’s (Allium fistulosum) growth compared to those not exposed to this fertilizer.

Table 5. Growth Rate of Alugbati within 15 Days.

Number of days Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15

Fertilized Pechay 2.18 2.97 3.25 4.53 5.41

Unfertilized Pechay 1.54 1.83 2.08 2.97 3.43

Figure 3. Presents the Comparison Growth Pechay (Brassica rapa) of Pechay length and it
area of leaf of Fertilized and Unfertilized in 15 Days.

Pechay Growth Rate

6

1
 0
Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15
Fetilized Pechay Unfetilized Pechay

The comparison table outlining the growth rates of fertilized and unfertilized Pechay

(Brassica rapa) from day 3 to day 15 shows a consistent and notable advantage for the

fertilized Pechay (Brassica rapa). Initially, on day 3, the fertilized Pechay (Brassica rapa) had

a growth rate of 2.18 inches, whereas the unfertilized Pechay (Brassica rapa) grew at a rate

of 1.54 inches. This difference in growth rates continued to increase over the following days:

by day 6, the fertilized Pechay (Brassica rapa) grew by 2.97 inches, while the unfertilized

Pechay (Brassica rapa) grew by 1.83 inches; on day 9, the rates were 3.25 inches and 2.08

inches, respectively; on day 12, they were 4.53 inches and 2.97 inches; and by day 15, the

fertilized Pechay (Brassica rapa) achieved a growth rate of 5.41 inches, compared to the

unfertilized Pechay’s (Brassica rapa) growth rate of 3.43 inches. These consistent and

widening differences in growth rates demonstrate the significant positive impact of using fish

guts with molasses fertilizer on Pechay (Brassica rapa) growth, highlighting a promising

approach for improving crop productivity through a straightforward application method.

Table 6. Growth Rate of Chinese Kangkong within 15 Days.

Number of days Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15

Fetilized Chinese kangkong 3.91 5.64 5.84 6.91 7.54

Unfetilized Chinese kangkong 4.23 5.59 5.66 6.56 7.09

Figure 4. Presents the Comparison Growth Rate of Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica)
length and area of leaf of Fertilized and Unfertilized in 15 Days.

Chinese Kangkong Growth Rate

8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
Day 3 Day 6 Day 9 Day 12 Day 15

Fetilized Chinese kangkong Unfetilized Chinese kangkong

From what the Researchers observed, the growth of Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea

aquatica) in the first three days is the Unfertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) is

more taller than the Fertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) by 0.32 inches. After
that, the Researchers checked again the growth of the Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica)

after another three days and the Fertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) was taller

than Unfertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) by 0.5 inches. Then, on the ninth

day, the growth of Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) was less growth than in the last six

days. And on day twelve the Researchers can clearly see that the Fertilized Chinese

Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) is taller than the Unfertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea

aquatica) by 0.35 inches. Lastly, on day fifteen the Fertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea

aquatica) is higher than the -Unfertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) 0.45 inches.

Statistical Analysis

Pechay (Brassica rapa)

Anova: Single Factor

SUMMARY

Varianc
Groups Count Sum Average e

Fertilized 18.3
Pechay 5 4 3.668 1.66342

Unfertilized 11.8
Pechay 5 5 2.37 0.63705

ANOVA

Source of
Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit

Between 3.66186 0.09201 5.31765

Groups 4.21201 1 4.21201 9 9 5
 1.15023
Within Groups 9.20188 8 5

13.4138
Total 9 9

Table 7: ANOVA Table for Fertilized and Unfertilized Pechay (Brassica rapa):

The analysis explores the growth rate of Pechay (Brassica rapa)plants with and

without fertilization using fish guts and molasses mixture. The null hypothesis (Ho) states

that there is no significant difference in growth rate between fertilized and unfertilized

Pechay (Brassica rapa) plants, while the alternative hypothesis (H1) suggests fertilized

Pechay (Brassica rapa) plants exhibit a notably higher growth rate. Over a 15-day observation

period, the average growth rate of fertilized Pechay (Brassica rapa) plants (3.668) appears

higher than unfertilized plants (2.37). However, an ANOVA test, revealing an F-value of

3.661869 and a p-value of 0.092019, reveals insufficient evidence to reject the null

hypothesis. While the average growth rate seems higher for fertilized pechay, the within-

group variability and the small sample size of 5 plants per group may have influenced the

results' statistical significance.

Alugbati (Basella alba)

Anova: Single Factor

SUMMARY

Varianc
Groups Count Sum Average e

39.7
Fertilized 5 4 7.948 1.39067
 38.6
Unfertilized 5 6 7.732 1.60962

ANOVA

Source of
Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit

Between 0.07775 0.78743 5.31765

Groups 0.11664 1 0.11664 2 9 5

Within 12.0011 1.50014

Groups 6 8 5

Total 12.1178 9

Table 8: ANOVA Table for Fertilized and Unfertilized Alugbati (Basella alba):

The analysis investigates the growth rate of Alugbati (Basella alba)plants with and

without fertilization using fish guts and molasses. The null hypothesis (Ho) states no

significant difference in growth rate between fertilized and unfertilized Alugbati (Basella

alba) plants, while the alternative hypothesis (H1) suggests fertilized Alugbati (Basella alba)

plants exhibit a notably higher growth rate. Over a 15-day observation period, the average

growth rate of fertilized Alugbati (Basella alba) plants (7.948) seems slightly higher than

unfertilized plants (7.732). However, an ANOVA test reveals an F-value of 0.077752 and a p-

value of 0.787439, indicating insufficient evidence to reject the null hypothesis. Despite the

marginally higher average growth rate for fertilized Alugbati (Basella alba), the within-group

variability and the small sample size of 5 plants per group may have influenced the statistical

significance of the results.

Scallion (Allium fistulosum)

 Anova: Single Factor

SUMMARY

Groups Count Sum Average Variance

Fertilized
Scallion 5 45.28 9.056 0.61613

Unfertilized
Scallion 5 45.84 9.168 0.91917

ANOVA

Source of
Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit

Between Groups 0.03136 1 0.03136 0.040852 0.844869 5.317655

Within Groups 6.1412 8 0.76765

Total 6.17256 9

Table 9: ANOVA Table for Fertilized and Unfertilized Scallion (Allium fistulosum)

The analysis explores the growth rate of Scallion (Allium fistulosum) plants with and

without fertilization using fish guts and molasses. The null hypothesis (Ho) suggests no

significant difference in growth rate between fertilized and unfertilized Scallion (Allium

fistulosum) plants, while the alternative hypothesis (H1) proposes a notably higher growth

rate for fertilized plants. Over a 15-day observation period, the average growth rate of

fertilized Scallion (Allium fistulosum) plants (9.056) appears slightly lower than unfertilized

plants (9.168). However, an ANOVA test reveals an F-value of 0.040852 and a p-value of

0.844869, indicating insufficient evidence to reject the null hypothesis. Despite the

marginally lower average growth rate for fertilized Scallion (Allium fistulosum), the within-
group variability and the small sample size of 5 plants per group may have influenced the

statistical significance of the results.

Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica)

Anova: Single Factor

SUMMARY

Averag Varianc
Groups Count Sum e e

Fetilized Chinese 29.8

kangkong 5 4 5.968 1.92947

Unfetilized Chinese 29.1

kangkong 5 3 5.826 1.19173

ANOVA

Source of Variation SS df MS F P-value F crit

0.0504 0.03230 0.86183 5.31765

Between Groups 0.05041 1 1 2 6 5

Within Groups 12.4848 8 1.5606

12.5352
Total 1 9

Table 10: ANOVA Table for Fertilized and Unfertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea
aquatica):

The analysis investigates the growth rate of Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica)

plants with and without fertilization using fish guts and molasses. The null hypothesis (Ho)

posits no significant difference in growth rate between fertilized and unfertilized Chinese

Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) plants, while the alternative hypothesis (H1) suggests
fertilized plants exhibit a notably higher growth rate. Over a 15-day observation period, the

average growth rate of fertilized Chinese Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) plants (5.968)

appears slightly higher than unfertilized plants (5.826). However, an ANOVA test reveals an

F-value of 0.032302 and a p-value of 0.861836, indicating insufficient evidence to reject the

null hypothesis. Despite the marginally higher average growth rate for fertilized Chinese

Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica), the within-group variability and the small sample size of 5

plants per group may have influenced the statistical significance of the results.

Conclusion

The conducted analyses on the growth rates of Pechay, Alugbati, Scallion, and

Chinese Kangkong plants, both with and without the application of a fish guts and molasses

mixture as fertilizer, reveal intriguing yet statistically inconclusive results. Across each of the

plant categories, fertilized groups demonstrated varying degrees of enhanced average growth

rates when compared to their unfertilized counterparts within a 15-day observation period.

Specifically, fertilized Pechay plants showed an average growth rate higher than that of

unfertilized plants, Alugbati and Chinese Kangkong exhibited marginal increases in growth,

and Scallion plants interestingly showed a slight decrease.

Despite these observations, the statistical analysis employing the ANOVA test across

all plant groups did not provide sufficient evidence to significantly reject the null hypothesis,

which stated that there is no noteworthy difference in growth rates between fertilized and

unfertilized plants. The F-values and p-values obtained from the ANOVA test underscored the

lack of statistical significance in the observed differences. This outcome suggests that while

there might be a visual trend towards improved growth with fertilization, the variations

within the groups and the limited sample size of 5 plants per group constrain the reliability of
these observations. The findings imply that while the use of a fish guts and molasses mixture

as fertilizer may have potential benefits for the growth rate of certain plants, the evidence

from this study is not robust enough to conclusively affirm its effectiveness.

The close margins of growth rate differences and the high p-values highlight the need

for further research with larger sample sizes and possibly longer observation periods to

accurately determine the impact of this organic fertilizer on plant growth rates. This study

serves as a preliminary exploration into organic fertilization methods, indicating areas for

future investigations to build upon.

Recommendations

Following the study's conclusions regarding the efficacy of fish guts mixed with

molasses as a fertilizer for leafy vegetables, the following important recommendations are

made, emphasizing important elements like long-term effects, resource constraints, weather,

ratio optimization, and the need to expand research to include more vegetable species:

Long–Term Effect of Fertilizer

Long-term studies on the continued use of fish guts and molasses fertilizer are crucial

to guaranteeing sustainable agricultural practices. The long-term impacts on soil health,

including nutrient levels, microbial balance, and possible build-up of any unfavorable

elements, should be assessed by these investigations. By being aware of these effects, usage

practices can be modified to stop soil deterioration and encourage long-term soil fertility.

Resource Limitation Considerations

Since molasses and fish waste are byproducts of particular industries, their availability

might be restricted or vary depending on how well the industry performs and changes in
regulations. Research ought to evaluate the viability of using these materials as reliable

fertilizer sources, particularly in areas that rely significantly on imports. To guarantee that

fertilizer production can continue uninterrupted, other local resources should be found.

Weather Condition Adaptations

When the weather changes, so can the efficacy of fertilizers made of molasses and

fish guts. The effectiveness of these fertilizers in various climatic circumstances, such as high

rainfall, drought, and fluctuating temperatures, should be the subject of research. By doing so,

guidelines for modifying fertilizer application in response to weather forecasts can be

developed, resulting in optimal plant health and yield regardless of climate variations.

Optimization of Fertilizer Ratios

To find the ideal ratios of fish guts to molasses that work best in a variety of soil types

and environmental circumstances, more experimental research is required. By ensuring that

nutrients are released in amounts that match the unique requirements of the plants, this

optimization will help maximize the fertilizer's effectiveness and promote growth without

wasting any resources.

Expansion to More Vegetable Species

Although the initial research has concentrated on particular leafy vegetable varieties,

expanding the study to encompass a larger variety of vegetable species will aid in

determining the fertilizer's wider applicability. Given that different vegetables have different

nutrient requirements and growth responses, a more thorough understanding of the

applicability and constraints of fish guts and molasses fertilizer can be obtained by

researching a wide range of species.

Acknowledgments

The researchers express their acknowledgment and deep gratitude to their advisor,

Ma'am Joan Pamisa, for her unwavering guidance and invaluable insight throughout the

research process. They also acknowledge Sir Ferdinand Cabeguin, whose invaluable insights,

despite not being the researchers' advisor but a teacher of another field, greatly contributed to

the development of a strong research topic. Special thanks and acknowledgment are extended

to Sir Jessie Cris Abroguena for his mentorship and guidance, which were instrumental in

shaping the research. The researchers also acknowledge their grateful families for their

constant support and encouragement. Additionally, the researchers would like to acknowledge

their Grade 11 juniors, Sophia Mae Manreal and Eddie Boy Basadre, whose assistance

despite being new to research, significantly contributed to the project's success. Moreover, the

researchers express their appreciation and acknowledgment to the panelists who will provide

valuable insights after this research, enriching the study with diverse perspectives and

expertise.

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