Philippine E-Journals

Productivity and Profitability of Sericulture in Mulberries Grown in Organic and Conventional Farming Practices in La Union, Philippines

Mabel M. Caccam | Milagros S. Nillo | Josephine A. Guiner | Patricia M. Barcelo

 

Abstract:

To improve farm productivity and income of sericulture farmers in Region I due to low soil fertility and cropping intensity and limited water supply, two farming system practices (organic and conventional) were established in the experimental farm of the DMMMSU- SRDI from June 2013 to May, 2014. It aimed to assess the quantity and quality of mulberry leaves, cocoons, raw silk and silk fabrics and to determine the profitability of two practices. T-test of significance was used to analyze data. Cost returns were estimated. Mulberries grown in organic farming practices had longer shoots, heavier mulberry leaf yield and above ground biomass yield per plant than in conventional practices. Silkworm growth, yield and cocoon quality of silkworm fed with leaves grown in both practices were comparable from each other. Raw silk quality and fabric quality were comparable in both practices. The use of organic farming practices (intercropping corn-peanut) in sericulture could be an alternative to mulberry production due to more diverse activities and products that resulted to more products generated, higher income and return on investment (combined incomes). With more activities, more labor man days are generated. The practices such as mulching, organic fertilization, encouraged waste recycling thus reducing waste build up.