UC8 - Produce Organic Fertilizer

COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIAL
Agriculture and Fishery Sector
Organic Agriculture Production NC II
Produce Organic Fertilizer
Producing Organic Fertilizer
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KORPHIL-RMO2-2392 (ACP 1)
Issued by:
Agriculture
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Production NC II Developed by: KORPHIL Page 0 of 80
Producing Organic Engr. Jeric F. Bilita
Farm Products Engr. Jeny E. Buscano Revision #
Engr. Ricky J. Dabalos 01
INSTITUTION:
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

REGIONAL TRAINING CENTER - DAVAO
KOREA-PHILIPPINES VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTER
Buhisan, Tibungco, Davao City
Tel. Nos. 238 – 0007 to 0008, Telefax 238 - 0007
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HOW TO USE THIS COMPETENCY-BASED LEARNING MATERIAL
The unit of competency, “Produce Organic Fertilizer”, is one of the

competencies of Organic Agriculture Production NC II, a course that
comprises the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to produce organic
fertilizer.
The module, produce organic fertilizer, contains training materials

and activity in it includes prepare composting area, prepare raw materials,
carry out composting process and harvest compost.
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 and Task sheet. There will be
an actual interview, written examination, demonstration of practical skills,
and direct observation during Institutional Assessment. Follow and perform
the activities on your own. If you have questions, do not hesitate to ask for
assistance from your facilitator.
Remember to:
 Read and understand all information sheets and complete answer

self-checks. Suggested references are included to supplement the
materials provided in this module.
 Perform the Task Sheets until you are confident that your outputs
conform to the Performance Criteria Checklist that follows the sheets.
 Read and understand the basic process on producing organic

fertilizer.
 Familiarize in the system in preparing organic fertilizer and perform

post-operation activities.
 Submit outputs to your facilitator for evaluation and recording in the

Achievement Chart. Outputs shall serve as your portfolio during the
Institutional Competency Evaluation. When you feel confident that
you have had sufficient practice, ask your trainer to evaluate you. The
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results of your assessment will be recorded in your Achievement Chart
and Progress 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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ORGANIC AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION NC II
COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIALS
List of Competencies
No. Unit of Competency Module Title Code

Common Competencies
1 Apply safety measures in Applying safety measures AGR321201
farm operations in farm operations
2 Use farm tools and Using farm tools and AGR321202

equipment equipment
3 Perform estimation and Performing estimation AGR321203

calculations and calculations
4 Develop and update Developing and updating TRS311201

industry knowledge industry knowledge
5 Perform record keeping Performing record AGR321205

keeping
Core Competencies
1 Raise organic chicken Raising organic chicken AGR612301
2 Produce organic Producing organic AGR611306

vegetables vegetables

fertilizer fertilizer
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concoctions and extracts concoctions and extracts
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MODULE CONTENT
QUALIFICATION TITLE : Organic Agriculture Production

NCII
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : Produce Organic Fertilizer
MODULE TITLE : Producing Organic Fertilizer
MODULE DESCRIPTOR:
This module covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to

produce organic fertilizer. It includes prepare composting area, prepare raw
materials, carry out composting process and harvest compost.
Nominal Duration: 24 hours
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this module, the trainee/student must be able to:

1. Prepare composting area
2. Prepare raw materials
3. Carry out composting process
4. Harvest compost
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COMPETENCY SUMMARY
Qualification Title : Organic Agriculture Production NC II
Unit of Competency : Produce Organic Fertilizer
Module Title : Producing Organic Fertilizer
Introduction
This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to

produce organic fertilizer. It includes prepare composting area, prepare raw
materials, carry out composting process and harvest compost.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this module, you MUST be able to:
1. Prepare composting area

2. Prepare raw materials
3. Carry out composting process
4. Harvest compost
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LEARNING OUTCOME #1. Prepare composting area
CONTENTS:
 Organic Fertilizer
 Using growth enhancers
 Natural organic fertilizers
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
1. Site is selected based on compost fertilizer production requirements.

2. Site lay-out is prepared based on location.
3. Bed is prepared in accordance in accordance with production
requirements.
CONDITIONS:
The student/trainee must be provided with the following:

 Field preparation
 PPE
 Training supplies, tools, materials and equipment
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
 Written examination
 Demonstration / Direct observation of practical skills
 Oral Questioning
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Learning Outcome #1. Prepare composting area
Learning Experiences
Learning Activities Special Instructions

Read information sheet 3.1-1 on This Learning Outcome deals with the
“Organic Fertilizers” development of the Institutional
Answer Self-Check 3.1-1 Competency Evaluation Tool, which
trainers use, in evaluating their trainees
Read information sheet 3.1-2 on after finishing a competency of the
“Using Growth Enhancers” qualification.
Go through the learning activities
outlined for you on the left column to gain
the necessary information or knowledge
Answer Self-Check 3.1-2 before doing the tasks to practice on
Read information sheet 3.1-3 on performing the requirements of the
“Natural Organic Fertilizers” evaluation tool.
The output of this Learning Outcome is a
complete Institutional Competency
Answer Self-Check 3.1-3 Evaluation Package for one Competency
of Organic Agriculture Production NC
II. Your output shall serve as one of your
portfolio for your Institutional
Competency Evaluation for Produce
Organic Fertilizer.
Feel free to show your outputs to your
trainer as you accomplish them for
guidance and evaluation.
After doing all the activities for this LO1,

you are ready to proceed to the next LO2:
Prepare Raw Materials.
Information Sheet 3.1-1

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Organic Fertilizer
Learning Objectives:
After reading this information sheet, you must be able to know how to
establish an organic fertilizer.
Organic fertilizer
Organic fertilizer comes from plants, animals and mined minerals. Any
combination of organic fertilizer will feed soil organisms who produce plant
food in a plant available from. Use powdered, pelleted and tablet fertilizer for
soil application. Use organic liquid fertilizer or water soluble fertilizers via
irrigation or foliar sprays.
Examples of Organic fertilizers are:
 Plant fertilizer – sea kelp (seaweed), alfalfa, meal, corn gluten meal
and cottonseed meal;
 Green manure – living cover crop plants turned into the soil;
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 Natural fertilizer from animals – blood meal, bone meal, fish meal and
composted chicken manure;
 Mined natural fertilizer – limestone, soft rock phosphate and gypsum.
By compost we mean a material completely broken down aerobically and

based upon animal manures and plant residues rather than woodchips.
Raw manures are not a substitute for compost. Raw manure breaks down in
the soil, tying up water, nitrogen and other vital resources in the process. It
often introduces weed seeds and pathogens, loses nutrients as it breaks
down and must be applied at 4-5 times the rate of compost. Raw manures
definitely should not be used right before harvesting a crop.
Theses organic fertilizers are fertilizer compound that contain one or more
kinds of organic matter. The ingredients may be animal or vegetable matter
or a combination of two. It is possible to purchase commercial brands of
organic rich fertilizer as well as prepares organic fertilizer at home by
building a compost heap.
When describing fertilizer, t is important to remember that the working

definition of organic is the same as that applied to organic foods. That is, the
fertilizer is composed of elements that are produced in a completely natural
manner without the aid of any synthetically manufactured components or
additives.
Many different natural elements can go into the creation of organic fertilizer.
Animal manure is a common ingredient in both commercial and home
prepared blends. Rotten produce bone meal and he decomposing plants
removed at the end of the season can also be chopped or ground into the
small particles for inclusion in the fertilizer. Essentially, any matter that is
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of natural origin and subject to decomposition is a good candidate for
inclusion in the product.
Organically prepared fertilizing agents can be used to grow vegetables, raise

flowers and even to produce a lush green lawn. As with any type of fertilizing
product, the organic grass fertilizer is spread evenly across the expanse of
the yard. Often, the fertilization process takes place before the grass seeds
are sown. Once the soil is properly tilled and mixed with the organic lawn
fertilizer, the seeds are distributed and the area is watered. The presence of
the natural materials help the seeds to spout and take root, eventually
producing a beautiful carpet of grass across the lawn.
In like manner organic fertilizer v=can be used in vegetable gardens to

replenish the nutrient content in the soil. This is often done prior to
planning the next round of crops in the garden. Preparing the soil in
advance will provide the ideal setting for the newly planted seed or young
plants to take root and grow rapidly.
Organic fertilizer can be purchased in most farmer’s exchange stores, along

with many home and garden shops. Since the natural fertilizer is usually
sold alongside brands that contain synthetic elements, it is important to
read the contents before making the purchase.
Dry Organic Fertilizers

Dry organic fertilizers can consist of a single material such as rock
phosphate or kelp (a type of nutrient-rich seaweed), or they can be blend of
many ingredients. Almost all organic fertilizers provide a broad array of
nutrients but blends are specially formulated to provide balanced amounts
of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus as well as micronutrients. There are
several commercial blends but you can make your own general-purpose
fertilizer by mixing individual amendments.
Applying Dry Fertilizers
The most common way to apply dry fertilizer is to broadcast it and then hoe
or rake it into the top 4-6 inches of soil. You can add small amounts to
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planting holes or rows as you plant seeds or transplants. Unlike dry
synthetic fertilizers, most organic fertilizers are non-burning and will not
harm delicate seedling roots.
During the growing season, boost plant growth by side-dressing dry

fertilizers in crop rows or around the drip line of trees or shrubs. It is best to
work side-dressing into the top inch of the oil.
Liquid Organic Fertilizers
Use liquid fertilizers to give your plants a light nutrient boost or snack every
month or even every 2 weeks during the growing season. Simply mix the
foliar spray in the tank of a backpack sprayer and spray all your plants at
the same time.
Plants can absorb liquid fertilizers through both their roots and through leaf
pores. Foliar seedling can supply nutrients when they are lacking or
unavailable in the soil or when roots are stressed. It is especially effective for
giving fast-growing plants like vegetables can extra boost during the growing
season. Some foliar fertilizers such as liquid seaweed (kelp) are rich in
micronutrients and growth hormones. These foliar sprays also appear to act
as catalyst, increasing nutrient uptake by plants. Compost tea and seaweed
extract are two common examples of organic foliar fertilizers.
Applying Liquid Fertilizers
With flowering and fruiting plants, foliar sprays are most useful during
critical periods (such as transplanting or during fruit set) or periods of
drought or extreme temperatures. For leaf crops, some suppliers
recommend biweekly spraying.
When using liquid fertilizers, always follow label instructions for proper
dilution and application methods. You can use a surfactant such as coconut
oil or a mild soap (1/4 teaspoon per gallon of spray), to ensure better
coverage of the leaves. Otherwise, the spray may bead up on the foliage and
you would not get maximum benefit. Measure the surfactant carefully; if you
use too much, it may damage your plants. A slightly acid spray mixture is
most effective, so check your spray’s pH. Use small amounts of vinegar to
lower pH and baking soda to raise. Aim for a pH of 6.0-6.5.
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Any sprayer or mister will work, from hand-trigger units to knapsack
sprayers. Set you sprayer to emit as fine a spray as possible. Never use a
sprayer that has been used to apply herbicides.
The best time to spray are early morning and early evening when the liquids
will be absorbed most quickly and will not burn foliage. Choose a day when
no rain is forecast and temperatures are not extreme. Spray until the liquid
drips off the leaves. Concentrate the
Spray on leaf undersides, where leaf pores are more likely to be open. You
can also water in liquid fertilizers around the root zone. A drip irrigation
system can carry liquid fertilizers to your plants. Kelp is a better product for
this used, as fish emulsion can clog the irrigation emitters.
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Self-check 3.1-1
Organic Fertilizer
Instruction:
Write True if the statement is correct, and False if the statement is wrong.
1. The best time to spray are early morning and early evening when the
liquids will be absorbed most quickly and will not burn foliage.
2. The most common way to apply dry fertilizer is to broadcast it and

then hoe or rake it into the top 8-10 inches of soil.
3. Inorganically prepared fertilizing agents can be used to grow

vegetables, raise flowers and even to produce a lush green lawn.
4. Inorganic fertilizer comes from plants, animals and mined minerals.

Any combination of organic fertilizer will feed soil organisms who
produce plant food in a plant available from.
5. By compost we mean a material completely broken down aerobically

and based upon animal manures and plant residues rather than
woodchips.
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Answers 3.1-1
Organic Fertilizer
1. True
2. False
3. False
4. False
5. True
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Reference 3.1-1
Organic Fertilizer
https://www.planetnatural.com/big-stink/
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/gardening/a20705688/organic-
fertilizer/
https://www.pennington.com/all-products/fertilizer/resources/what-is-
organic-fertilizer
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Using Growth Enhancers
use growth enhancers on plants.
Introduction
Growth enhancers are materials that help plants absorb nutrients more
effectively from the soil. The most common growth enhancer is kelp (a type
of seaweed), which has been used for by farmers for centuries.
Kelp is sold as a dried meal or as an extract of the meal in liquid or

powdered form. It is totally safe and provides some 60-trace elements that
plants need in very small quantities. It also contains growth-promoting
hormones and enzymes. These compounds are still not fully understood, but
are involved in improving a plant’s growing conditions.
Applying Growth Enhancers
Follow the directions for spraying liquid fertilizers when applying growth
enhancers as a foliar spray.
You can also apply kelp extract or meal directly to the soil; soil application
will stimulate soil bacteria. This in turn increases fertility through humus
formation, aeration and moisture retention.
Apply 1-2 pounds of kelp meal per 100 square feet of garden each spring.
Apply kelp extract once a month for the first 4 or 5 months of the growing
season. If fresh seaweed is available, rinse it to remove the sea salt and
spread it over the soil surface in your garden as a mulch or compost it.
Seaweed decays readily because it contains little cellulose.
Soil fertility in Crops System

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Increased interest in inorganic cop production has been prompted by both
consumer demand and the desire to sustain or improve the soil resource.
One of the many fundamental goals of organic farming is to produce a crop
with minimal synthetic inputs. The main concepts behind this approach is
to conserve natural resources by relying more on biological processes within
the soil system to recycle and release nutrients rather than provide high
amounts of soluble nutrients from manufactured fertilizers. The emphasis is
on nutrient cycling within the soil organic matter fraction and enhancement
of biological process to make nutrients within this fraction available to plant
roots. The focus of this discussion is to provide information on various
approaches to managing and maintaining soil fertility for organic crop
production.
When any crop is sold, nutrients are lost from the farm. While many soils
can supply nutrients for crop growth without fertilizer additions for many
years, eventually the productivity of the farm will decrease unless the
nutrients are replaced. A major challenge of managing soil fertility for
organic food production is to integrate the input of nutrients from
acceptable sources with the use of proper crop rotation. For animal farming
operations, this task is fairly straightforward. Farmers will grow and
purchase feed for their operation, provide this feed to their animals,
collect/compost the manure from the animals and then apply the manure to
appropriate crops. Legumes in association with nitrogen fixing bacteria are
used in the rotation to biologically fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. These
legumes can be used as feed for ruminants animals or as green manure.
Deep-rooted legumes also can cycle nutrients from the subsoil to the soil
surface. Grasses can also be used as forage and green manure crops to ad
organic matter and cycle nutrients from lower soil depths. Additional green
manure crops include small grains like winter rye, sorghum-sudangrass and
buckwheat.
If livestock are not raised on a farm, nutrients from manure or other organic
amendments/fertilizers need to be obtained externally. These organic
fertilizers usually have a higher cost per unit of nutrient than synthetic
fertilizer sources, which in turn will necessitate obtaining a higher price for
the crop unless costs can be cut from other sectors of the operation.
Legumes and other green manure crops can still be grown, although it may
be more difficult to find room in the rotation if you do not have animals to
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feed. Forages can be grown as cash crops, but when sold off the farm large
amounts of nutrients are exported and must be replaced.
Organic crop producers must be creative in finding opportunities in their

rotations to grow soil-burning legumes and other green manure-cover crops.
They need to carefully evaluate the cost of purchasing organic nutrient
sources versus the lost income from growing a non-cash crop.
7 Natural Fertilizers that Promote Plant Growth
In farming, organic or natural fertilizers have gained a special place and

there are several types of fertilizers today that cater to the needs of organic
farming. In order for a fertilizer to be considered organic, it has to come from
natural sources. Some of these have been gone over and detailed below.
1. Banana Peels
Bananas are available in the markets year round and are the favourite fruit
of many out there. Rarely a house doesn’t have any banana peels lying
around. And if more people took into consideration the fact that they can be
recycled in a sustainable way, our Earth would have much less baggage.
Banana peels after composting, when returned to the soil; help provide
nutrients like Potassium, Nitrogen and Calcium to the plant. Or you can let
them compost naturally by burying them in the soil before planting. They
help in the fruit formation and the plant strength they propagate is
especially essential for vertical veggies.
2. Coffee Grounds
Do not dispose of the coffee remnants in the bottom of your mug after your
morning ritual. Instead kill two birds with one stone, and recycle them as an
organic lawn fertilizer. They are an excellent addition to your compost pile,
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especially beneficial for acid loving plants like tomatoes and roses. Or you
can dilute the grounds and pour them over the soil, though it won’t be as
effective. These grounds have been claimed to produce some of the largest
and plumpest melons, carrots etcetera. They are believed to add nitrogen
and other minerals and vitamins to the soil, which in turn reduces the risk
of insect infestation.
3. Grass& Weed
Looking for a great organic fertilizer? Well look no further than beneath your
feet. Grass clippings once diluted, and then set-aside for a few days before
straining the liquid proves to be a rich source of nitrogen, oxygen and
phosphorus for the soil. Once sprayed over the soil, even miniscule grass
can do wondrous remarkable things to your organic gardening endeavours.
Weeds can also be added as they also break down quite easily and benefit
the richness of your soil. In fact, grass/weed is one of the best fertilizers.
4. Manure
Manure is probably one of the oldest means for fertilizing land out there. It
provides all the necessary nutrients like Potassium, Nitrogen and
Phosphorus that are essential for plant growth, development and
propagation. However, manure from livestock should be used; the one from
household animals contains pathogens, which causes more harm than
benefit. Composted manure and the manure that has aged for quite some
time will be the most useful in richening the soil. However proper and
guided use of manure is necessary, in order for manure to prove to really be
the best organic fertilizer.
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5. Bone meal Fertilizer
Bone meal is a quite useful albeit unfamiliar organic fertilizer. It is

essentially what the name implies, bones that are ground to powder form
before steaming sometimes, which helps the plant to get more benefit from
it. Plants need it for stronger development of roots and growth of flowers. It
is an ideal supplement for bulbs and roses that needs phosphorus to boost
up. Its N-P-K ratio is usually around 4-12-0, which may alter in steamed
bone meal. As it is implied from the ratio, it is basically a great use of
Phosphorus for a soil but doesn’t provide any Potassium and not necessarily
enough Nitrogen to the plant; Even though it also provides Calcium.
6. Egg Shells
Mainly composed of Calcium Carbonate, which is what agricultural lime is
composed of, broken egg shells from your breakfast will prove to be a great
source of Calcium, Potassium as well as traces of Phosphorus which when
combined, provide all the nutrients in a fertilizer. You won’t need to waste
your money on buying lime when eggshells simply solve any deficiency of
Calcium that may exist in the plant. Powered eggshells or eggshell tea are
both equally effective, giving your plants an essential boost.
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7. Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
Albeit a stinky alternative, fish and its by-products will make your soil rich
and fertile, with a healthy N-P-K ratio of 5-2-2. This contributes towards one
of the most powerful natural fertilizer. Which means your plant is getting
the essential nutrients for its propagation and without seriously denting
your bank account too. How about that for a budget cut?
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Self-check 3.1-2
Instruction
I .Enumeration
1. Give the 7 Natural Fertilizers that Promote Plant Growth
II. Write True if the statement is correct, and False if the statement is
wrong.
1. Forages can be grown as cash crops, but when sold off the farm large
amounts of nutrients are exported and must be replaced.
2. Kelp is sold as a dried meal or as an extract of the meal in liquid or

powdered form and provides some 60-trace elements that plants need
in very small quantities.
3. A major challenge of managing soil fertility for organic food production
is to integrate the input of nutrients from acceptable sources with the
use of proper crop rotation.
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Answers 3.1-2
I. Enumeration
1. A. Banana Peels
b. Coffee Grounds
c. Grass& Weed
d. Manure
e. Bone meal Fertilizer
f. Egg Shells
g. Fish Emulsion Fertilizer
II. 1. True
2. True
3. True
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Reference 3.1-2
https://vegalab.com/plant-growth-enhancers
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00344-015-9541-6
https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/multimedia/multimedia_pub/multimedia_
pub_fsf_60_02.html
http://passel.unl.edu/pages/informationmodule.php?
idinformationmodule=956783940&topicorder=10
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Natural Organic Fertilizers
establish natural organic fertilizers.
Introduction
These natural organic fertilizers are derive from organic sources and can be
enhance the fertility of the soil as well as the nutrition of the crops. Prior to
add a fertilizer-natural or otherwise-to your garden bed, it is advised that
you have your soil tested for nutrient levels and pH.
It is particularly crucial to find out the pH level before adding phosphorus

fertilizers because phosphorus is merely available at a relatively limited pH
range. Adding more phosphorus to an area with the wrong pH will tie up the
nutrient in the soil and not make it accessible to the plants. Not to mention,
excessive nutrients can also add to run-off problems and produce pollution
issues.
Liquid Kelp
Although the level of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium found in liquid

kelp are minimal, it is full pH essential trace nutrients and also plat growth
hormones that accelerate plant growth and improve flowering. Liquid kelp is
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created through the cold processing of this ocean plant. It is mixed with
water and used on plants both as a soil drench and a foliar soil. The
nutrients it contains are available immediately for plant use.
Rock Phosphate
A mineral rock powder, rock phosphate is a wonderful source of phosphorus

with an N-P-K ratio of 0-2-0. The phosphorus found in rock phosphate
becomes more available the 2nd year after application, and phosphorus is
most available within the soil if the pH ranges between 6.0 and 7.0. be sure
to test soil pH before adding rock phosphate, it is also good source of
calcium.
Bone Meal
A product of slaughtering facilities, bone meal is produced through the

steam processing and pulverization of animal bones. Bone meal is an
excellent high-phosphorus fertilizer with an average N-P-K ratio of 3-15-0.
The phosphorus in bone meal takes a couple of months to become
accessible to plants via microbial processes in the soil. It also contains
calcium, another essential plant. Phosphorus is most available in soil with
pH between 6.0 to 7.0 so be sure to test and adjust soil pH if necessary.
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Compost
Both commercially produced compost and homemade compost beneficial

soil by including organic matter, providing food for beneficial microbial life,
enhancing the soil’s water-holding capacity and gradually releasing plant
nutrients. Composts made with high quantities of manure or biosolids
(sewage sludge) may be high in salts and can burn plants, but composts
made with primarily residues do not generally contain troublesome
quantities of salt. A typical N-P-K ratio for compost is 2-1-1, though its exact
nutritional content depends on any factors. Compost that smells like
ammonia or is not yet fully decomposed should be allowed to finish breaking
down to avoid damaging plants. Compost also contains many
micronutrients needed for plant growth.
Manure
The nutrient content or manure relies upon many factors, including its age,
source and the presence of bedding materials. Due to potential pathogen
exposure, raw manure should be avoided. Manure should be a minimum of
180 days old or fully composted before it is applied to growing areas. In
addition to containing macronutrients, manure is also a great source of
several trace nutrients essential for plant growth.
Cottonseed Meal
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Cottonseed meal is a high nutrition fertilizer with an average N-P-K ratio of
6-0.4-1.5. it takes many months to be processed by soil microbes and
digested so that it can release the nutrients it contains. Organic farmers
should seek out organic cottonseed meal because cotton is often genetically
modified crop and lots of pesticides are used during its growth.
Blood Meal
A byproduct of slaughtering facilities, blood meal is definitely a high0-

nutrition fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 12-0-0. Simply because of its high
ammonia content, inappropriate use or over-fertilizing might lead to burned
foliage.
Alfalfa Meal
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With an average N-P-K ratio of 2-1-2, alfalfa meal provides plants not just
with these macronutrients but also many trace nutrients. It takes one to
four months to be digested by the soil microbes and for the nutrients to
become available.
Feather Meal
Whilst it takes 4 months or longer to break down and release its nutrients,
feather meal is a superb high-nitrogen fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio between
7-0-0 and 12-0-0. It is just a byproduct of poultry processing.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
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Self-check 3.1-3
Enumeration
1. Give the 9 Natural Organic Fertilizers.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
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Answers 3.1-3
1. a. Liquid Kelp
b. Rock Phosphate
c. Bone Meal
d. Compost
e. Manure
f. Cottonseed Meal
g. Blood Meal
h. Alfalfa Meal
i. Feather Meal
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Reference 3.1-3
https://theecologist.org/2011/may/20/five-bestnatural-and-organic-
fertilisers
https://www.planetnatural.com/product-category/organic-
gardening/organic-fertilizers/
https://www.pennington.com/all-products/fertilizer/resources/what-is-
organic-fertilizer
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
LEARNING OUTCOME #2. Prepare Raw Materials
CONTENTS:
 Raw materials and composition
 Blending of materials
 Environmental Factors
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
1. Materials are gathered based on production requirements and PNS

for organic fertilizer.
2. Prepare raw materials following enterprise procedure and PNS for
organic fertilizer.
CONDITIONS:

 PPE
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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LEARNING OUTCOME #2. Prepare Raw Materials

“Raw materials and development of the Institutional
composition” Competency Evaluation Tool, which
Answer Self-Check 3.2-1 trainers use, in evaluating their trainees
after finishing a competency of the
Read information sheet 3.2-2 on qualification.
“Blending of materials” Go through the learning activities
outlined for you on the left column to gain
the necessary information or knowledge
Answer Self-Check 3.2-2 before doing the tasks to practice on
performing the requirements of the
Read information sheet 3.2-3 on evaluation tool.
“Environmental Factors” The output of this Learning Outcome is a
complete Institutional Competency
Answer Self-Check 3.2-3 Evaluation Package for one Competency
of Organic Agriculture Production NC
II. Your output shall serve as one of your
portfolio for your Institutional
Competency Evaluation for Produce
Organic Fertilizer.
Feel free to show your outputs to your
trainer as you accomplish them for
guidance and evaluation.
After doing all the activities for this LO2,

you are ready to proceed to the next LO3:
Carry Out Composting.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
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Raw Material Quantity and Composition
establish Raw Material Quantity and Composition.
Most organic materials will compost, but not all of them should be put in
the pile. Some organic wastes will attract rodents, dogs and cats, while
weeds and pathogen infected materials mat survive the composting process.
Also, fatty foods and bones should be avoided because they will attract
rodents and create odor problems. Cat and dog fecal materials as well as cat
litter should not be used in the pile due to harmful pathogens.
In looking at compostable materials one consideration should be the amount

of time each material needs for breakdown. High nitrogen materials like
grass will break down very readily, while wood chips may take up to 2-years
to reach the humus stage. The higher or wider the carbon:nitrogen ratio
(C:N), the longer time it will take for breakdown to occur. Coarse materials
such as straw, nut shells, corncobs and stalks will also take longer to
breakdown. However, the greener and more succulent the material, the
quicker the breakdown period. Al materials that are high carbon should be
cut or shredded into small pieces and mixed with high nitrogen materials,
such as manure or fresh grass clippings.
It might take several attempts to get the right mixture of materials that will
give you the perfect recipe for composting. Mixing different types and sizes of
organic materials will provide a well-drained and arable compost pile. The
more varied the materials going into the pile, the better chance of maintain
the proper Ca:N ratio and efficient decomposition.
Grass clippings/woody materials mixture

Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
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Due to the potential problems associated with leaf/grass clipping compost
mixes, a viable alternative may be a chipped woody materials/grass
clippings compost. The wood chips would provide the needed air spaces to
prevent anaerobic conditions in the pile or window, while the grass clippings
would supply a nitrogen source to maintain active decomposition. The wood
chips would not break down entirely, but would take on a weathered dark-
brown color and result in an attractive mulch when finished.
Leaves/grass/pruning Mixture
It would be an ideal situation if all of the yard trimmings produced could be

mixed together and composted. However, since woody materials such as
prunings, decompose so slowly this might not advisable. Woody materials in
the compost pile can also cause problems with the turning.
Another alternative in certain situations is to grind the woody wastes to mix

with the grass and leaves. Woody materials should make up no more than
one-third of the pile. Remaining ground woody materials should be kept
separate to be used as a mulch, while the leaf/grass mix is used as a
compost.
Animal Manure
Other solid wastes such as livestock manure, can be added to leaf compost
piles as a nitrogen source. This will speed up to the composting process,
must be carefully monitored to maintain aerobic conditions and prevent
odors. The addition of livestock manure to the piles will also increase the
nitrogen content of the finished product.
A C:N ratio of 25-30:1 is optimum for efficient composting. It is important

when blending raw materials to create a mixture that will approximate this
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
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ideal and provide the proper characteristics for aerobic composting. A higher
C:N ratio will result in a slower rate of decomposition. A lower ratio results
in excess nitrogen loss, and possible odors if the mix is not turned often.
Leaves have a C:N ratio of about 40-80:1 and manures typically have a C:N
ratio of about 10-18:1 in the fresh state. Addition of carbonaceous bedding
such as sawdust, straw or newspaper will increase the C:N ratio. Other
factors such as moisture content and turning schedule will affect the blend
of materials, so some experimentation will be necessary.
Compost contains less nitrogen than fresh manure, because much of the
nitrogen is volatilized during the composting process. Much of the remaining
nitrogen is incorporated into organic compounds and is released slowly
when the compost is applied to the soil.
Carbon:Nitrogen Relationships
There are two chemical elements that are of utmost importance in all phases
of organic matter – Carbon (C) and Nitrogen (N). Of even greater importance
is their proportion or ratio to each other, the relationship is called the C:N
ratio. In order to better understand this ratio, suppose that a material is
made up of 60 parts C and 2 parts of N by weight. It would have a C:N ratio
of 30:1. This means that the material has 30 times as much C as N. if you
are trying to compost leaves with a 60:1 ratio C:N ratio for every 60 pounds
of leaves, you will need 2 pounds of N. It is important to remember that a
small percentage of the carbon and nitrogen may not actually be available
for decomposition. The decomposition of organic matter is brought about by
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
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living organisms which utilize the carbon as a source of energy and the
nitrogen for building cell structure. More carbon than nitrogen is needed.
However, the amount of nitrogen needed varies with the type of organic
materials and the type of micro-organisms present. When the nitrogen
content is too low for the amount of carbon, organisms will have to recycle
the nitrogen through many generations in order to breakdown the carbon
containing material. In the process, more carbon is used, thus the amount
of carbon is reduced to a more suitable level while the nitrogen is recycled.
More time is required for the process, however, when the initial C:N ratio
climbs above 30:1.
The presence of nitrogen in the soil can cause a slightly different process
when the soil and composting material mix, as in sheet or trench
composting or in mulching. When the C:N ratio is too great, living microbial
cells make maximum use of the available carbon by drawing on any
available soil nitrogen in the proper proportion. This condition is known as
“robbing” the soil of nitrogen and has the effect of delaying the availability of
nitrogen as a fertilizer for growing plants until some latter season when it is
no longer being used in the lifecycles of soil bacteria. Since living organisms
utilize about parts carbon each part of nitrogen, an initial C:N (available
quantity) ratio of 30 would seem most favorable for rapid composting and
would provide some nitrogen in an immediately available form in the
finished compost.
Table 1: Carbon/Nitrogen ratios for composting organics

Material Carbon/Nitrogen Ratio
Sandy loam (fine) 7:1
Humus 10:1
Food Scraps 18:1
Alfalfa hay 10:1
Grass clippings 12-25:1
Coffee grounds 20:1
Vegetable trimming 12-20:1
Cow manure 20:1
Material Carbon/Nitrogen Ratio
Horse manure 25:1
Horse manure with litter 60:1
Rotted manure 20:1
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Poultry manure (fresh) 10:1
Poultry manure with litter 18:1
Sandy loam (course) 25:1
Oak leaves (green) 26:1
Leaves, varies 35-85:1
Peat moss 58:1
Corn stalks 60:1
Straw 80:1
Pine needles 60-110:1
Farm manure 90:1
Newspaper 50-200:1
Douglas Fir bark 491:1
Sawdust, weathered 2 months 625:1
Self-check 3.2-1
Instruction
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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1. The presence of nitrogen in the soil can cause a slightly different
process when the soil and composting material mix, as in sheet or
trench composting or in mulching.
2. When the nitrogen content is too high for the amount of carbon,
organisms will have to recycle the nitrogen through many generations
in order to breakdown the carbon containing material.
3. Due to the potential problems associated with leaf/grass clipping

compost mixes, a viable alternative may not be a chipped woody
materials/grass clippings compost.
4. The more varied the materials going into the pile, the better chance of
maintain the proper Ca:N ratio and efficient decomposition.
5. Compost contains less nitrogen than fresh manure, because much of

the nitrogen is volatilized during the composting process.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Answers 3.2-1
1. True
2. False
3. False
4. True
5. True
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Reference 3.2-1
Schlesinger WH (1999) Carbon and Agriculture: carbon sequestration in

soils. Science 284:2095
Schuiling R (2014) Climate Change and CO2 removal from the atmosphere.
Nat Sci 6:659-663
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
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Blending of Materials
establish blending of materials.
Introduction
Most people tend to use the materials that are easily accessible for
composting. Most homes have leaves, trimmings of some kind, vegetable
scraps from the kitchen, coffee and tea grounds. Composting works best
when different materials, both wet and dry are mixed together. Most of the
everyday materials that come from the kitchen are listed as high N
materials. Even if you start with mainly C material, this everyday adding will
lead to a suitable C:N ratio. When adding material form the kitchen, make a
hole in the pile and bury the debris. Move the burying site around
throughout the pile. With this method, you will bring about the proper C:N
ratio if you cannot achieve it in the beginning.
Shredding of Refuse
Shredding or grinding the raw materials for composting can produce several
beneficial results particularly when using leaves, woody plants, corn stalks
and other bulky materials. Shredding or grinding organic materials makes it
more susceptible to beneficial bacteria in the pile because a greater surface
area is exposed and the natural defense resistance to vegetation against
microbial invasion is disrupted. Moreover, a piece of wood, a pile of corn
stalks or leaves packed together take much longer to compost than do small
particles of materials. Packed materials can also blocked sufficient oxygen
from reaching the pile, slowing aerobic decomposition.
Shredding the material makes it more homogeneous, produces better

aeration and controls moisture. Shredded reuse heats more uniformly. It
withstand excessive drying at the surface of the pile, it insulated against
heat loss and resist moisture penetration from rain better than does
unshredded refuse. Fly control is also more easily accomplished when refuse
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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TESDA
is pulverized or shredded. Also, users of composts as mulch find that a
shredded or ground material can be applied more readily and uniformly to
the land.
The most desirable size of particles for composting is less than 2 inches, but
larger particles can be composted satisfactorily. The particle size of the
material being composted depends on the final use of the compost.
However, on farms and large gardens, it is doubtful whether the advantages

of shredding will be sufficient to justify the additional cost and labor. In
ordinary composting any particles that are too large can be forked or
screened out and broken up when necessary. If the material is to be used on
lawns or flower gardens, it can be screened after composting through a 1 –
inch or smaller screen to give it a better appearance and to make it easier to
apply and work into the soil. The individual farmer or gardener may not be
necessarily particular about the uniformity of the compost structure when
preparing the compost. Nor is the uniformity as important for agriculture
fields as for the hobby gardener.
Initial shredding off the material is not necessary in the composting
operation. It is often the best practice to limit the initial shredding to large
pieces of organic materials. Some composters believe that permitting some
large irregular pieces to remains tends to create greater air spaces in the
mass and entrap more oxygen. Undecomposed pieces can be screened out of
the final compost and put back through the decomposing process.
Vegetative and herbaceous matter should not be ground because it becomes
soggy. The high moisture content of these materials makes them useful in
small quantities throughout the composting process.
Self-check 3.2-2
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
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Instruction
1. Shredding the material makes it more heterogeneous, produces better

aeration and controls moisture. Shredded reuse heats more uniformly.
2. Fly control is also more easily accomplished when refuse is pulverized

or shredded.
3. The most desirable size of particles for composting is more than 2

inches, but larger particles can be composted satisfactorily.
4. If the material is to be used on lawns or flower gardens, it can be

screened after composting through a 3 –inch or smaller screen to give
it a better appearance and to make it easier to apply and work into the
soil.
5. Some composters believe that permitting some large irregular pieces

to remains tends to create greater air spaces in the mass and entrap
more oxygen.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Answers 3.2-2
1. False
2. True
3. False
4. False
5. True
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
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TESDA
Reference 3.2-2
Vance E, Brookes P, Jenkinson D (1987) An extraction method for

measuring soil microbial biomass C. Soil Boil Biochem 19:703-707
Zantua Ml, Dumenil LC, Bremmer JM (1977) Relationships between soil

urease activity and other soil porperties. Soil Sci Soc Am J 41:350-352
Zhu X, Liam B, Yang X, Liu C, Zhu L (2013) Biotransformation of earthworm

activity on potassium-bearing mineral powder. J Earth Science 26:65-74
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Environmental Factors
identify environmental factors.
Climatic Conditions
Climatic conditions, particularly temperatures, wind and rainfall influence

the composting operation. The effect of atmospheric temperatures,
particularly the lowest temperatures at which composting might be
satisfactorily done, is not fully known. However, having a larger compost pile
in cooler weather will reduce the heat loss.
Temperature
Organic refuse has excellent insulation properties. Research has shown that
a steep temperature gradients exits between the outer and inner surface of
compost piles. The difference in temperature between the outer and inner
parts of the compost pile may be several degrees Fahrenheit difference per
inch of material. It seems reasonable to believe that composting can be
satisfactorily conducted even during severe freezing temperatures. It is
probable that turning is not as advantageous in cold as in warm weather
because there would be a longer temperature recovery period after each turn
when the colder exterior of the pile was turned into the interior.
Wind
Strong winds markedly the lower temperatures on the windward side of the
compost pile. Two factors play an important role in temperature reduction
by winds:
A. The coarseness of the material which affects the porosity of the pile
and the evaporation.
B. The moisture content. Unshredded or coarsely shredded material has
a greater porosity permits greater penetration of wind into the pile.
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Date Developed:
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Consequently, more evaporation takes place and when the material
becomes too dry, bacterial activity is inhibited.
Shredding or grinding to produce a maximum particle size of about 12

inches provides a more homogeneous mass which is not as easily
penetrated by winds. Thoroughly wetting, the exterior of the pile,
particularly on the windward side, will reduce wind penetration and
permit the interior high-temperature zone to extend nearer to the surface
of the pile. Wind cooling and drying of compost piles is of little
significance when piles or bins are used since the material is protected
on all sides except the top, which wetting will protect.
Rain
Rain usually does not seriously affect composting. If drainage at the

bottom of the pile in adequate, the pile should be finished with a rounded
top so that the rainwater can run-off. If the compost piles or bins are
adequately drained so that the water does not stand around the piles and
penetrate to bottoms, then a slight depression helps maintain moisture
in the pile and will occur naturally anyway as the material decomposes.
Heavy rains accompanied by high winds will penetrate a pile of coarsely
shredded material as much as 12-15 inches on the windward side, but
the resulting effect on large piles can be readily overcome by subsequent
turning.
Turning should not be done in the rain, because the material may
become waterlogged. If the material cannot be turned on the regular
schedule due to rain, it is better to let it become deficient in air for a
short time than to have the material soaked. Rainy weather can present
more of a problem when composting is done in pits or bins. The top of
the pit should be rounded to turn the water which will however, seep
along the edges to the bottom. The bottom should therefore be adequately
drained to remove the water and to allow a minimum of penetration into
the compost.
Other Factors
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Anything that kills or inhibits the growth of the microorganisms should
be kept out of the compost material.
The composting process has no effects on inorganic materials in the

compost. This includes metals, glass, stones, etc. the composing process
has very little decomposition effect on synthesized organic compounds
such as most plastics. Some of these materials pose a safety threat to
people and therefore should be kept out of the compost material as much
as possible.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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TESDA
Self-check 3.2-3
Instruction
1. Heavy rains accompanied by high winds will penetrate a pile of

coarsely shredded material as much as 15-20 inches on the windward
side, but the resulting effect on large piles can be readily overcome by
subsequent turning.
2. Climatic conditions, particularly temperatures, wind and rainfall

influence the composting operation.
3. The difference in temperature between the outer and inner parts of the
compost pile may be several degrees Fahrenheit difference per inch of
material.
4. If the material cannot be turned on the regular schedule due to rain, it

is not better to let it become deficient in air for a short time than to
have the material soaked.
5. Shredding or grinding to produce a maximum particle size of about 12

inches provides a more homogeneous mass which is not as easily
penetrated by winds.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
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Answers 3.2-3
1. False
2. True
3. True
4. False
5. True
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Reference 3.2-3
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286235139_Environmental_imp
acts_of_organic_fertilizers_usage_in_agriculture
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/215593677_IDENTIFYING_FACT
ORS_AFFECTING_ORGANIC_FARMING_SYSTEM_AT_BATTAGAM_KPK
http://www.fao.org/organicag/oa-faq/oa-faq6/en/
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
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TESDA
LEARNING OUTCOME #3. Carry Out Composting Process
CONTENTS:
 Leaf Composting
 Composting Method

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
1. Appropriate composting methods are applied based on production

requirements.
2. Compost is monitored based on PNS indicators of fully decomposed
fertilizer.
3. Quality of harvest is checked based on PNS indicators of fully
decomposed fertilizer.
CONDITIONS:

 PPE
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Learning Outcome #3: Carry Out Composting Process

“Leaf Composting” development of the Institutional Competency
Answer Self-Check 3.3-1 Evaluation Tool, which trainers use, in
evaluating their trainees after finishing a
competency of the qualification.
Read information sheet 3.3-2 on Go through the learning activities outlined for
“Composting Method” you on the left column to gain the necessary
Answer Self-Check 3.3-2 information or knowledge before doing the tasks
to practice on performing the requirements of
the evaluation tool.
complete Institutional Competency Evaluation
Package for one Competency of Organic
Agriculture Production NC II. Your output
shall serve as one of your portfolio for your
Institutional Competency Evaluation for
Produce Organic Fertilizer.
Feel free to show your outputs to your trainer as
you accomplish them for guidance and
evaluation.
After doing all the activities for this LO3, you are
ready to proceed to the next LO4:
Carry Out Composting.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
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Leaf Composting
establish leaf composting.
Leaf Composting
Microorganisms need nutrients primarily carbon and nitrogen for both

energy and growth. The ideal carbon:nitrogen (C:N) ratio is not found in any
one organic source . However, it is possible to create compost out of
primarily one raw material such as leaves. Due to their high carbon content,
leaves may takes 5 months to 2 years to compost by themselves, however,
leaves will compost and turn out a good finished product if moisture is
adequate and if the pile is turned frequently, ensuring a good supply of
oxygen.
Mixing other organic wastes with leaves to utilize these other sources in
recycling is important. The high nitrogen source such as clipping or other
plant wastes, animal manures, food scraps or other high nitrogen materials
can speed up the decomposition process and increase the nitrogen content
of the end product making it more suitable for use as a soil amendment. The
high nitrogen component must be carefully controlled because the addition
of too much nitrogen can result in the formation of ammonia creating an
odor problem. The rapid decomposition also uses up oxygen causing further
problems as the aerobic microorganisms are replaced by anaerobic ones.
Grass clippings are high in nitrogen and can be added to the leaf pile.
However, high moisture and high nitrogen content in the grass clippings
require that they may be mixed into the pile with other materials in order to
reduce the anaerobic conditions that can occur from grass being “clumped
together” in the pile.
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However, as the material decomposes, the problem of maintaining an
optimum leave grass ratio increases. After leaves are collected in the fall and
wind-rowed, they undergo a substantial reduction in volume due to the
burst of microbial activity that occurs within the first month of composting.
By the time grass clippings are being collected the following spring and
summer, the leaves have been reduced in volume as much as 5%.
If leaf/grass clipping mixes are to be composted, leaves collected in the fall

should be stockpiled without turning until grass collection begins. At that
time, form a pile with the appropriate mix of stockpiled leaves and grass
clippings. The leaf piles will likely be anaerobic and some short term odors
may be generated when the piles are distributed.
Leaves act as a bulking agent, allowing more oxygen into the windrow to
maintain aerobic conditions. Grass clippings, because they are high in
nitrogen and moisture provide needed nitrogen and speed the decomposition
and restore vigorous composting activity ti pile. Again, experimenting with
mixes is a good way to find the mix that works for you.
It should be noted that gras clippings do not need to be removed from the
lawn when mowing. If lawns are moved frequently, and the clippings allowed
to fall back into the lawns, their collection is not necessary. Grass clippings,
being high in nitrogen will decompose rapidly and actually return nitrogen
to the soil, reducing the need to supply nitrogen in the form of fertilizers.
Self-Check 3.3-1
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Leaf Composting
Instruction
1. If leaf/grass clipping mixes are to be composted, leaves collected in

the fall should be stockpiled without turning until grass collection
begins.
2. The leaf piles will likely be aerobic and some short term odors may be
generated when the piles are distributed.
3. The low nitrogen source such as clipping or other plant wastes,

animal manures, food scraps or other high nitrogen materials can
speed up the decomposition process and increase the nitrogen content
of the end product making it more suitable for use as a soil
amendment.
4. High moisture and high nitrogen content in the grass clippings require
that they may be mixed into the pile with other materials in order to
reduce the anaerobic conditions.
5. The rapid decomposition not uses up oxygen causing further problems

as the aerobic microorganisms are replaced by anaerobic ones.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
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Answers 3.3-1
Leaf Composting
1. True
2. False
3. False
4. True
5. False
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
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Reference 3.3-1
Leaf Composting
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/ingredients/composting-
leaves.htm
https://compostguide.com/using-leaves-for-composting/
https://www.epicgardening.com/composting-leaves/
https://extension.psu.edu/composting-leaves
https://www.wikihow.com/Compost-Leaves
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
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Composting Methods
establish composting methods.
Composting Methods
There are just as many composting techniques as there are methods of

farming. That is everyone has specific composting methods that work best,
however, some techniques have stood the test of time. And those are the
techniques that we have listed below:
 Sheet Composting
 In-vessel composting
 Biodynamic Composting
 Anaerobic Composting
 Trench Composting
a. Sheet Composting
Sheet composting or also known as sheet mulching can be a great way
to add organic matter back into your soils. Essentially, this
composting technique entails spreading thin layers of organic
materials (i.e. compost ingredients) on top of the soil surface. Some
also consider this technique to be “composting in place.” Using green
manure is another means of sheet composting, this technique is often
used on a large scale, and however, it can also be done successfully in
your backyard.
b. In-vessel Composting
In-vessel composting is becoming more and more popular with large-
scale compost producers. This method involves composting within an
enclosed containment system, often a large cylindrical-shaped
container. The equipment involved in setting up an in-vessel
composting system is typically quite expensive, and therefore, usually
limits it is usage to industrial-sized composting operations. Some
smaller vessels do exist, however, they are often pricey. There are
numerous benefits of in-vessel composting such as an increased
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
processing speed, ear-round composting and a highly controlled
environment.
c. Biodynamic Composting
Biodynamic composting evolved out of a complete system of farming
developed by Rudolph Steiner, an Austrian philosopher. Biodynamic
techniques are not just limited to the farmer’s field, they can be
practiced in gardens big and small. Biodynamic composting is very
particular in terms of the shape of the compost pile, the layering
pattern, and the materials used. However, one of the most significant
differences between this composting technique and other sis the use
of biodynamic preparations, or “prep.” These additives are plant-
based, and are made in a very specific manner by highly trained
individuals. These preparations are aid to produce a compost that is
far superior to all other composts.
d. Anaerobic Composting
Anaerobic composting describes the biological breakdown of organic
materials by living anaerobic organisms. This may not be the most
odor-rific composting method, but it can be quite effective. Some of
the benefits of composting anaerobically include the following:
 It is one of the most basic means of producing compost;
 It can be dine on a small scale; and
 It typically produces more humus per unit of starting material
than most other composting methods.
e. Trench Composting
Trench composting involves digging holes in your garden soil and
burying raw compost ingredients. Some people swear by this method,
whereas other want nothing to do with it. Similar to anaerobic
composting, this method of decomposition is quite simplistic, however,
the materials to take longer to breakdown than when using other
composting techniques.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Self-Check 3.3-2
Composting Methods
I. Enumeration
1. Give the 5 techniques for composting methods.
II. Write True if the statement is correct, and False if the statement is
wrong.
1. Biodynamic techniques are not just limited to the farmer’s field,

they can be practiced in gardens big and small.
2. Anaerobic composting describes the biological breakdown of

organic materials by living aerobic organisms.
3. Using green manure is another means of sheet composting, this

technique is often used on a large scale, and however, it can
also be done successfully in your backyard.
4. There are numerous benefits of in-vessel composting such as an

increased processing speed, ear-round composting and a highly
controlled environment.
5. Trench composting does not involve digging holes in your

garden soil and burying raw compost ingredients.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Answers 3.3-2
Composting Methods
I.
1. Sheet Composting
2. In-vessel composting
3. Biodynamic Composting
4. Anaerobic Composting
5. Trench Composting
II.
1. True
2. False
3. True
4. True
5. False
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Reference 3.3-2
Composting Methods
http://blog.davey.com/2017/09/compost-shredded-dry-leaves-to-get-these-
leaf-compost-benefits/
https://www.epicgardening.com/composting-leaves/
https://oldworldgardenfarms.com/2012/10/02/composting-leaves-4-
simple-tips-to-making-great-compost-with-leaves/
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/ingredients/composting-
leaves.htm
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
LEARNING OUTCOME #4. Compost Harvest
CONTENTS:
 Fertilizing and Harvesting
 Process Compost Fertilizer
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
1. Processing of compost fertilizer are carried-out based on production

requirements.
2. Record keeping is performed according to enterprise procedure.
CONDITIONS:

 PPE
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Learning Outcome #4: Compost Harvest

“Fertilizing and Harvesting” development of the Institutional Competency
Answer Self-Check 3.3-1 Evaluation Tool, which trainers use, in
evaluating their trainees after finishing a
competency of the qualification.
Read information sheet 3.3-2 on Go through the learning activities outlined for
“Process Compost Fertilizer” you on the left column to gain the necessary
Answer Self-Check 3.3-2 information or knowledge before doing the tasks
to practice on performing the requirements of
the evaluation tool.
complete Institutional Competency Evaluation
Package for one Competency of Organic
Agriculture Production NC II. Your output
shall serve as one of your portfolio for your
Institutional Competency Evaluation for
Produce Organic Fertilizer.
Feel free to show your outputs to your trainer as
you accomplish them for guidance and
evaluation.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Fertilizing and Harvesting
establish leaf composting.
Fertilizing
The most common natural fertilizer you may be familiar with is compost; a
combination of decaying organic material like old banana peels, eggshells
and manure. Other organic options of fertilizer include blood meal from
slaughterhouses or fish fertilizers. Lad fertility decreases over time because
we interrupt the natural cycle of growth and decay; we grow the food on the
farm, but we dispose of it elsewhere. Therefore, the vital nutrients that the
soil needs are never returned and the soil becomes dependent on external
sources of fertility, whether that source is chemical or natural one is up to
us to decide.
Squash need a lot of fertilizer. When you planted your seeds, you put a
small amount of 10-10-10 around the planting locations. Now that the
plants are coming up, they need another small dose. Do this by sprinkling
the granules on the ground around the base of the plans. Read the package
to see how much to use for each plant. This will provide the nutrients
needed for the fast growth of the squash will have over the next few weeks.
Water in the fertilizer well so that the roots would not burn. Too much
fertilizer will do more damage to a plant than no or not enough fertilizer, so
Document No. TESDA
Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
be sure to read the directions on the package or ask a professional at your
local garden center. Remember to always wear a mask and gloves when
using fertilizer.
Harvesting
The secret to harvesting any type of summer squash is harvest early and
harvest often. Once a squash plant begins to produce, check it every day for
harvestable fruit. Yellow squash and zucchini are harvested when they are
4-8 inches long; any longer and they begin to get bitter. Patty pan squash
can be harvested when they are very small. The smaller the patty pan is the
more flavor it has, any larger than 4 inches and they begin to lose their
great taste. Overripe or large fruit can actually slow down a squash plant’s
production because it tells the plant that it does not need to start any new
fruit.
The best way to harvest squash is by using a clean knife and using your
arm to go directly into the plant where the fruit is sprouting. Since squash
have small pikes, you might get scratched up if you try to reach across the
entire plant. Once you grasps the fruit, use your knife to cut the stem. Push
the blade away from your head so that you would not cut yourself. A knife
makes a clean cut that heals over more quickly than a break. Pests can
attack your plants at breaks so be sure and make the cut as smooth and
clean as possible.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Self-check 3.4-1
I. Write True if the statement is correct, and False if the statement is

wrong.
1. The vital nutrients that the soil needs are never returned and the soil
becomes independent on external sources of fertility, whether that
source is chemical or natural one is up to us to decide.
2. When you planting your seeds, you put a small amount of 10-5-10
around the planting locations.
3. The secret to harvesting any type of summer squash is harvest early

and harvest often.
4. The best way to harvest squash is by using a clean knife and using
your arm to go directly into the plant where the fruit is sprouting.
5. Overripe or large fruit can actually slow down a squash plant’s

production because it tells the plant that it does not need to start any
new fruit.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Answers 3.4-1
1. False
2. False
3. True
4. True
5. true
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Reference 3.4-1
https://bonnieplants.com/gardening/the-basics-of-fertilizing/
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/crop-production/pastures-
forages/fertilizing-hay-production
https://www.universalclass.com/articles/self-help/vegetable-gardening-
fertilizing-your-garden.htm
https://www.cropnutrition.com/understanding-fertilizer-and-its-essential-
role-in-high-yielding-crops
https://www.soilalgae.com/pages/introduction-to-fertilizer
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Process Compost Fertilizer
establish process compost fertilizer.
Composting is a method of speeding natural decomposition under controlled

conditions. Raw organic materials are converted to compost by a succession
of organisms. During the first stages of composting, bacteria increase
rapidly. Later actinomycetes (filamentous bacteria), fungi and protozoans go
to work. After much of the carbon in the compost has been utilized and the
temperature has fallen, centipedes, millipedes, sow bugs, earthworms and
other organisms continue the decomposition.
Receiving Dehydrated Cake (Sewage Sludge)
Dehydrated cake discharged from the sewage plants and business

establishments is transported by dump truck to the material tank and
stored.
Mixing-in
Dehydrated cake and a large volume of compost that serves as an inoculum

and a moisture adjusting medium are mixed in using a wheel loader. Thus,
the optimum fermentation conditions for microbial activity is prepared.
First Fermentation
Adjusted sewage mixture is evenly deposited using a wheel loader in the

fermenter. Then, an appropriate amount of air for fermentation is supplied
through the air duct from the blower located below the fermenter. In 405
days of fermentation, microorganisms decompose the organic matter, and
allow for moisture evaporation and sterilization.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Second Fermentation (Curing Fermentation)
Using a wheel loader, the material that underwent the first fermentation and
the recycled compost are mixed and the mixture is turned. When the
optimum fermentation condition for microbial activity is ready, the mixture
is evenly deposited in the fermenter and an appropriate amount of air is
supplied through the air duct from the blower located below the fermenter.
Fermentation continues for another 405 days for further organic matter
decomposition, moisture evaporation and sterilization.
Third to Fifth Fermentation (Curing Fermentation)
When the second fermentation is completed, the compost can be used as

fertilizer or soil conditioner. Further turning and fermentation in the same
manner as for the second fermentation will produce more mature fertilizer
and soil conditioner. Therefore, at Pyramid, the process is repeated up to the
fifth fermentations.
Packaging
Highly matured compost is fed in the sorting screen hopper and transported
by belt conveyor. After going through vibrating sieve, weighing machine and
packing machine, the product is bagged. (3 or 5 m/m diameter pellets can
be bagged)
Sizes and Shapes
 8 mm or less diameter
 3 mm or less diameter
 5 mm diameter pellets
 3 mm diameter pellets
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Self-check 3.4-2
I. Write True if the statement is correct, and False if the statement is

wrong.
1. Highly matured compost is fed in the sorting screen hopper and

transported by belt conveyor.
2. When the second fermentation is completed, the compost can be used

as fertilizer or soil conditioner.
3. When the optimum fermentation condition for microbial activity is

ready, the mixture is evenly deposited in the fermenter and an
appropriate amount of air is supplied through the air duct from the
blower located below the fermenter.
4. After much of the carbon in the compost has been utilized and the
temperature has fallen, centipedes, millipedes, sow bugs, earthworms
and other organisms continue the decomposition.
5. Adjusted sewage mixture is evenly deposited using a wheel loader in

the fermenter.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Answers 3.4-2
1. True
2. False
3. True
4. True
5. True
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Reference 3.4-2
https://extension.illinois.edu/compost/process.cfm
https://www.moneycrashers.com/composting-make-compost-fertilizer-
home/
http://www.madehow.com/Volume-5/Compost.html
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA
Task Sheet
Apply the knowledge you have gained to your organic agriculture

production. In this module, you will:
1. Begin the first step in producing organic fertilizer for a commercial

purposes.
2. Define the scope for your project.
3. Develop a project folder for your design project.
To complete your task, you must know the following general details about
your project:
 The scope of the plan, including the following:

o Preparation of raw materials plan with general and specialized
equipment components including blending of materials and
composition and identifying all environmental factors
o Application of natural organic fertilizers as growth enhancers in

composting area
o Carry out composting process including leaf composting and

composting method.
Document No. TESDA

Date Developed:
Organic June 2019
Issued by:
Agriculture
TESDA

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COMPETENCY BASED LEARNING MATERIAL

Agriculture and Fishery Sector

Organic Agriculture Production NC II

Produce Organic Fertilizer

Producing Organic Fertilizer

Document No. TESDA

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

Document No. TESDA

The unit of competency, “Produce Organic Fertilizer”, is one of the

The module, produce organic fertilizer, contains training materials

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

 Read and understand all information sheets and complete answer

 Read and understand the basic process on producing organic

 Familiarize in the system in preparing organic fertilizer and perform

 Submit outputs to your facilitator for evaluation and recording in the

Document No. TESDA

 You must pass the Institutional Competency Evaluation for this

Document No. TESDA

No. Unit of Competency Module Title Code

2 Use farm tools and Using farm tools and AGR321202

3 Perform estimation and Performing estimation AGR321203

4 Develop and update Developing and updating TRS311201

5 Perform record keeping Performing record AGR321205

2 Produce organic Producing organic AGR611306

3 Produce organic Producing organic AGR611301

Document No. TESDA

Document No. TESDA

QUALIFICATION TITLE : Organic Agriculture Production

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : Produce Organic Fertilizer

MODULE TITLE : Producing Organic Fertilizer

This module covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to

Nominal Duration: 24 hours

Upon completion of this module, the trainee/student must be able to:

2. Prepare raw materials

3. Carry out composting process

Document No. TESDA

Qualification Title : Organic Agriculture Production NC II

Unit of Competency : Produce Organic Fertilizer

Module Title : Producing Organic Fertilizer

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to

Upon completion of this module, you MUST be able to:

1. Prepare composting area

Document No. TESDA

1. Site is selected based on compost fertilizer production requirements.

The student/trainee must be provided with the following:

Document No. TESDA

Learning Activities Special Instructions

After doing all the activities for this LO1,

Information Sheet 3.1-1

Document No. TESDA

By compost we mean a material completely broken down aerobically and

When describing fertilizer, t is important to remember that the working

Organically prepared fertilizing agents can be used to grow vegetables, raise

In like manner organic fertilizer v=can be used in vegetable gardens to

Organic fertilizer can be purchased in most farmer’s exchange stores, along

Dry Organic Fertilizers

Applying Dry Fertilizers

During the growing season, boost plant growth by side-dressing dry

Liquid Organic Fertilizers

Applying Liquid Fertilizers

Document No. TESDA

2. The most common way to apply dry fertilizer is to broadcast it and

3. Inorganically prepared fertilizing agents can be used to grow