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Agricultural Approach: Organic Agriculture and Cultivar Species

Organic Agriculture in Dragon Fruit Plantation

The Ilocos region is the biggest producer of dragon fruit in the Philippines. Most of the dragon fruit plantations apply conventional farming methods. In order to secure the sustainability of these dragon fruit plantations, organic farming is introduced to improve the soil quality and increase the farm’s productivity.
Climate Adaptation Effectiveness

The techniques, methods, and materials used in organic farming contribute to improvement inland productivity allowing for sustainable and continuous production. The use of organic fertilizers was found to increase the organic matter in soil improving its fertility and quality. This also leads to the soil’s better water absorption and a decrease in soil erosion.

Climate Hazards

  • Drought

Locations

  • Barangay Palacapac, Candon City, Ilocos Sur, Region I (Ilocos Region)

Adaptation Sectors

  • Agriculture
  • Water Management

CCET Instuments

  • Action Delivery

Target Group based on Vulnerability

Basic Sectors:
  • Children
  • Farmers and Landless Rural Workers
  • Indigenous Peoples
  • Persons with Disabilities
  • Senior Citizens
  • Women
  • Youth and Students

Evaluations

Economic / Financial Effectiveness
Low

There was an observed increase in productivity in the plantations due to organic farming.

Technical Feasibility
Mid

Agricultural technicians and advisers conduct training and extension services for farmers transitioning to the organic farming method. They learn techniques and methods including vermiculture to produce organic fertilizer.

Social Acceptability
Mid

Organic farming can be practiced in both small and large-scale farms. In Candon City, Ilocos Sur, the majority of the households have a dragon fruit plant.

Environmental Impact
Mid (+)

Organic farming promotes sustainable land management through the use of organic fertilizers, lessening chemical inputs which contributes to soil acidification.

Mitigation co-benefit

Organic farming prevents or reduces the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Keywords

organic farming, organic agriculture, degraded soil, soil fertility, drought resistant, drought-resistant crop, water holding capacity; dragon fruit and climate

References

• Ngilangil, L. (2012). Organic Agriculture in Dragon Fruit Plantation: Candon City, Ilocos Sur. In: MDGF: Compendium of Good Practices on Climate Change Adaptation

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