The Agronomist

  Agricultural extension and communication play a vital role in the development of the agriculture sector. It is a system of delivering information, education, and technology to farmers and other stakeholders in the agriculture industry. In the Philippines, agricultural extension and communication have been part of the government's agricultural development programs to improve the lives of farmers and increase food production. To prepare for the licensure examination for agriculturists in the Philippines, it is essential to understand the basics of agricultural extension and communication. This post will provide a review of the fundamentals of agricultural extension and communication. Agricultural extension is a system of delivering information, education, and technology to farmers and other stakeholders in the agriculture industry. It aims to increase the productivity and income of farmers by providing them with relevant and timely information and skills. Extension workers act

  Barley grass, the young leaves of the barley plant, has been gaining popularity as a health supplement in recent years. It is packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, that make it a potential superfood. In this article, we will take a closer look at barley grass and explore some of its potential health benefits. Barley grass is a good source of vitamins and minerals , including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, iron, and potassium. It is also rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and chlorophyll, which can protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation (Balakrishnan et al., 2012). Some studies suggest that barley grass may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties (Park et al., 2019; Na et al., 2019). Barley grass may also be beneficial for improving digestive health . Its high fiber content can help regulate bowel movements and promote regularity. In addition, barley grass contains enzymes that aid in digestion, such as a

  Eggplants, also known as aubergines, are a staple crop in many Filipino households. They are used in various dishes such as tortang talong, adobong talong, and pinakbet. However, growing eggplants can be challenging, especially when dealing with diseases and pests that can harm the plants and reduce yields. In this guide, we'll discuss common eggplant diseases and pests in the Philippines and how to treat and prevent them. Bacterial Wilt Bacterial wilt is a common disease that affects eggplants. It is caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum and can cause the plant to wilt and die. The bacteria can survive in the soil for years, so prevention is key. To prevent bacterial wilt, rotate crops, practice good sanitation by removing infected plants, and avoid working on wet soil to reduce soil compaction. If your plants are already infected, there is no cure. Remove and destroy the infected plants and do not replant eggplants in the same area for at least two years. Fruit

  Tomatoes are one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the world, and they are also a profitable crop in the Philippines. With the country's favorable climate and soil conditions, growing tomatoes can be a lucrative business venture for farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Here are some reasons why tomato farming is a good investment in the Philippine context. High Demand : Tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many Filipino dishes and are highly sought after in local markets. The demand for fresh and quality tomatoes is continuously increasing, providing a promising market for tomato farmers. Easy to Grow : Tomatoes are relatively easy to grow and do not require extensive agricultural knowledge. They can be grown in both large and small-scale farms, making them accessible to a wide range of farmers. Short Production Cycle : Tomatoes have a relatively short production cycle, with most varieties taking only 60 to 90 days from planting to harvest. This means that f

  Sunflower oil is a popular and versatile oil used in cooking, baking, and even skincare. But have you ever wondered how sunflower oil is made? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how sunflower seeds are processed into sunflower oil. Harvesting : Sunflowers are harvested when the seeds are mature and the flower head droops. The flower heads are cut and left to dry. Dehulling : Once the flower heads are dry, they are sent through a machine to remove the seeds from the head. The seeds are then washed to remove any remaining plant debris. Roasting : The seeds are roasted at a temperature of 140-170°C for 15-20 minutes to improve the flavor of the oil and make it easier to extract. Pressing : The roasted seeds are then pressed to extract the oil. This is typically done using an expeller press, which crushes the seeds to release the oil. Some manufacturers may also use solvent extraction to extract more oil from the seeds. Refining : The crude oil that is extracted from the s

In recent years, data science has become an integral part of agriculture, leading to the development of new tools and techniques that help farmers improve their yields and optimize their operations. From predictive modeling to precision farming, the applications of data science in agriculture are vast and varied. One of the main benefits of data science in agriculture is its ability to help farmers make more informed decisions. By analyzing data from sensors, satellites, and other sources, farmers can gain insights into everything from soil health to weather patterns, allowing them to make more accurate predictions and adjustments to their farming practices. Data science also allows farmers to optimize their use of resources such as water and fertilizer. By using sensors to monitor soil moisture levels, for example, farmers can ensure that their crops are getting just the right amount of water they need, reducing water waste and improving crop health. Similarly, data-driven fertilize

  Field crops are a significant source of food, fiber, and other essential products. They are the foundation of agriculture, and they play a crucial role in the economy of most countries. These crops are grown in large-scale agricultural fields, and they are classified based on their uses, growth cycle, and other characteristics. Understanding the purpose and classification of field crops is essential in designing effective agricultural systems that meet the needs of consumers and producers. The purpose of field crops The primary purpose of field crops is to provide food, feed, and fiber to meet the increasing demand for these products. They are also used as a source of raw materials for various industries, such as biofuel, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. In addition, field crops can help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon and promoting soil health. They also provide environmental benefits by preventing soil erosion, conserving water resources, and enhancing biodiversity. C