Learning Objective/s
To cite the importance of scientific ways of planting;
2. To enumerate the requirements in putting up a nursery for propagating trees;
3. To cite the tools and equipment and their uses;
4. To explain how to plant and care for tree seedlings;
5. To describe the methods of propagating trees.
Discussions
Importance of the Scientific Way of Planting Seedlings
Using the scientific way of planting is important because of the following:
1. You are assured that the plants will grow fast, strong, and healthy.
2. There is less mortality or death of plants because pests and diseases will be
controlled.
3. More plants can be grown and harvested.
4. You can demand a good price in selling good quality plants.
5. There is more profit gained when you have more harvest and your plants are of the best kind.
Requirements in Putting Up a Nursery for Propagating Trees and Fruit Trees
To put up a nursery, one must consider the following requirements:
1. Location/Site – Choose a place near a source of water. Remember, water is a
requirement for plants to grow and flourish. Water also provides coolness which
plants need to counter the extreme heat of the sun.
2. Soil Type – Different plants need different types of soil. But for young plants, the most common soil used is the loam type which is rich in organic matter.
3. Shed – A structure essential in propagating young trees. A shed should have a
partially lighted roof to allow sunlight for the young tree to grow. It should also
protect the plants from rains and typhoons so they will not be flooded or destroyed.
4. Storage place for tools and equipment – It is important to have a complete set
of tools or its substitutes to be able to carry out all nursery activities properly. Tools must be cleaned before and after using. Oil them occasionally to avoid rust. Keep them in the storage area after use. Scattered tools can be risky for children.
5. Boxes, pots, and plots for germinating seeds – There are three places to
germinate seeds, young plants, and young trees. Boxes and plots are usually used for germinating seeds. Pots or plastic bags are usually used for young trees. All of these should be arranged in one place.
Ways of Preventing and Controlling Pests and Diseases
When pests and diseases are not controlled, they can lead to one of the following consequences:
death of the plant,
retardation of growth, and
poor production of fruits
Pruning - is the process of cutting the infected parts of the plants while still in the early stage of infection.
Pests and diseases can be controlled through the proper use of fungicides and pesticides.
Fungicides and pesticides must be used regularly for the proper control of diseases.
The most common insects that feed on healthy plants with new leaves are
ants,
bugs,
moths,
mites, and
termites.
Fungal attack on plants is shown by the brown spots formed on leaves
: by the formation of brown lesions and holes.
Health and Safety Practices in Planting
Get rid of insects and pests that invade the tree or seedlings. Destroy them right
away before they multiply and cause damage to the tree.
Some common insects that feed on plants.
Aphids,
planthoppers,
leaf rollers,
webworms, and
ladybugs
Use organic fertilizers instead of commercial fertilizers. It is economical and safer to use. Commercial fertilizers, when used in excess, can poison the soil.
Wear proper attire when planting.
Loose,
comfortable, and
absorbent clothing
Evaluation