PinoyEcoFarmer

I was quite surprised to see a hydroponics set-up opposite the marker of the the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park. The two-table set-up is in a sleepy and laid-back barangay of San Roque, Bulusan, Sorsogon. They grow lettuce and harvest them after 30 days.

Above: The marker of the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park

The hydroponics assembly was a thesis of Glenn Belarmino while he was studying at the Camarines Sur State Agricultural College (CSSAC) in Pili, Camarines Sur. He is now in Hawaii as an exchange farmer. His father (Fernando) continues to grow lettuce using hydroponics technology. Mang Fernando was so helpful and generous with information when I asked about the hydroponics. He even showed me his formulation and the nutrients he is using.

Above: Mang Fernando Belarmino

Above: His notebook which serves as reference

Above: The magazine article which served as an inspiration

Mang Fernando acknowledges that uses synthetic chemical fertilizers in the liquid mixture but he does not use pesticides to protect the lettuce from pests. He is not aware of an alternative purely organic solution which he can use in his hydroponics. He uses Peter’s Solution (15-10-30), Magnesium Sulfate and Calcium Nitrate. These are mixed in a big tub of water and pumped into the PVC tubes. The liquid mixture recirculates back to the tub using an ordinary aquarium pump.

Above: Peter’s solution

Above: Magnesium Sulfate

Above: Calcium Nitrate

Above: The plastic tub for the liquid fertilizer mixture

The Belarminos sell the lettuce for P300 a kilo. Most of the buyers are mid-income to rich families who can afford the price.

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