BONGABONG, ORIENTAL MINDORO– Thirty (30) agricultural extension workers, farmers, students and agricultural enthusiasts successfully completed the three-day Training on Urban Agriculture through Soilless Crop Production on April 16-18, 2024 at Gabutero Organic Farm, Brgy. Labonan, Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro.
During the training, the participants learned from the lecture-discussions of Ms. Roseanne D. Nilo, the ATI MIMAROPA National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program Point Person about hydroponics, its diverse systems, historical evolution, and comparison to traditional soil-based farming. Moreover, topics on pests and diseases management, alongside nutrient deficiencies commonly encountered in hydroponic setups were discussed.
Hands-on activities such as sterilization of inert media and seed sowing practices which were necessary in hydroponic setups, enhanced the participant’s learning experience.
Experiential learning on different types of hydroponics was held at Blake's Agritourism Techno Farm, owned by Mr. Carl De Guzman, a certified Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) in Brgy. San Mariano, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro. During this activity, the participants had fisrthand exposure to different hydroponic systems in the LSA.
During the tour, Mr. Carl De Guzman shared valuable insights into the operational framework of his farm, demonstrating various controls crucial for farm management. He also emphasized the feasibility of hydroponic farming as a sustainable agricultural method and encouraged its adoption.
To start their hydroponic projects, each attendee received starter kits designed for Kratky hydroponics after the training.
