Despite the onslaught of typhoons and high rainfall, Magsasaka Siyentista (MS) Gelises Ladores was able to harvest a considerable yield of tomatoes from his Science and Technology-based Farm (STBF) on off-season tomato production.
In a technology field day held recently at his residence in Brgy. Santo Cristo, San Antonio, Nueva Ecija, the MS shared the key to his new-found success --- the application of science and technology (S&T) interventions on his farm.
The improvement in Ladores’ tomato was evident as he toured guests and participants in his farm.
Along with the tour, he shared the recommended S&T interventions he practiced such as the use of Diamante Maxx tomato variety, seedling tray method, double row planting distance (50 cm between plants, 100 cm between rows), pruning, and plastic mulching.
He also emphasized the importance of using trellis for increased production of quality marketable tomatoes.
Ladores reported deriving a net income of P11, 964 from his STBF set-up in the first production cycle whereas before, he only earned P1, 120.
Dr. Aurora Rojas, the technical expert from the Central Luzon State University complimented the presentation of the MS by elaborating on the science behind his practice, particularly on the benefits derived from pruning, mulching, and the use of quality/ certified seeds.