Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is no longer regarded as a “poor man’s crop.” It is classified as a cash crop in agriculture. 

Popularly known as “kamoteng kahoy”, it is utilized for animal feed and industrial purposes in addition to being the primary source of energy in the tropics.

To maximize the crop’s potential, the Department of Agriculture (DA) – Caraga conducts a Site-specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) for Cassava production project in the region. 

Spearheaded by the Research Division, the Project is in collaboration with the Institute of Plant Breeding – University of the Philippines Los Baños and International Plant Nutrition Institute – Southeast Asia Program, Malaysia, and funded by the DA – Bureau of Agricultural Research. 

SSNM Cassava Focal Person Richard L. Tabudlong said that the 2-year project that started last year aims to increase the yield and income of cassava farmers through the development of Nutrient Expert (NE) for cassava in the region. 

“NE is a nutrient decision support software that uses the principles of SSNM and enables farm advisors to develop fertilizer recommendations tailored to a specific field or growing environment. The participation of the Farmer-Cooperators and the Local Government Unit in the region will provide information and tools that will enable farmers and the fertilizer industry to benefit from the growing cassava markets,” Tabudlong said. 

Moreover, the key principle of nutrient management is balancing soil nutrient inputs with crop requirements. The 4R Nutrient Stewardship approach was also used in the study to help achieve optimal crop yields: right source, right amount, right time, and right place.  

Based on the initial result of the trials conducted, four sites reported significant yield results during the first cropping (April 2020 – May 2021) in Alegria, Surigao del Norte; Loreto, and Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, and Bislig City, Surigao del Sur. 

The response of cassava to various fertilizer management differed significantly. The average yield utilizing SSNM is 12.14 tons/hectare, compared to 8.23 tons/hectare for farmer’s fertilizer practice and 5.47 tons/hectare for the unfertilized control. The variety used in the region is Golden Yellow. 

“Now in its second year, the project implementation is expected to affirm and refine the initial results. The on-farm trials being conducted in the region are paving the way for a refined Nutrient Expert for Cassava Philippines,” he said.

Once released, the digital decision support tool is hoped to give cassava farmers a fertilizer recommendation that can boost their production and profit by suggesting a meaningful yield goal and providing a fertilizer management strategy. (Rhea C. Abao, Information Officer II DA-Caraga RAFIS)