CHAPTER I

 Introduction and Its Background

Onions or Allium cepa also known as the bulb onion or common onion is a vegetable that is
the most widely cultivated species of the genus Allium. The onion is an ancient cultivated vegetable
that originated in Central Asia. In the Philippines, it is an important bulb vegetable as it is one of the
widely used condiments in traditional cuisine. The onion being cultivated in the country is
represented by three types: the shallot or multiplier onion (A. cepa cv.gr. ascalonicum), the big
yellow-skinned type represented by ‘Yellow Granex’, and the medium-sized purple-skinned type
represented by ‘Red Creole’.The top onion producers are Central Luzon and Ilocos Region having a
49.82% and 31.38% of the national production, respectively (“Onion Production In The
Philippines,”2019). The onion skin and peels are known to be rich in antioxidants, quercetin and
have anti-obesity effects. Several clinical trials and studies confirmed their usefulness. Thus,
onionskin shouldn’t be thrown away as they can be useful in creating an organic liquid fertilizer for
all plants growing indoors or outdoors. This product will increase their disease resistance, growth,
strong stems, and productivity since it is rich in nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, iron,
magnesium, and copper (“8 Onion Skin Uses,” 2019.) It can also help in enriching the soil and making
a plant’s root stronger. With this information, the study on the effectivity of the onion as an organic
fertilizer was developed.

Globally, farmers are adopting organic fertilizers due to their low cost and healthy long-
lasting impact on soil (Shetty, Alvares, & Yadav, 2014). Many types of fertilizers are coming out in
the market and these fertilizers are quite expensive. Commercial fertilizers can harm the soil if
they’re not used wisely. However, the organic food industry has witnessed increased demand for
organic food among consumers in recent years. This rising demand is cultivating the growth of the
global organic fertilizer market. In contrast, a lack of awareness about the benefits of organic
fertilizers among farmers and the high adoption rate of chemical fertilizers over organic fertilizers
are expected to hamper the growth of the global organic fertilizers market. The world is also facing
challenges on the increase of bio-waste especially onion waste. Global onion production was
estimated at 89 million tonnes in 2014 with an increase in production of more than 25% over the

1
past decade. As a result, more than 550,000 tonnes of onionskin bio-waste is produced annually
(Choi et al., 2015). These reasons are enough for the researchers to conduct the study.

Nationally, agriculture is the backbone of the country’s economy, which contributes to 20%
of the country’s GDP. In recent years, the Philippine government has adopted sustainable
development of economy and environment by publishing some related policies. Fertilizer policies
are issued and have been an important component of the Philippine agricultural policy now. Various
organic fertilizers are commercially produced and utilized, and the organic fertilizer market is rapidly
expanding in the country, solving industrial waste disposal problems and promotes sustainable
development. Because the problem of industrial waste disposal hasn’t ceased, the researchers
wanted to conduct this study to help minimize the problem.

Locally, Cebu isn’t exempted from the industrial waste problems in our country. Cebu City
produces mostly organic wastes like leftover food and rotten fruits and vegetables, which is
estimated at 67% of the total waste generation in the city. The recyclable waste is estimated at 21%
and the rest is hazardous and residuals (“Solid Waste Management City Profile,“ n.d.).Like other
growing cities, the city of Cebu has problems managing its solid wastes. The major solid waste
management problems of the city can be broadly attributed to weak institutional and organizational
systems for SWM (solid waste management), problems in the upper waste stream, and problems at
the downstream. One of the solutions in overcoming these problems is coming up with a P160, 000
compost facility which seeks to convert biodegradable garbage into organic fertilizer. The city has
been practicing waste segregation and organic farming through the institutionalization of the
compost or organic fertilizer facility at the city nursery. City Agriculture Department employees
collect at least one ton of biodegradable waste from the Carbon market every day. Then, the
garbage materials are put into the composting facility using Trichoderma technology. One ton of
garbage generates 350 kilos of organic fertilizer that the demo farm at the nursery will use. The city
embarked on the said project with the thrust of encouraging the practice of waste segregation as
well as recycling among Cebuanos.

2
 In Saint Theresa’s College of Cebu, many plants especially vegetables are being grown in the
gardens and most of which need to be fertilized. Since commercial fertilizers are technically
expensive, the administrators or the caretakers of the gardens will be able to utilize a much
affordable, safer and healthier fertilizer for their plants. Minimization of food wastes specifically
from the onionskins, which are used by some concessionaires for their food products, will be
promoted as well. Through this, the school’s vision of having a green campus will be further
strengthened.

 Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine the effectivity of onion peelings extract as an alternative to liquid
commercial fertilizer for plants. Specifically, this study tries to answer the following questions:

What is the difference of the effect the liquid fertilizer from onion peelings extract from the liquid
commercial fertilizer to the growth of pechay in terms of:

a)height of the plant

b.)number of leaves

c.)leaf surface area

 Formulation of the Hypothesis

Null:Onion peelings extract is not an effective alternative to liquid commercial fertilizer for pechay
because there is no significant difference to the growth of pechay in terms of the height of the
plant, number of leaves and leaf surface area.

3
 Significance of the Study

This study will benefit the following:

 People

The outcome of the experiment will help people specifically, farmers, growers, and consumers
in many ways. Firstly, they will be able to grow and produce healthy plants by using inexpensive
and organic fertilizer. Some of the advantages that the product may bring to their plants are
boosting both nutrient efficiency and organic matter content of the soil, improving the efficiency
of nutrient use to produce robust crops and restoring soil fertility to nurture plant growth.
Secondly, the organic-based fertilizer industry generates local employment opportunities and
regional economic development across both rural and urban areas, fostering more productive
cultures of manufacturing and farming. Since fertilizer use is responsible for 40-60 percent of
the food supply, it has a great deal of responsibility in meeting world food demand.

 STC Community

The materials that compose organic-based fertilizers, the beneficial natural processes they
generate, and how they are produced contribute to a sustainable, resource-efficient and low-
carbon economy in which the STC community is committed to building. With the usage of
homemade and natural materials such as the study suggests, the community finds a safer and
convenient way of fertilizing their various plants. The STC community will also ingest the
nutritive value of the extract applied in their plants such as vegetables and fruits. Additionally,
the community can also reduce the cost of purchasing commercial fertilizers from the market.
The fertilizer industry is in the business of saving lives, saving the soil and raising the communal
level of human nutrition and health.

4
 Environment

It has been known that chemical fertilizers are hard on the environment. Many of which are
synthesized from oil, their production requires significant investment in fossil fuels, and they can
cause further problems when they spill off into streams or lakes. Encouraged by agricultural run-
off, algae blooms will consume oxygen required by fish and other organisms. Whereas, organic
fertilizers, far from purifying and simplifying chemicals, are complex compounds that
incorporate various secondary and micronutrients beyond the one or two for which they are
best known. Organics just like the components of the products, such as manures, powdered
rocks, wood ash, compost and the like, all contain essential micronutrients, and their
composition can improve the quality of the soil rather than degrade it. Thus, to say that organic
fertilizers can’t damage plants or the environment would be stretching things.

 Students/Future Researchers

The results derived from the experiment will help them be fully aware of a natural alternative in
fertilizing plants. They will be motivated to inform others, especially those who need fertilizers
about the product. Moreso, they will be challenged to foster new ideas in providing an organic
alternative to commercial fertilizers to supplement plants with required elements that are found
naturally in soil. The results may also inspire them to conduct further studies about the potential
of bio-waste as fertilizers and share their findings to the community to solve environmental
problems such as solid waste problems and preservation of plants.

5
 Scopes and Limitations of the Study

The researchers conduct the study at St.Theresa’s College of Cebu to have a proper observance
of the product. The scope of the research is to produce an alternative liquid fertilizer for plants using
onion peelings extract. The researchers use the experimental method of research. The researchers use
pechay seeds for the experiment. The study is done through preparing three set-ups where a
commercial fertilizer is applied to the first set-up, liquid fertilizer from onion peelings extract is fed to
the plants on the second set-up and the last set-up is not fed with any fertilizer since it is the control
group. The preparation of the set-ups needs 3 clay pots with the same height, loose soil,9 pechay seeds
and measuring cups. The same amount of soil is placed in both pots and the same amount of
water(300ml) is applied to all set-ups. Three pechay seeds are placed in each pot and they were given a
week to germinate. The mean height and number of leaves of the plants in each set-up were recorded
after a week when they were planted , before the plants in pot A and pot B were fertilized. The materials
used in creating the final product are 3 onion bulbs, pitcher,1 empty plastic bottle and water. The
pitcher is filled with 1-liter water. The skins of the three onions are taken off and placed inside the
pitcher which are soaked for the next 24 hours. The peeled onions are set aside. After a day, the onion
skins and the extract is separated by being strained into an empty 1.5L plastic bottle. To prepare the
commercial fertilizer, an empty plastic bottle is filled with 1-liter water. In the plastic bottle,4
tablespoons of granules of complete fertilizer are poured and it is left for 24 hours. The pechay seeds are
given a week to germinate before they are fertilized. The finished product is applied to pot B once a
week while the commercial fertilizer is applied to pot A once a week as well. The set-ups are watered
with 300 ml of water every day except for the plants in pot A and pot B on Fridays since they are fed
with 250 ml of fertilizer and only receive 50 ml of water. After 1 week, observations on the growth of the
plants such as plant height and number of leaves on each plant are recorded.The researchers took
pictures weekly to document its growth.The set-ups are observed for 19 days.On the last day of the
experiment, the leaf surface area of the plants is measured. Technically, the study was limited to
families, individuals, and farmers who cannot afford to buy commercial fertilizer.

6
 Definition of terms
 Antioxidant-a substance such as beta-carotene or vitamin C that inhibits oxidation or reactions
promoted by oxygen, peroxides, or free radicals.
 Calcium-a metallic chemical element of the alkaline-earth group that occurs naturally only in
combination and is essential to cellular functions in all known organisms.
 Compost- a mixture that consists largely of decayed organic matter and is used for fertilizing and
conditioning land.
 Copper- essential to the growth of plants , plays a part in several enzyme processes and is key to
the formation of chlorophyll.
 Disease Resistance- the ability of some organisms to withstand the attack of pathogens and
remain virtually unaffected. This most often involves innate immunity whereby the organism
generically responds to pathogens.. The is used most frequently when referring to plants.
 Fertilizer- a substance such as manure or a chemical mixture used to make soil more fertile.
 Iron- involved when a plant produces chlorophyll, which gives the plant oxygen as well as its
healthy green color
 Magnesium- micronutrient that is required by plants to produce chlorophyll
 Organic- involving the use of food produced with the use of feed or fertilizer of plant or animal
origin without employment of chemically formulated fertilizers, growth stimulants, antibiotics,
or pesticides
 Potassium-chemical element of atomic number 19, a soft silvery-white reactive metal of the
alkali metal group.It is an essential plant nutrient and is required in large amounts for proper
growth and reproduction of plants
 Quercetin- a yellow crystalline pigment present in plants, used as a food supplement to reduce
allergic responses or boost immunity.
 Sulfur- a nonmetallic chemical element that is an essential element for all life, resembles oxygen
in chemical properties, and is used especially in the form of sulfuric acid to extract phosphorus
from ores.
 Commercial fertilizer- a manufactured chemical mixture prepared for use as fertilizer as
distinguished from such natural substances as farm manures.

7
 Trichoderma- a form genus of imperfect fungi of the family Moniliaceae having non septate
conidia borne in heads on 2-branched or 3-branched conidiophores.
 Nitrogen- major component of chlorophyll, the compound by which plants use sunlight energy
to produce sugars from water and carbon dioxide (i.e., photosynthesis)
 Phosphorus- plays a role in photosynthesis, respiration, energy storage and transfer, cell
division, cell enlargement and several other processes in plants
 Chemical fertilizers - any inorganic material of wholly or partially synthetic origin that is added to
the soil to sustain plant growth.

8
 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

 Related Literature

The onion (Allium cepa L.) otherwise referred to as the bulb onion or common onion and locally
known as "sibuyas" is a vegetable that is the most commonly cultivated species of the genus Allium. Its
close relatives include garlic, shallot, leek, chive, and Chinese onion. Since the wild onion is extinct and
ancient records of the use of onions span western and eastern Asia, the geographical origin of the onion
is uncertain.

As per the Department of Agriculture's 2012 journal entitled "Onion Production Guide," the
onion is probably the most important culinary ingredient in favorite seasoning in the Philippines due to
its pungent aroma and sharp taste, suitable for spicing up meat, salads and vegetable dishes. Onions
differ in size, shape, color, and taste. The most well-known types of onions are red, yellow, and white.
There are two types of bulb onions developed in the Philippines; yellow and red. While chopping onions
cause watery eyes, onions can also give potential medical advantages such as reducing the risk of
several types of cancer, improving mood, and maintaining skin and hair health. Additionally, It is also
used to cure various physiological disorders such as cough, obesity, insomnia, hemorrhoids, and
constipation.

The vegetable’s abundance in potassium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, fluorine,
iodine, natural acids, nitrogenous substances, nutrients, gelatins, saponins, flavonoids doesn’t only
benefit the human body but also affect the growth and development of indoor and outdoor crops. It
should be noted that the six essential nutrients from the soil that plants need to fully develop are
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, and calcium(“How to Use Onion Peels as
Fertilizer,”2014).

Onions, especially the red ones, are known to have a rich source of flavonoids, particularly
quercetin, a potent antioxidant. Since it is demonstrated that quercetin has an antioxidant,
immunostimulating, anti-inflammatory, regenerative, anti-allergic, tumor and cardioprotective
properties, it can strengthen the root system of plants, providing them sufficient nutrition. The onion

9
peels can be made into an organic liquid fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, potassium, calcium, iron,
magnesium, and copper. Moreover, using it will increase their disease resistance, growth, strong stems,
and productivity. The skins or peelings of onions acting as a “waste” product after preparing the
vegetable/s for cooking significantly improves the soil’s structure and prevent pests. The onion peel
contains substances that destroy pathogenic microorganisms(“8 Onion Skin Uses You Wish to Knew
Before!,”2019).

A fertilizer is a chemical or natural substance that is applied to soil or plant tissues to supply
plant nutrients essential to the growth of plants. As stated by the International Rice Research Institute
(2009), organic fertilizers have natural origins of either plant or animal, while inorganic is produced
through synthetic procedures or originated from minerals. The fundamental components of fertilizers
are nitrogen and phosphorus. Fertilizers can make crops grow faster and bigger so that yields are
increased. The compounds used must be water-soluble so plants can absorb them through their roots.

Organic fertilizers comprise a variety of plant-derived materials that range from fresh or dried
plant material to animal manures and litters to agricultural by-products(“Organic Fertilizers,”2015).
Liquid organic fertilizer consists of nutrients that can enrich the soil and plants. These fertilizers are
beneficial to many factors in our ecosystem. They benefit the environment as they are renewable,
biodegradable, sustainable, and eco-friendly. There is no risk of toxic build-ups of chemicals as they are
made from natural elements and ingredients. Commercial fertilizers that are found in the market may
have a higher price point.

 Related Studies
A study entitled “Liquid Organic Fertilizers for Sustainable Agriculture: Nutrient
Uptake of Organic versus Mineral Fertilizers in Citrus Trees” was conducted by the researchers namely
Belén Martínez-Alcántara, Mary-Rus Martínez-Cuenca, Almudena Bermejo, Francisco Legaz and Ana
Quiñones in the Valencian Institute of Agricultural Research in Moncada. The study aimed to compare
the performance of two liquid organic fertilizers, an animal and a plant-based fertilizer, with mineral
fertilization on citrus trees. Both fertilizer sources had a substantial impact on the organic and
conventionally controlled mandarins ' nutritional status. The nutrient uptake, vegetative growth,
carbohydrate synthesis, and soil characteristics were analyzed. After that, results showed that plants

10
fertilized with liquid fertilizers based on animals displayed higher total biomass with a more profuse
development of new organs such as leaves and fibrous roots.

Liquid organic fertilization has resulted in increased macro and micronutrient absorption as
opposed to fertilized mineral trees. Moreover, organic fertilization positively affected the carbohydrate
content mainly in summer flush leaves. Liquid organic fertilization also increased the content of organic
soil matter. Due to inherent composition, animal-based fertilizer increased the amount of total tree
biomass and carbohydrate leaves, leading to reduced concentrations of soil nitrate and higher
exchangeable P and Mg in soil extract compared to fertilizer based on vegetables. The researchers
concluded that liquid organic fertilizers can be used effectively as a replacement for mineral fertilizers
under drip irrigation in citrus trees as they enhance soil chemical fertility, prevent excessive
concentration of Nitrate-N, encourage plant growth and fixation of carbon in the plant. Moreover, these
fertilizers would allow not only to reduce the use of chemicals but also to re-use crop residues and
animal manure, conferring them an added value. Thus, the research proves that liquid organic fertilizers
can have the same effect as commercial fertilizers but with a lesser cost and has benefits to the
community and the environment.

Pellejero, Miglierina, Aschkar, Turcato, and Jime´nez-Ballesta (2017) has proven the onion‘s
capability of being an organic fertilizer through their a research entitled: “Effects of the onion residue
compost as an organic fertilizer in a vegetable culture in the Lower Valley of the Rio Negro.” Productions
in the said place have significantly increased in recent years, causing soil degradation and declining
organic matter content. This fact alone needs recovery measures to improve the quality. The experiment
was in a completely randomized design that involved five treatments and one control where they had
ten copies of each one and where they had onion residue compost as an organic fertilizer.

It was shown in their conclusion that the organic fertilizer has produced the highest fresh
weights and the total weight of vegetables, recommending the use of doses 6kg m-2 while the dose of
8kg m-2 could replace the use of chemical fertilizer. Also, in the end, the highest N, P and K contents in
lettuce leaves were observed in the urea treatments and the highest compost dosages, meanwhile, the
highest compost dosages could replace chemical fertilization with satisfactory results. The onion peels
had a satisfactory output when it was used as an organic fertilizer in the farm due to its appropriate
amount of nutrients to help sustain, grow and strengthen the plants.

11
 Mayur Dattatray Khairnar and Sagar Sreekumar Nair from the Department of Mechanical
Engineering at the University of Mumbai, India also had a study entitled: “Study on Eggshell and Fruit
Peels as a Fertilizer. “The present study focuses on the use of eggshell and fruit peels for the plant's
effective growth. The amount of eggshell powder, sweet lime powder and banana peel powder needed
for a specific soil was controlled by experimenting with eggshell and fruit peel formulation for pH
assessment. The aim of the paper is to use CHNS Analyzer to research and analyze the content of carbon
(C), nitrogen (N) and hydrogen (H) from eggshell powder and fruit peels.

The final result of this study showed that Sweet lime peel powder has a higher percentage of
nitrogen (1.197 percent in 2.114 mg) and carbon (38.053 percent in 2.114 mg), while Banana peel
powder has a higher percentage of hydrogen (6.153 percent in 2.256 mg) compared to the remaining
samples. This experimental study shows that it is possible to use eggshell powder and fruit peel powder
as fertilizer without cost bearing as this eggshell and fruit peels are obtained from household waste.

12
 CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY

The Procedure
1.)Materials and Equipment
● Loose Soil- this is where the pechay seeds are planted.This kind of soil allows water to drain
freely, preventing waterlogged soil while supplying the air and nutrients plant roots need to
thrive thus making it suitable for plant growth.
● Complete fertilizer (14-14-14) as the commercial fertilizer- this is applied to pot A and its effects
on the plant’s growth are compared with the onion peel fertilizer and the plants in the control
group.
● 9 pechay seeds-the seeds are planted into three different pots.Six seedlings are fed with a
complete fertilizer and onion peel fertilizer respectively while three seeds are not fed with any
fertilizer. The growth of these seeds is measured to compare the effects of the two kinds of
fertilizers and the plants in the control group.
● 3 onions-the main ingredient of the product. The peels of the onion are removed and soaked in
water for 24 hours.The extract from the peels is used as the liquid fertilizer.
● Three clay pots (7-inches)-this is where the seeds are planted for further examination.
● 3 plant saucers- this is used to catch excess water that drains from a container planting.
● 1 Pitcher(1L)-this where the onion peels mixed with 1L water are placed and left for 24 hours.
● 2 Empty plastic bottles (1.5 Liter)-these are the containers for the onion peel extract and
complete fertilizer.
● 1L of water-this is poured in the pitcher to be mixed with the onion peels and also poured in a
plastic bottle for the dilution of the complete fertilizer.
● Measuring cups-used to measure the amount of water that is poured into the plants and the
amount of complete fertilizer and onion peelings extract fertilizer to be applied.
● Funnel/strainer-this is used to separate the onion peels from the onion peels extract.The extract
is then placed in an empty plastic bottle.
● Ruler-used to measure the plant's height.
● Graphing paper,pencil and marker- these tools are for measuring the leaf surface area of the
plants.
● Phone- this is for documentation purposes.

13
2.)Procedures
A.Preparation of the Set-up
1. First, prepare the necessary materials such as loose soil, three clay pots,9 pechay seeds
and measuring cups.
2. Place the same amount of loose soil in all pots with the same height.
3. Label pot A as “commercial fertilizer,” pot B as “onion peelings extract fertilizer” and pot
C as “no fertilizer.”
4. After this, plant 3 pechay seeds in each pot. There should be a spacing of 5 cm between
the seeds. Cover the seeds to a depth of about 1 cm by spreading additional soil.
5. Then, place the pots in an area where there are enough sunlight and air for the pechay
seeds to germinate.
6. Pour three-hundred milliliters of water onto the pots.

B. Formulation of the Product

1. To make the product of the experiment, prepare the things needed such as 3 onion
bulbs, pitcher, empty plastic bottle and tap water.
2. Pour 1 liter of water in the pitcher.
3. Take off skins of three onions and placed them inside the pitcher to be soaked for the
next 24 hours.
4. Set aside the peeled onions.
5. After one day, separate the onion peels from the extract by straining into an empty 1L
plastic bottle. The finished product is now ready.

C.Formulation of the Commercial Fertilizer

1. Prepare an empty plastic bottle (1.5L) and fill it with 1-liter water.
2. Pour four tablespoons of granules of complete fertilizer in the plastic bottle.
3. Let it sit for 24 hours.
4. After 24 hours, shake the plastic bottle to completely dissolve the liquid fertilizer.

14
D.General Procedures
1. Pour 300 ml of water to all set-ups every day in the morning except on Fridays since 250
ml of commercial fertilizer will be applied to pot A and 250 ml of onion peelings extract
fertilizer will be applied to pot B. On Fridays, the plants in pot A and B will only receive
50 ml of water.
2. After one week when the seeds germinate, the complete fertilizer and fertilizer from
onion peelings extract is applied to pot A and pot B respectively once a week.

E.Testing Process
1. The testing process or observation is done the moment the seeds germinate.
2. Measure and observe the plant height and number of leaves of the plants from each
set-up every day while the surface area of the leaves is measured on the last day of the
experiment.
3. In measuring the plant height, a ruler is used.Measure the plant from its base to its
highest point or the highest leaf.After which, compute for the mean height of the three
plants of each set-up.
4. In measuring the number of leaves, count and record the number of leaves on each
plant, every visible leaf on the plant, including the tips of new leaves that are just
beginning to emerge.
5. On the last day of the experiment, measure the surface area of leaves by tracing the
leaves on a graphing paper and counting the whole squares and half squares covered to
give an estimate of the surface area for each leaf. Squares which included part of the
leaf surface were added up then divided by two since only part of the surface was
included within the square. Choose the three largest leaves per plant and compute for
their mean leaf surface area to compare the surface area of the leaves from all set-ups.

15
 CHAPTER IV
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

This chapter was about the presentation of data needed to support the study. It showed the
observations made by the researchers to justify the problem and subproblems they stated.The data
shown below were closely monitored to make sure that the results are accurate. Four tables with
corresponding interpretation and graphs were presented; namely the mean height and the total number
of leaves of the three plants in each pot before and after fertilization; and the mean leaf surface area of
the plants on the last day of observation from the different set-ups.

Table 1: Mean Height and Total Number of Leaves Before Fertilization

COMMERCIAL ONION PEELINGS NO FERTILIZER

FERTILIZER EXTRACT FERTILIZER

Mean height 2.67 cm 2.67 cm 2.67 cm

Total number of leaves 6 6 6

Table 1 showed that the mean height and the total number of leaves of the three plants in each
set-up are the same after one week when these were first planted. This was also before the
corresponding fertilizers were applied in the appropriate set-ups. This was recorded on February 7,
2020, on a Friday.

Total
Mean
Number
Height
of in
Leaves
cm ofofPlants
PlantsBefore
BeforeFertilization
Fertilization

73
2.67 2.67 2.67
6
2.5 Commercial
Commercial
5 Fertilizer
Fertilizer
HeightofinLeaves

2
cm

4
1.5 Onion
Onion
3 Peelings
Peelings
Number

Extract
Extract
1 Fertilizer
Fertilizer
2
0.5
1 No No
Fertilizer
Fertilizer
00
February
February7,2020
7 ,2020

16
 Table 2: Mean Height of Plants After Fertilization

DATE COMMERCIAL FERTILIZER ONION PEELINGS NO FERTILIZER

EXTRACT FERTILIZER

Feb.10,2020 2.67 cm 2.67 cm 2.67 cm

Feb.11,2020 2.67 cm 2.73 cm 2.67 cm

Feb.12,2020 2.67 cm 2.97 cm 2.87 cm

Feb.13,2020 2.67 cm 3.00 cm 2.97 cm

Feb.14,2020 2.67 cm 3.20 cm 3.10 cm

Feb.17,2020 N/A 3.57 cm 3.57 cm

Feb.18,2020 N/A 3.83 cm 3.80 cm

Feb.19,2020 N/A 4.37 cm 4.03 cm

Feb.20,2020 N/A 5.10 cm 4.60 cm

Feb.21,2020 N/A 5.43 cm 4.77 cm

Feb.24.2020 N/A 5.67 cm 5.00 cm

Feb.26,2020 N/A 6.17 cm 5.33 cm

Feb.27,2020 N/A 6.23 cm 5.73 cm

Feb.28,2020 N/A 6.53 cm 6.27 cm

Feb.29,2020 N/A 7.03 cm 6.60 cm

March 3,2020 N/A 7.57 cm 7.47 cm

March 4,2020 N/A 8.17 cm 7.90 cm

March 5,2020 N/A 9.00 cm 8.13 cm

March 6,2020 N/A 9.10 cm 8.17 cm

Table 2 showed that the pechay plants containing the researchers’ onion peelings extract
fertilizer has shown big progress, specifically in the plant’s height. However, the mean height of the

17
plants in all set-ups was equal on February 10.The mean height of the plants containing the product and
experimental group was equal on February 17, but the mean height of the plants in the experimental
group was higher than the height of the plants in the control group by 0.03 cm on the next day. There is
a difference of 0.93 centimeters between the pechay plants with onion peelings extract fertilizer and the
pechay plants without the product, in the last recorded data, which was the 19th day of observation for
both set-ups. This measurement is the highest difference between the mean heights of the plants in
both set-ups. Two of the plants with the commercial fertilizer have died on the 6th day and the
remaining pechay plant died 8 days after the observation started. Thus, the onion peelings extract is
effective in boosting and affecting the height of pechay plants. It can also be an alternative to liquid
commercial fertilizer since it doesn’t harm the plants even if applied in a large amount such as 250 ml
compared to the liquid commercial fertilizer.

Mean Height in cm of Plants After Fertilization

10

6
Height in cm

5 Commercial Fertilizer
Onion Peelings Extract Fertilizer
4 No Fertilizer
3

0
10

12

14

18

20

24

27

29

.4

.6
ar

ar
b.

b.

b.

b.

b.

b.

b.

b.

M
Fe

Fe

Fe

Fe

Fe

Fe

Fe

Fe

Date

Table 3: Total Number of Leaves of the Three Plants in Each Pot After Fertilization

DATE COMMERCIAL ONION PEELINGS NO FERTILIZER

18
 FERTILIZER EXTRACT FERTILIZER

Feb.10,2020 8 8 7

Feb.11,2020 8 8 8

Feb.12,2020 8 9 8

Feb.13,2020 10 10 10

Feb.14,2020 10 12 10

Feb.17,2020 4 14 12

Feb.18,2020 2 14 12

Feb.19,2020 0 15 12

Feb.20,2020 0 15 12

Feb.21,2020 0 17 15

Feb.24.2020 0 18 16

Feb.26,2020 0 20 17

Feb.27,2020 0 21 17

Feb.28,2020 0 21 17

Feb.29,2020 0 22 18

March 3,2020 0 22 20

March 4,2020 0 23 20

March 5,2020 0 23 20

March 6,2020 0 23 20

Table 3 showed the total number of leaves that appeared on each plant within each pot during
the observation period. The total number of leaves in all set-ups was equal on February 11 and 13.
However, the pechay plants grown with the onion peelings extract fertilizer consistently had more
leaves compared to the pechay plants grown without the product. There is a difference of 3 leaves
between the pechay plants with onion peelings extract fertilizer and the pechay plants without the

19
product, in the last recorded data. The only exceptions were the plants grown with the commercial
fertilizer that unfortunately died during the observation period. Therefore, the researchers have
concluded that the extract is effective in increasing the number of leaves of pechay plants.

Total Number of Leaves of the Three Plants in Each Set-up After Fertilization
25

20

Commercia
l Fertilizer
15
Number of leaves

Onion
Peelings
Extract
Fertilizer
10
No
Fertilizer

0
10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 26 27 28 29 .3 .4 .5 .6
eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. eb. Mar Mar Mar Mar
F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F
Date

Table 5:Mean Leaf Surface Area of Plants After Fertilization

Commercial Fertilizer Onion Peelings Extract Fertilizer No Fertilizer

Plant A Plant B Plant C Plant A Plant B Plant C Plant A Plant B Plant C

20
 N/A 19.46cm² 11.13cm² 13.71cm² 6.92cm² 9.88cm² 6.58cm²
Table 5 showed that there is a significant difference between the leaf surface area of the plants
grown with peelings extract fertilizer from the plants grown without fertilizer. The mean leaf surface
area of the three largest leaves of each plant from the experimental group was larger compared to the
leaf surface area of the three largest leaves of each plant in the control group. The mean leaf surface
area of plant A grown with the extract fertilizer was greater than the mean leaf surface area of plant A
grown without fertilizer by 12.54 cm². The mean leaf surface area of plant B grown with the extract
fertilizer was larger than the mean leaf surface area of plant B grown without fertilizer by 1.25 cm². The
mean leaf surface area of plant C grown with the extract fertilizer was larger than the mean leaf surface
area of plant C grown without fertilizer by 7.13 cm². There were no records for the plants grown with
the commercial fertilizer since they unfortunately died during the observation period. Therefore, the
onion peelings extract fertilizer was concluded to be effective in increasing the leaf surface area of
pechay .

Mean Leaf Surface Area in cm2 of Plants After Fertilization

30

25
6.92
20 No Fertilizer
Surface Area(cm2)

6.58 Onion Peelings Extract

9.88
15 Fertilizer

Commercial Fertilizer
10 19.46
13.71
5 11.13

0
Plant A Plant B Plant C

RESULTS
Based on the data and graphs that the researchers have given, the onion peelings extract was
very effective and very functional in terms of the growth and development of the pechay plant. In terms
of the height of the plants, the mean heights of the pechay plants with the onion peelings extract
fertilizer showed that they were taller compared to the pechay plants grown without the fertilizer. Also,

21
in terms of the number of leaves grown by the pechay plants, the plants with the extract fertilizer had
more leaves compared to the plants in the control group. The mean leaf surface area of the three largest
leaves of each plant from the experimental group was larger compared to the mean leaf surface area of
the three largest leaves of each plant in the control group.Some days after the observation process
started, the plants being fed with commercial fertilizer died. Thus, the researchers failed to see the
difference between the extract fertilizer from commercial fertilizer. However, the product was
concluded to be an effective alternative to liquid commercial fertilizer since it doesn’t harm the plants
even if these were applied with large amounts.Also, it is much convenient and easier to apply than the
complete fertilizer. Nonetheless, these results show that onion peelings extract fertilizer was effective in
growing taller plants with more number of leaves and that have larger leaf surface area which means
that the researchers reject their hypothesis as it stated that the plant grown with fertilizer has no
significant difference to the growth of pechay in terms of height, number of leaves and leaf surface area
to the plant grown without and with the commercial fertilizer. According to the results from the
experiment, the pechay plants grown with fertilizer displayed a significant difference from the plants in
the control group. This means higher yield and more possible food consumption for the community that
uses this fertilizer.Additionally, it showed that this fertilizer can grow plants with good quality in a safe
way where it is free from chemicals since multiple crops are being grown full of toxic chemicals from the
fertilizer they utilize nowadays.

CHAPTER V
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Summary
The researchers aimed to find out the effectiveness of onion peelings extract as an alternative to
commercial fertilizer for pechay. The effects of the product that were focused on were the height of the

22
plant, the number of leaves, and the leaf surface area.The researchers used the extract of onion peelings
as an alternative to the commercial fertilizer farmers and gardeners would usually use. Three pechay
seeds were planted in the three pots.The seeds were given a week to germinate before the plants in pot
A and pot B were fertilized. The mean height and the total number of leaves of the plants in each set-up
were recorded before the application of the corresponding fertilizers. The records showed that the
mean height and the total number of leaves of the three plants in each set-up are the same after one
week when these were planted. The researchers prepared the extract by peeling the onions they had,
submerged it in a pitcher filled with 1 liter of water for 24 hours. The researchers also prepared the
commercial fertilizer by pouring 4 tablespoons of granules of complete fertilizer to an empty plastic
bottle filled with 1liter of water.After a day,both fertilizers were now ready to be applied. Every day, all
three set-ups were watered with 300 ml except for the plants in pot A and B on Fridays which only
received 50 ml of water since they will be fed with 250 ml of liquid commercial fertilizer and extract
fertilizer.The researchers recorded the necessary data such as the height and number of leaves of the
plants in all set-ups every day. The outcome of their experiment was able to give them great results.

The plants which the researchers placed the onion peeling extract with ,showed that their mean
heights were taller compared to the pechay plants grown without the fertilizer.The pechay plants grown
with the onion peelings extract fertilizer had more leaves compared to the pechay plants grown without
the product. Also, the mean leaf surface area of each plant fed with the extract fertilizer was larger
compared to the leaf surface area of the plants in the control group. The researchers had found out that
the extract fertilizer did affect the height, the number of leaves and leaf surface area of the pechay.
Along the testing process, the plants fed with commercial fertilizer had withered and died. Although the
researchers weren’t able to see the difference of the extract fertilizer with the commercial fertilizer due
to the deaths of the plants applied with the commercial fertilizer, they were able to discover that the
product has made a significant difference to the plants applied with it than to the plants without
fertilizer and that it was an effective alternative to liquid commercial fertilizer since the plants weren’t
harmed given that the same amount of fertilizers were fed to the group of plants in both set-ups.
Conclusion
The researchers have concluded that the onion peel fertilizer has been effective in the growth of
the pechay plants. Based on the results, the onion peel fertilizer has shown how the height of the plant
has greatly increased, the number of leaves is more than the one without fertilizer and the surface area
of the leaves are greater. The fertilizer showed a major impact on the pechay plant. This proves that the

23
initial hypothesis of the researchers was false. The onion peel fertilizer has shown a significant
difference in the growth of pechay in terms of height, the number of leaves, and leaf surface area. Using
this fertilizer benefits the plants as it is all-natural and has no chemicals that may harm or poison the
plant in any way.

Recommendations
 Always soak the onion peelings with water to let the plant absorb more the effect of the peels.
Soak it until the water turns violet after a day.
 Avoid using too much commercial fertilizer such as complete fertilizer. According
to homeguides.com, too much NPK fertilizer can kill your plants, which can cause imbalances in
soil pH and fertility. When the concentration of dissolved solids rises continuously from the soil
around the roots to the core of the root, this causes water to flow into the plant. When the
pressure around the roots gets too high, the flow of water reverses causing the plants to burn.
 Long term experiment is necessary to show the effect that the researchers like such as its fresh
and dry weight, root mass, how it improves the quality of soil and the like
 Make the onion peelings extract fertilizer more available and accessible in households
 When conducting the same experiment, make sure the measurements during the testing
process are accurate 
 Conduct more experiments on other organic sources for organic fertilizers especially for
students
 Conduct further studies and inquiries on the proper usage of commercial fertilizers to
successfully observe its effects on plants especially for researchers 
 Using an all-natural fertilizer is better as it has no chemicals containing in it and it can produce
plants with high quality
 This product is highly commendable as it is not only an asset to individuals but also to the
environment since it greatly helps in the minimization of waste products. Thus, there will be
lesser waste ending up in landfills and lesser effects of soil pollution.
BIBLIOGRAPHY

I. Blevins, R., & Frye, W. (2015). Liquid fertilizers. Retrieved March 10, 2020, from
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/liquid-fertilizers

24
 II. Cebu city solid waste management project (n.d.). Retrieved March 10, 2020, from
https://ppp.gov.ph/ppp_projects/cebu-city-solid-waste-management-project/
III. Department of Agriculture. (n.d). Onion production guide. Retrieved from March 10,2020
from https://rfo02.da.gov.ph
IV. Jimenez, E., Mariano, J., Ferrer, M., & De Leon, V. (n.d.). Pechay production guide.
Retrieved March 9, 2020, from
http://bpi.da.gov.ph/bpi/images/Production_guide/pdf/PECHAY%20.pdf
V. Martínez-Alcántara, B., Martínez-Cuenca, M., Bermejo, A., Legaz, F., & Quiñones, A.
(2016, October 20). Liquid organic fertilizers for sustainable agriculture: nutrient uptake of
organic versus mineral fertilizers in citrus trees. Retrieved March 09, 2020, from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5072554/
VI. Nath, P. (2015). Families, farms, food: sustaining small-scale. Retrieved March 09, 2020,
from https://fdocuments.in/document/seaveg2014-families-farms-food-sustaining-small-
scale-.html
VII. Organic fertilizer market in Philippines, fertilizer industry analysis. (2018, November 23).
Retrieved March 09, 2020, from https://fertilizer-machinery.com/solution/organic-fertilizer-
market-analysis-in-phi.html
VIII. Organic fertilizers market : global demand analysis & opportunity outlook 2024. (n.d.).
Retrieved from March 10,2020,from https://www.researchnester.com/reports/organic-
fertilizers-market-global-demand-analysis-opportunity-outlook-2024/446
IX. Pellejero, G., Miglierina, A., Aschkar, G., Turcato, M., & Jiménez-Ballesta, R. (2017). Effects of
the onion residue compost as an organic fertilizer in a vegetable culture in the Lower Valley
of the Rio Negro. International Journal Of Recycling Of Organic Waste In Agriculture, 6(2),
159-166. doi: 10.1007/s40093-017-0164-8
X. Villarete, N. (n.d). Solid waste management in Cebu city. Retrieved March 10,2020 , from
https://kitakyushu.iges.or.jp/docs/mtgs/seminars/theme/swm/presentation/3%20Cebu
%20(Paper).pdf
XI. Sanchez, M. (2020). Philippines: onion production. Retrieved March 10, 2020, from
https://www.statista.com/statistics/752167/philippines-onion-production/#:~:text=In
%202018%2C%20the%20production%20volume,about%206.7%20billion%20Philippine
%20pesos.

25
 XII. Choi, I., Moon, J., Cho, E., & Bae, H. (2020). Onion skin waste as a valorization resource for
the by-products quercetin and biosugar. Retrieved March 10, 2020, from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/276545280_Onion_skin_waste_as_a_valorizatio
n_resource_for_the_by-products_quercetin_and_biosugar
XIII. Shetty,P.K.,Alvares,C.,& Yadav,A.K. (2014).Organic Farming and Sustainability. Retrieved
March 10,2020, from http://eprints.nias.res.in/755/1/2014-SP5-Organic%20Farming%20and
%20Sustanability.pdf
XIV. Ellorin, B. (2014, April 22). Discarded veggies, fruits end up as 100% eco-friendly fertilizer.
Retrieved March 09,2020, from https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/27641/discarded-
veggies-fruits-end-up-as-100-eco-friendly-fertilizer
XV. How to use onion peels as fertilizer. (2014, August). Retrieved March 09, 2020, from
https://eng.kakprosto.ru/how-892165-how-to-use-onion-peels-as-fertilizer
XVI. Tip: Fertilizing Seedlings: Gardener's Supply. (2018, August). Retrieved March 10,2020 from
https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/tip-fertilizing-seedlings/5419.html
XVII. Affeld, M. (2018, December 14). Advantages & disadvantages of natural & chemical
fertlilzers. Retrieved March 09, 2020, from https://homeguides.sfgate.com/advantages-
disadvantages-natural-chemical-fertlilzers-30247.html
XVIII. Walliser, J. (2019, March 17). How and when to begin to fertilize seedlings. Retrieved March
09, 2020, from https://triblive.com/lifestyles/jessica-walliser-columns/how-and-when-to-
begin-to-fertilize-seedlings/
XIX. Khairnar, M., & Nair, S. (2019, May). Study on eggshell and fruit peels as a fertilizer.
Retrieved March 10, 2020, from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332878769_STUDY_ON_EGGSHELL_AND_FRUIT
_PEELS_AS_A_FERTILIZER
XX. Tip: fertilizing seedlings: gardener's supply. (2019, August 9). Retrieved March 09, 2020,
from https://www.gardeners.com/how-to/tip-fertilizing-seedlings/5419.html
XXI. KS, A. (2019, December 05). Onion peel fertilizer for home terrace vegetable garden.
Retrieved March 09, 2020, from https://www.organicadvices.com/onion-peel-fertilizer/
XXII. 8 Onion skin uses you wish to knew before! (2019, December 09). Retrieved March 09, 2020,
from https://balconygardenweb.com/onion-skin-uses-peel-benefits/
XXIII. Boeckmann, C. (2020, January 8). How to apply fertilizers to your garden. Retrieved March
09, 2020, from https://www.almanac.com/content/how-apply-fertilizers-your-garden

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 XXIV. Green, B. (2015). Liquid Fertilizers. Retrieved March 09, 2020, from
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/liquid-fertilizers
XXV. Liquid fertilizers. (2016). Retrieved March 09, 2020, from http://www.achema.lt/liquid-
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XXVI. Onion. (2020, February 14). Retrieved March 09, 2020, from
https://www.britannica.com/plant/onion-plant
XXVII. Organic Fertilizer. (2016). Retrieved March 09, 2020, from
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/organic-fertilizer
XXVIII. Making fertiliser. (2020). Retrieved 10 March 2020, from
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zxy9ng8/revision/1
XXIX. Measuring plant growth. (2020). Retrieved March 10 2020, from
https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/references/measuring-plant-growth
XXX. Surface Area of a Leaf Teacher. (2020). Retrieved March 10, 2020, from
http://sciencenetlinks.com/student-teacher-sheets/surface-area-leaf-teacher-sheet/

APPENDIX A
Documentations
Before:
I. Preparation of the Set-up

27
First, necessary materials such Second, pot A was labeled as After which, 3 pechay seeds
as loose soil, three clay pots, 6 “commercial fertilizer,” while were planted in each pot.
pechay seeds and measuring pot B was labeled as “onion There should be a spacing of 5
cups were prepared. The same peelings extract fertilizer,” and cm between the seeds.
amount of loose soil was pot C was labeled as “no
placed in all pots with the fertilizer”.
same height.

The seeds were covered to a Plant saucers were also placed Three-hundred milliliters of
depth of about 1 cm by under all the pots. The location of water was poured onto the
spreading additional soil. the pots kept changing during the pots.
first few weeks of the project due
to many factors such as proximity
and tampering by some people.
II. Formulation of the Product But this was the final location of
the set-up.

28
 To make the product, 1 liter of Skins of three onions were The skins were placed inside
water was poured in a 1L taken off. the pitcher and were soaked
pitcher. for the next 24 hours while the
peeled onions were set aside.

The water was strained into an The finished product was now
empty 1L plastic bottle in ready.
order to separate the onion
peels from the extract.

III. Formulation of the Commercial Fertilizer

To make the commercial Four 4 tablespoons of granules The commercial fertilizer was
fertilizer, 1 liter of water was of complete fertilizer were now ready.
poured in a 1.5L plastic bottle.
During: poured in the plastic bottle.It
I. Watering and Fertilization was then left for 24 hours.

29
 Everyday,all set-ups were poured with 300 ml of water except Every day, the height of the plants
on Fridays since pot A and pot B only received 50 ml of water were measured using a ruler and the
because they will be fed with 250 ml of the corresponding number of leaves were also counted.
fertilizer for their group. Hence, 300 ml of water was still
poured to the plants in the control group every Friday.

II. Differences of the plants over the weeks

30
First week after fertilization (from the left: Commercial Fertilizer, Onion Peelings Extract Fertilizer, No Fertilizer)

Second week after fertilization (from the left: Commercial Fertilizer, Onion Peelings Extract Fertilizer, No Fertilizer)

Third week after fertilization (from the left: Onion Peelings Extract Fertilizer, No Fertilizer)

Fourth week after fertilization (from the left: Onion Peelings Extract Fertilizer, No Fertilizer)

31
 After:

The three largest leaves of each three plants in each set-up were traced using a mechanical pencil and graphing
paper. After this, the leaf surface area of the three largest leaves of each three plant in both set-ups was solved
and the mean leaf surface area of the three largest leaves of each plant was also calculated.
APPENDIX B
Costing
Items Price
Pechay Seed Packet ₱50.00
3 Clay Pots ₱150.00
1 sack of loose soil ₱100.00
1 kg of Complete Fertilizer ₱30.00
3 large red onions ₱52.50
1L pitcher ₱85.00
2 plastic bottles(1.5L) ₱121.00
Plant Saucer

₱194.25
TOTAL COST: ₱782.75

32
RESEARCHERS’ PROFILE

Name:
Julianne Danielle S. Ding

Contributions:
 Abstract
 Introduction and Its Background
 Definition of Terms
 The Procedure
 Results
 Presentation,Analysis and Interpretation of Data
 Results
 Table of Contents
 Editing
Learning:
I have learned that coming up with a study for the science
investigatory project was never easy, more so when
making the research paper and conducting the
experiment. However, with perseverance, faith, and
determination, all the difficulties that we have faced in
making this project were surpassed. I have realized that I
greatly needed the help and ideas of my groupmates and
the support of other people such as my teacher and my
parents for me to successfully direct the project and do
what is expected of us. This project has reminded me that I
can’t taste the sweetness of victory without experiencing

Name:
Frances Gail K. Gurrea

Contributions:
 Scope and Limitations of the Study
33
 Related studies
 Summary
 Acknowledgement
Name:
Danielle Crystelle S. Pilapil

Contributions:
 Statement of the Problem
 Formulation of the Hypothesis
 Recommendation
 Bibliography

Learning:
I realized that you can always think out of
the box through making creative
experiments. I can say that these are a
really big help in our lives as this can
benefit many people. The science
investigatory project has taught me that
not every success starts with perfection
but it also begins with failures and trials .

34
Name:
Stephen Aizun D. Rosal

Contributions:
 Formulation of Hypothesis
 Statement of the Problem
 Presentation , Analysis and Interpretation of
Data
 Results

Learning:
When making the SIP there were a lot of
things to take in consideration especially
with the limited time. Time management as
well as keeping a cool head during moments
when certain issues happen are very
important. The process requires trial and
error along with extensive research to make
sure the experiment is a success which
requires a lot of effort but by doing so we
practice and learn different values that will

35
 Name: Caryl Joy F. Uy

Contributions:
 Significance of the Study
 Related Literature
 Conclusion
 Bibliography

Learning:
During the duration of the making of our
SIP, I learned that there is no limits in
making an SIP. You can come up with
innovative experiments with just using
ingredients or materials you can find at
home. SIP has also taught me that
teamwork makes the dream work. With
proper coordination with all your group
members, nothing seems impossible.

The researchers of the study entitled “The Effectivity of Onion (Allium Cepa)
Peelings Extract as an Alternative to Liquid Commercial Fertilizer for Pechay”

36