Participatory implementation of improving productivity and fruit quality of durian (Durio zibethinus) by enhanced fertilization in Southern Philippines

Farmer’s innovation of improving productivity of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr) trees by spraying goat urine was enhanced with combined application of fertilizers supplying boron and calcium. An experiment evaluating the efficacy of fermented goat urine combined with fertilizers supplying boron (20.5%) and calcium (34%) to improve productivity and postharvest quality of durian was conducted for two fruiting seasons. An 8-year-old durian trees in a farmer’s field at Bukidnon Province in Mindanao, Philippines were allowed to bear fruits for two seasons from March 2009 to June 2010. Foliar application of boron (20.5%) and fermented goat urine in combination with calcium (34%) significantly increased the number of fruits harvested per tree thus obtained the highest total yield and return of investment (ROI) per hectare during the two fruiting periods. Moreover, a significantly noticeable increased in percent edible portion was observed in fruits harvested from trees treated with boron (20.5%) applied singly or together with calcium (34%) and this was significantly enhanced with fermented goat urine application. Fruits from boron (20.5%) and fermented goat urine treatments have significantly high total soluble solids (TSS) with internal quality of fruits such as sweetness, aril flavor and overall quality increased compared to other treatments as evaluated by a taste panel.