BIO-CONTROL OF CROP DISEASES
Many of our local plants contain helpful chemicals, particularly alkaloids, that are effective against fungal and bacterial diseases of other plants. Thus, they are mixed with the soil to control the fungus that causes the diseases of seedlings. Allow the leaves to decompose for about one week before transplanting the seedlings. Some of these leaves are as follows:
abaca leaves
chico
sampaloc
avocado
kakawate
sampaguita
alibangbang
garlic
orchid
santan-pula
acacia
datiles
santol
ampalaya
jackfruit
tanglad
atis
lanzones
eggplant
guavas
rimas
beans (red variety)
coconut
onions
chichirica
calamansi
ginger
upo
star-apple
papaya
sugarcane
cacao
malunggay
watermelon
cassava
cowpea
tobacco
calachuci
saluyot
Thus, using plant leaves in controlling disease-causing organisms is no doubt cheaper than pesticides and insecticides. It is also simpler and easier to apply by merely incorporating the leaves with soil during cultivation. When decomposed, the leaves release certain chemicals which prevents harmful bacteria and fungi from attacking the crops. Besides controlling diseases, the leaves also increase the organic
matter content of the soil, improving its structure and fertility.
Source: Philippine Farmers’ Journal June 1982