Coconut fiber geo-textile net as shading material for anthurium

Abstract

Plastic net is commonly used as shading material for anthurium because it is readily available in the market though it is synthetic, expensive, and nonbiodegradable. Geo-textile net on the other hand, is a recycled waste product from coconut, used for erosion control and bio-engineering needs known for high strength, and bio-degradable and ornamental plant growers are interested to use this as natural shade for anthurium. In this paper we determine the effect of Coconut fiber geo-textile net as shading material for anthurium, by looking into its economic viability and anthurium life span vis-à-vis the effect of plastic net in the same environment. Baguio Red anthuriums were planted in plastic bags using chopped coconut husk as soil medium. Randomized Complete Block Design was used; it was replicated three times with 10 plants per treatment. Results show that the number of suckers, leaves and flowers produced, width of the flowers and the temperature received by the plants, are comparable when both materials were used, this inform us that geotextile can replace plastic net. However, the geo-textile net has lower return of investment (ROI) than plastic net. In terms of life span of the materials, the plastic net has longer life duration than the geo-textile net. This result may suggest to the horticulturist to use geo-textile net for the shade it offers is comparable to plastic net.