Arturo Braga, Author at Agriculture & Farming in the Philippines

Cape Gooseberry: The Golden Berry with Amazing Health Properties

Arturo Braga0 CommentsHealth & Nutrition

Cape gooseberry farming has grown in popularity as more people discover this unique fruit. The small golden berries wrapped in papery husks catch both the eye and the palate. With their sweet-tart flavor, they add interest to many dishes. Their nutritional profile impresses health enthusiasts worldwide. The plants grow well in various climates with proper care. Also known as Physalis peruviana, these berries originated in South America. They now grow in many tropical and subtropical regions. The Philippines knows them as "tino-tino" among other local names. Their bright color and distinctive taste make them stand out in markets. Let's explore…

Scallop Farming: Complete Guide to Sustainable Seafood Production

Arturo Braga0 CommentsAquaculture

Scallop farming represents one of the fastest-growing sectors in modern aquaculture worldwide. These bivalve mollusks thrive in controlled environments where farmers can monitor water quality and feeding patterns. The practice dates back centuries in some Asian countries but has recently gained popularity in Western nations. Scallops grow attached to surfaces or freely on ocean floors in their natural habitat. However, farming protects crops from predators and provides optimal growing conditions. The global demand for these delicious shellfish continues to rise as more people discover their culinary versatility. Unlike wild harvesting, which relies on natural scallop beds that may face depletion,…

Flatfish: Dapa Fish Description, Benefits, & Side Effects

Arturo Braga0 CommentsAquaculture

Flatfish belong to the order Pleuronectiformes, which includes many species with asymmetrical, flattened bodies. These unusual fish undergo a remarkable transformation during development. They begin life swimming upright like typical fish, but as they mature, one eye migrates to join the other on a single side of the head. Their bodies flatten sideways, allowing them to rest and swim along the ocean floor. The dapa fish in English often refers to specific flatfish species found in Southeast Asian waters. Common species include the Indian halibut (Psettodes erumei) and various flounder species. Taxonomists classify flatfish into several families, including Paralichthyidae (large-tooth…

Alagaw Tree: Description, Characteristics, and Uses

Arturo Braga0 CommentsForestry, Medicinal Plants

Forestry experts and traditional healers alike value the Alagaw tree for its remarkable versatility and healing properties. This unassuming yet powerful native plant has been an integral part of traditional Philippine medicine for centuries, offering remedies for various ailments from respiratory conditions to skin disorders. Despite its significance in indigenous healthcare systems, the Alagaw remains relatively unknown outside traditional medicine circles and local communities where it naturally grows. As interest in sustainable forestry and natural remedies continues to grow globally, this modest tree deserves greater recognition for its ecological contributions and therapeutic potential. The Alagaw tree in the Philippines thrives…

Mahogany Tree: Description, Characteristics, and Uses

Arturo Braga0 CommentsForestry

Forestry experts worldwide recognize the Mahogany tree as one of the most valuable hardwood species in tropical regions. With its impressive stature, distinctive reddish-brown wood, and remarkable durability, this majestic tree has earned a special place in both natural ecosystems and human industries. For centuries, the Mahogany has provided exceptional timber that combines beauty, strength, and workability, making it a prized resource for fine furniture, architectural elements, and musical instruments. As sustainable forestry practices evolve, understanding the unique characteristics and requirements of this important species becomes increasingly vital. The Mahogany tree represents more than just an economic resource; it serves…

Red Nato: Description, Characteristics, and Uses

Arturo Braga0 CommentsForestry

Forestry experts consider the Red Nato among the most valuable timber species in Southeast Asian rainforests, particularly in the Philippines. This majestic tree, with its towering height and distinctive reddish heartwood, represents an important resource in tropical forest ecosystems. Despite its significance, many people remain unfamiliar with this remarkable species that combines beauty with exceptional durability and strength. As tropical hardwood resources face increasing pressures from development and illegal logging, understanding species like Red Nato becomes crucial for conservation and sustainable forest management. The Red Nato faces significant threats across its native range, making it increasingly rare in natural forests.…

Fruit Trees: 10 Fruits Bearing Trees that Provide High Quality Wood and Lumber

Arturo Braga0 CommentsForestry

Forestry experts have long recognized the unique value of fruit trees that serve dual purposes in Philippine ecosystems. These remarkable plants not only produce delicious edible fruits but also yield high-quality wood suitable for furniture making, construction, and various woodworking projects. Many Filipinos grow fruit trees in their backyards primarily for food, often overlooking the valuable timber these trees can provide after their productive fruiting years. With sustainable forestry practices gaining importance, these dual-purpose trees offer an excellent solution for both household food security and timber needs without contributing to deforestation. Fruit trees represent a sustainable alternative to traditional logging…

Acacia Tree: Description, Characteristics, and Uses

Arturo Braga0 CommentsForestry

The Acacia tree stands as one of the most recognizable trees in tropical landscapes worldwide. With its broad, umbrella-shaped canopy, this majestic tree provides cooling shade in hot climates. Many people know it by different names across various regions. The Acacia common name varies depending on location—Rain Tree, Monkey Pod, and Saman being the most popular. This remarkable tree belongs to the Fabaceae family, which includes many leguminous plants known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. The tree has gained popularity in many tropical countries for its fast growth rate and multiple benefits. It thrives in the…

5 Fast Growing Trees in the Philippines Worth Planting

Arturo Braga0 CommentsForestry

Forestry experts recommend fast growing trees in the Philippines for both small farmers and large plantations. These trees grow quickly and bring many benefits. They help fight climate change and create income for farmers. Native trees in the Philippines have adapted to local conditions, making them easier to grow. Many can reach harvest size in just 3-10 years. This makes them perfect for those wanting quick returns on land. Fast-growing trees offer solutions for many environmental problems. They help prevent soil erosion and flooding in vulnerable areas. They also provide shade and cool local areas. These trees store carbon and…

Purple Corn: The Colorful Crop Transforming Filipino Farming

Arturo Braga0 CommentsFarming

Purple corn farming presents a colorful opportunity for Filipino agriculture. This vibrant crop stands out in both appearance and nutritional value. More farmers now consider this unique variety for its market potential. The distinctive purple hue comes from powerful plant compounds. These same compounds offer significant health advantages to consumers. Growing this crop requires similar techniques to traditional corn varieties. Yet the returns often exceed those of conventional corn farming. With increasing health consciousness among consumers, purple corn meets a growing market demand. Let's explore why more Filipino farmers should consider adding this crop to their fields. Understanding Purple Corn…