Lauro Braganza, Author at Sustainable Agriculture

Jul72024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Denver Biang: A Young Agripreneur Shaping the Future of Agriculture

Agriculture

At 25, Denver Biang from Kapangan, Benguet, is taking significant strides toward shaping a promising future in agriculture and food production—a dream he has cherished since childhood. In a recent interview with the Philippine News Agency, Denver shared his passion for Agripreneurship and his plans to develop his skills further to secure his family's future while contributing to food production in the Philippines. "I am happy with what I do. That is the most important thing, aside from the positive economic prospects in being a farmer," Denver expressed in his native language, Ilocano. Denver is the proud owner of Saymayat Farm, located in Barangay Bineng, La Trinidad, Benguet. His farm specializes in producing seedlings of leafy vegetables cultivated in seedling trays, which are...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Do Drones Mate with Their Own Queen?

Livestock

The intricate world of honeybee queen mating has long fascinated scientists and beekeepers alike. One of the intriguing questions that arises in this context is whether queen bees ever mate with their own drones. While it might seem counterintuitive, honeybees' natural instincts work against such inbreeding. In this article, we will delve into the captivating process of honeybee mating, addressing the methods, purposes, and consequences of this vital act in a bee's life. The Mating Ritual Contrary to the territorial battles that queen bees engage in, the mating ritual between a queen and a drone is more about speed and agility than direct confrontation. Drones, the male honeybees, engage in a high-speed chase to catch up with the queen during her mating flight. This chase involves hu...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Vermicomposting in the Philippines as Business

Agriculture

Vermicomposting in the Philippines is a highly profitable business to start with, and people who are exploring starting a gari business should look into vermiculture. The Philippines, being a tropical country, is rich in biodiversity and has lots of agricultural resources that can turn into profitable business ventures. One of these is vermiculture - turning biodegradable wastes into high-quality organic fertilizer using African Night Crawler (Eudrilus eugeniae). As of this writing, one sack or 50 kilos of vermicompost costs P800 to P1,000, depending on which part of the country you are in, and worms cost P1,000 to P1,200 per kilo. Vermicomposting in the Philippines| The African Nightcrawler Worm Eudrilus eugeniae, also called the "African Nightcrawler," is an earthworm species nativ...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

The Lesser Known Medicinal Benefits of Makabuhay Plant

Medicinal Plants

Makabuhay, scientifically known as Tinospora rumphii, is a fascinating plant native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. While it may not be as well-known as other herbal remedies, it boasts an impressive array of medicinal benefits. This article'll delve into the scientific aspects, physical characteristics, and lesser-known medicinal properties of the Makabuhay plant. We'll also discuss its potential side effects and answer some common questions about this remarkable botanical wonder. What is Makabuhay Scientific Name: The Makabuhay plant is officially known as Tinospora rumphii. It belongs to the family Menispermaceae and is closely related to the Tinospora cordifolia, commonly referred to as Giloy. Habitat: This vine-like plant thrives in various tropical and sub...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Lagundi Benefits, Capsule, Syrup, and Other Preparations

Medicinal Plants

Lagundi, scientifically known as Vitex negundo, is a versatile medicinal plant that is native to Southeast Asia. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments and is known for its exceptional cough-relieving properties. In this article, we will explore the Lagundi plant's scientific name, habitat, and physical characteristics; its various preparations, including capsules and syrup; its effectiveness for cough; its numerous medicinal benefits; possible side effects; and answer some frequently asked questions about this remarkable herb. What is Lagundi Scientific Name: Vitex negundo Habitat: Lagundi thrives in a tropical climate and is commonly found in the Philippines, India, and other Southeast Asian parts. It can grow in various soil types and is oft...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

The Healing Properties and Medical Benefits of Oregano

Medicinal Plants

Oregano, scientifically known as Origanum vulgare, is a beloved herb found in many kitchens, known for its culinary uses and aromatic qualities. However, oregano is much more than just a flavorful addition to your favorite dishes. This remarkable herb has a rich history of medicinal applications, and its healing properties have been cherished for centuries. In this article, we'll explore the oregano plant, its habitat, physical characteristics, uses, medicinal benefits, and possible side effects, and address some frequently asked questions about this versatile herb. What is Oregano Scientific Name: The scientific name for oregano is Origanum vulgare. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which is also home to other aromatic herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary. Habitat: Oregano is n...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Wound Healing and Other Medicinal Benefits of Hagonoy Plant

Medicinal Plants

In this article, we will explore the medicinal benefits of the Hagonoy plant, its potential applications in wound healing, and the precautions one should take due to possible side effects. Hagonoy, scientifically known as Chromolaena odorata, is a remarkable plant with a rich history of medicinal uses. This perennial shrub belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to tropical regions in Africa, Asia, and Australia. It has also found its way to the Americas, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant is known by various names worldwide, such as "Siam weed" or "triffid weed." Hagonoy is characterized by its tall, woody stems, serrated leaves, and small white or lavender-colored flowers. While it may be perceived as a weed in some areas, its medicinal properties have made i...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

25 Business Ideas in Agriculture to Start in 2024

Agriculture

Agriculture is the backbone of civilization, providing sustenance, livelihood, and fuel to humanity. As our world's population continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, the demand for food, fiber, and fuel is surging. This presents an immense opportunity for entrepreneurs and innovators to make their mark on the agricultural industry. This article will explore 25 innovative business ideas in agriculture that tap into emerging trends, utilize cutting-edge technologies, and emphasize sustainable practices. From traditional farming ventures to agri-tech startups, let's delve into agriculture-driven entrepreneurship. Vertical Farming Vertical farming is a game-changer in the agricultural industry. It involves utilizing vertical spaces to grow crops indoors using hydroponics, ...

Jul52024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

Proven Ways to Preserve Tomatoes: A Guide to Enjoying the Summer Harvest All Year

Food and Health

As the summer sun shines brightly, and your garden or local farmers' market is brimming with fresh, ripe tomatoes, it's the perfect time to consider preserving these vibrant gems to enjoy their flavors all year round. Whether you're a seasoned canner or a newbie looking to explore the world of food preservation, these tried-and-true methods will ensure your tomatoes stay delicious and nutritious for an extended period. In this article, we'll discuss the step-by-step process of preserving tomatoes so you can savor their essence even during the coldest winter months. 1. Selection and Preparation The first step in preserving tomatoes is to select the right ones. Choose mature and ripe tomatoes that are still firm. This will ensure that your preserved tomatoes are bursting with flavor. W...

Jul42024 by Lauro BraganzaNo Comments

4 Profitable Food Business Ideas with Low Capital

Food and Health

Starting a food business can be rewarding, but it often comes with the misconception that it requires a hefty initial investment. The reality is that there are numerous opportunities to enter the food industry with limited capital. This article will explore 20 food business ideas you can launch with relatively low start-up costs. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, these ideas can help you turn your passion for food into a profitable venture. I. Food Truck or Food Cart Choose a Unique Cuisine or Concept: The food truck and cart industry has exploded recently. To stand out, identify a niche market or cuisine that isn't overly saturated in your area. Whether it's gourmet burgers, ethnic street food, or healthy bowls, offering a unique concept can help ...