1

CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

Introduction

Houseplant problems often arise when a new plant is brought into a home

that previously was free of any problems (Grow, 2015). The presence of insect

pests or soft-bodied pests is one of these houseplant problems. Homeowners

have difficulty controlling these pests because they often are either not aware of

the problem until both the infestation and the damage are extensive (UGA

Extension, 2017). Some soft-bodied pests, like the aphids, may cause leaves to

pucker or to become severely distorted, even if only a few aphids are present

(Townsend, L., n.d.).

To prevent these pests from spreading, some farmers or gardeners use

insecticide or insecticidal soap. Insecticidal soaps have become an

increasingly popular method of controlling certain insects in a very “eco -

friendly” manner (IPM, 2016). Meanwhile, the increasing growth of quiapo

kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant in rice field poses a threat to the growth of palay in

rice field. According to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), farmers

lose an estimated average of 37% of their rice crop to pests and diseases every

year.

Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant is emollient, laxative and diuretic. Its

leaves are demulcent and refrigerant. This plant is considered antiseptic,

antitubercular, antidysenteric. Studies have shown antidermatophytic,

 2

hypotensive, cytotoxic, larvicidal, bronchodilating, antidiabetic, antioxidant,

phytoremediating, antinociceptive, CNS depressant, anthelmintic, antimicrobial,

radioprotective, diuretic properties. Leaves of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.)

plant is considered insecticidal. Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant contains

salts of potassium, sodium, magnesium, and lime: also, iron, aluminum, and

silicic acid and its leaves are rich in vitamin A, C and also vitamin B. (Retrieved

on January 14, 2019 from http://www.stuartxchange.org /Kiapo.html).

This led the researchers to conduct this scientific investigation which aims

to make an insecticidal soap out of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant as well

as to address the problem of farmers of massive growth of the pest Quiapo kitou

(Pistia stratiotes l.) plant in rice field for them to have more space for palay to

grow and less space for the spreading of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant.

Furthermore, this study also aims to kill soft-bodied pests (aphids, immature leaf

hoppers, mealy bugs and thrips) and prevent them to destroy plant. Producing

more insecticidal soap will lessen the production of Quiapo kitou (Pistia

stratiotes l.) plant as well make it as helpful to kill soft-bodied pests.

 3

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to lessen and kill soft-bodied pests (aphids, immature leaf

hopper, mealy bugs and thrips) by making an insecticidal soap out of Quiapo

kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract. Furthermore, this study aims to answer the

following questions:

1. What is the physical appearance of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.)

plant extract insecticidal soap in terms of:

1.1 Color

1.2 Odor

1. 3 Mass

2. Will there be a significant difference in the use of Quiapo kitou (Pistia

stratiotes l.) plant extract insecticidal soap in the controlled and

experimental group?

3. What will be the measure of effectiveness of Quiapo kitou (Pistia

stratiotes l.) plant as an insecticidal soap on its application?

 4

Conceptual Framework

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

Gathering
Quiapo kitou materials and Quiapo kitou
(Pistia equipment (Pistia
stratiotes Linn.) Washing the stratiotes Linn.)
plant plant plant extract as
Chopping the an Insecticidal
plant soap
Getting the
extract of the
chopped plant
Straining the
extract
Boiling of water
Putting the
ingredients
together
Straining the
mixture
Adding the
extract

Figure 1: Making the Insecticidal soap

Significance of the Study

This study will help lessen the growth of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.)

plant in the rice field and make it as a useful insecticidal soap which will help

lessen the number of soft-bodied pest (aphids, immature leaf hoppers, mealy

bugs and thrips). The following will be benefited by this study:

 5

For the farmers, this study aims to use the Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes

l.) plant to lessen the growth of it in the rice field. There will be more space for

palay to grow and less space for the spreading of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes

l.) plant in the rice field. This study will help farmers to harvest and collect the

maximum grain yield and minimize grain damage and quality deterioration.

For the community, it may help the citizens to know that Quiapo kitou

(Pistia stratiotes l.) plant can be used as an insecticidal soap because it has

insecticidal property that has an ability to kill soft-bodied pest (aphids, immature

leaf hoppers, mealy bugs and thrips). And by that, instead of buying

commercialized insecticide for soft - bodied pest they can make their own using

some Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extact that can be found in rice

fields.

For the students and future researchers, this study can help raise

awareness to students and citizens regarding the current happenings and

problem in our rice fields. It can also help them to make innovations or

improvisations on how they will use the Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant to

the different problems in our surroundings. Furthermore, this study may provide

insights for students and researchers to develop another study about the Quiapo

kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.).

 6

Scope and Delimitation

To conduct this research, the researchers will test the product by applying

it to the plants prone to soft-bodied pests and the results will be observed.

The results of the study will be based on the researchers’ observations.

The study will be conducted in City of Tayabas from January to March 2019.

Definition of Terms

Fatty acids are composed of hydrocarbon chains terminating with carboxylic

acid groups and are primary components of lipids (Retrieved on January

29, 2019 from https://biologydictionary.net/fatty-acids/). The fatty acids are

the active ingredient in insecticidal soap, especially that comes from

animal fat or vegetable oil.

Houseplants add beauty with foliage and flowers to the inside of your house

(Retrieved on January 29, 2019 from

https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/). These are also plants that

are adapted for growing indoors and these are plants where soft-bodied

pests can be found.

Insecticidal soap can be used to get rid of certain insect pests on plants, and it

is one of the most non-toxic pesticides available (Retrieved on January 16,

2019 from http://www.gardenfundamentals.com/insecticidal-soap-use-

 7

properly/). In this study, it will be the product that the researchers will

going to make out of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.).

Organic insecticidal soap does not have a toxic or strong insecticidal odor

(Retrieved on January 16, 2019 from

https://www.planetnatural.com/forums/topic/pesticide-odor/). It is widely

used in the farming industry as safe substitute for the synthetically

produced ones.

Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) is an aquatic plant, floating on lakes, streams,

stagnant water and in lime-rich water, gregarious and stem-less

(Retrieved on January 16, 2019 from

http://www.stuartxchange.org/Kiapo.html). In this study, it refers to the

plant that is dominant in rice fields poses a threat to the growth of palay.

This is also the plant that the researchers will use to lessen the number of

soft-bodied pests.

Rice field is a field where rice is grown (Retrieved on January 29, 2019 from

https://www.collinsdictionary.com/amp/english/ricefield). It is usually where

Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant are found and available.

Soft-bodied pests causes leaves to pucker or to become severely distorted

(Retrieved on January 29, 2019 from

https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef103). These are also non-vertebrate

pests that are mostly found in gardens and houseplants which will

eliminated by the researchers’ insecticidal soap.

 8

CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter includes the related literature and also the related studies

about Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract as insecticidal soap against

soft bodied pests.

Quiapo Kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.)

Based on Tropical Plants Database (2019), Water lettuce is a small,

evergreen perennial plant with feathery roots. Free-floating in lakes, ponds etc,

the plant forms rosettes of leaves up to 10cm wide and 6cm tall with a flowering

stem up to 12cm tall. The plant can spread quickly, especially in still water, to

form quite extensive clumps. The plant is sometimes used locally for food, but

only usually where nothing better is available. It has a range of medicinal

applications and is also used as a source of organic matter and to remove toxins

from polluted water. It is sometimes grown as an ornamental in the tropics and as

an indoor aquatic ornamental in temperate regions. The leaves is also essential

for having an insecticidal property against some insects.

According to Rotor (2016), P. stratiotes is a perennial monocotyledonous

aquatic plant present, either naturally or through human introduction, in nearly all

tropical and subtropical fresh waterways. It floats on the water surface, with roots

hanging below floating leaves. Its growth habit can make it a weed in waterways,

where it can kill native submerged plants and reduce biodiversity.

 9

According to StuartXchange (n.d.), Kiapo is an aquatic plant, floating on

lakes, streams, stagnant water and in lime-rich water, gregarious and stemless.

Leaves are few or many, fanlike, 2.5 to 15 cm long, with a rounded or retuse

apex, thickened base, with small, soft hairs on both surfaces. Spathes are few,

white, oblique, about 12 mm long, with short peduncles. Spadix is adnate to the

back of the tube of the spathe, but free above. Fruit is membraneous and few-

seeded. Seeds are oblong or obovoid, albuminous, with rugose testa.

The present investigation of Ito (2015), assesses the larvicidal effect of

Pistia stratiotes (water lettuce) against early 3rd and 4th instar larvae of Aedes

aegypti in the laboratory. Mosquito larvae were sampled and larval population

was monitored before and after application of plant aqueous extract. To assess

the larvicidal activity, four different doses (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0) mg/L respectively

were used in the trials. Larval mortality was monitored after 24, 48 and 72 hours.

At the highest dose, mortalities of 97.40, 98.80 and 99.80% for the third instar

larvae and 99.70, 97.50 and 97.7% for the fourth instar larvae was observed. The

percentage mortality for the fourth instar larvae decreased with hours of

exposure. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) conducted on the data, showed that

there was significant difference (p>0.05) in mortality between treatments and in

hours of exposure. Further, the LC50 and LC90 for the 3rd were 0.11 and 1.44

mg/L while that of the 4th instar larvae were 0.22 and 1.51 mg/L respectively. The

study indicated that P. stratiotes is an effective insecticide against the larvae of

A. aegypti. Measures to enhance its use for large scale mosquito control are

essential.
 10

Insecticidal Soaps

As stated by Paulis (2016), insecticidal soap can be used to get rid of

certain insect pests on plants, and it is one of the most non-toxic pesticides

available. However, it is still a pesticide and needs to be treated as one. Many

people use insecticidal soaps incorrectly, or for the wrong type of insect.

According to Lady Bug Blog (2015), insecticidal soaps are potassium salts

of fatty acids. The soap is made from the action of an alkali such as potassium

hydroxide on a fat. Fats consist mainly of fatty acids. Commercial products

contain a blend of selected fatty acid chain lengths.

Based on Murray (2014), insecticidal soaps are very effective for

managing soft-bodied insects like aphids, scales, whitefly, mealybugs, thrips, and

spider mites. The soap must contact the insect’s outer skeleton to be effective.

Leaf-feeding insects are often found on the undersides of leaves, so be sure to

fully cover plant foliage. As with any pesticide, it is important to choose a natural

insecticide that fits the situation in which you will use it. these products vary in

their toxicity to non-target organisms such as fish and bees, as well as their

effectiveness at controlling specific insect pests. If used improperly, organic

insecticides can harm people and the environment, so do not make the mistake

of thinking that products labeled as “natural” are nontoxic.

 11

Organic Insecticidal Soap

According to Olkowsky (2014), natural soaps are derived from plants

(coconut, olive, palm, cotton) or animal fat (whale oil, fish oil, or lard) and have

been used since the 1700s to control certain soft-bodied insects such as aphids.

As stated by Vinje (2016), insecticidal soap has a light soapy or lard-type

smell to it when first applied that dissipates quickly as it dries. It does not have a

toxic or strong insecticidal odor. Soaps work against soft-bodied pests via

dehydration, as soon as the application dries it is ineffective.

Organic vs. Synthetic Insecticidal Soap

Based on the statements of Modern Pests Services (2017), both natural

and synthetic pesticides are effective at controlling pests. However, their modes

of action can differ greatly. They often result in a drastic difference in the length

of time it takes to see the intended results. Pest management professionals

often get requests from their organic clients to “use the good stuff” (meaning

synthetic pesticide option). This comes after some frustration with dealing with an

infestation longer than expected. Synthetic pesticides often act quickly because

they are chemically engineered to target and disrupt specific biological functions

within the intended pest. While natural or organic pesticides will also work if

given enough time and patience. The down side with natural options is that it

may require more visits and multiple applications to achieve the same result.

Many people, who are dealing with a pest infestation, seem to prefer the issue to
 12

be resolved quickly. They are unwilling to wait for the organic materials to do

their job.

In accordance to Rosner (2010), soap sprays do have limitations, though.

The soap may be mildly toxic to some plants. To minimize damage to plants,

entomologist Whitney Cranshaw from the Colorado State University extension

office recommends waiting four to seven days between applications, diluting the

spray with water even more than the spray instructions recommend, and

spraying the same plant as few times as possible.

Soft Bodied Pest

Based on University of Kentucky (2013), the warm, humid conditions and

abundant food in a greenhouse provide an excellent, stable environment for pest

development. Often, the natural enemies that serve to keep pests under control

outside are not present in the greenhouse. For these reasons, pest situations

often develop in this indoor environment more rapidly and with greater severity

than outdoors. Pest problems can be chronic unless recognized and corrected.

According to Planet Natural Research Center (2017), soft bodied pests

are found in warmer growing climates, mealybugs are soft-bodied, wingless

insects that often appear as white cottony masses on the leaves, stems and fruit

of plants. They feed by inserting long sucking mouthparts, called stylets, into

plants and drawing sap out of the tissue. Damage is not often significant at low

pest levels. However, at higher numbers they can cause leaf yellowing and

curling as the plant weakens. Feeding is usually accompanied by honeydew,

 13

which makes the plant sticky and encourages the growth of sooty moulds.

Mealybugs are a common greenhouse pest that affect ornamentals, houseplants,

avocados and fruits.

As stated by Dill (2016), the mouthparts of sucking insects are developed

for piercing and sucking. These pests damage plants by inserting their

mouthparts into plant tissue and removing juices. Heavily infested plants become

yellow, wilted, deformed or stunted, and may eventually die. Some sucking

insects inject toxic materials into the plant while feeding, and some transmit

disease organisms.

Based on University of Florida (2017), aphids are largely controlled by

many generalist natural enemies such as ladybeetles, hoverflies, and lacewings

that normally maintain their populations, and those of other flush-feeding insects,

below levels that warrant treatment in producing groves. Excessive honeydew

accumulation on leaves will result in the growth of sooty mold fungus that blocks

light and reduces photosynthetic activity.

Synthesis

Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) is abundantly found in the water bodies of

tropical countries. Its leaves contain insecticidal activity which helps to the

manipulation of insect-related infestations. (Tropical Plants Database, 2019). Soft

bodied pest feeds on the health of the plant by sucking through the plants certain

infested part. (Planet Natural Research Center, 2017). According to Modern

Pests Services (2017), organic insecticidal soap is widely used in the farming
 14

industry as safe substitute for the synthetically produced ones. Insecticidal

soaps can be used to prevent soft bodied pest that infests a plant. Recent study

shows that Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) has an effective insecticidal property

against various insects. (Ito, 2015)

 15

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

This chapter provides the research design that was used in the study.

Likewise, this identifies the respondents and the sampling techniques employed,

and the research locale, where the study was conducted. This also defines the

data collection instrument that was used and the way data was collected.

Research Design

The study employed exploratory research design wherein it intends to

explore the research question. This is a qualitative research that examine the

effectiveness of Quaipo Kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract as an insecticidal

soap. The researchers collected the information involving the effectiveness of the

insecticidal soap. Data was gathered through observation of the results and of

the application of the product that undergo qualitative interpretation.

Research Locale

This study was conducted in Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippine

because it is the locale of the researchers and it is efficient for the researcher to

gather data in the researchers’ resident. Specifically, the gathering of data from

the results of observation was held at the researchers’ house. This is where the

interpretation of the results happened. Therefore, the data were collected timely

and accurately.
 16

Research Sample

This research used purposive or judgemental sampling in which

researcher relies on the researchers’ own judgement based on their observation

of the experiment. The researchers used two sets of three different plants, spider

plant (Chlorophytum comosum), cast-iron (Aspidistra elatior) and calamansi

(Citrofortunella microcarpa), to see if there is a great number of soft-bodied pest

(aphids, immature leaf hoppers, mealy bugs and thrips) killed in the application of

insecticidal soap. This research also targets plant owners/ gardeners that

encountered soft-bodied pest in their plants.

Research Instrument

The main instrument of this research is the researchers. The researchers

observe and took down notes of the changes in the plants. This research used

direct observation wherein the researcher wrote down information of the variation

that took place at that very moment. It was used to accurately gathered the

results of the effectiveness of the insecticidal soap.

Data Gathering Procedure

The physical properties of Quaipo Kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant and the

physical content of the insecticidal soap was gathered using qualitative

observations regarding its odor, color and mass. To ensure the safety of testing

the product, proper procedures was followed. Reading manuals carefully for

safety was observed. Wearing face mask during the testing of the product was

also be observed since there the product will be sprayed to the plants, inhalation
 17

of it might bring harm to the health of the researcher. This research used

qualitative procedure that has dependable and reliable strategy. The researchers

ensure the completeness and accuracy of the archiving of data. Gathered data

will next be analyzed to conclude the interpreted results. It will be the basis to

answer the researcher questions.

Data Analysis

. The researcher used content analysis approach wherein the researcher

describes and interpret the phenomena happened in the plant used. The results

of the experiment or the gathered data was examined if it is connected to the

researcher questions. The researcher understands and interpreted the data. The

qualitative data was examined to derive explanation from the variation in the

plants. The collected information was organized and analyzed to draw

conclusions of the research. The results of this scientific investigation were

gathered through observing the effectiveness of the insecticidal soap in the two

sets of three different plants, spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum), cast-iron

(Aspidistra elatior) and calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa).

 18

CHAPTER IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The following were the data obtained from the experimentations and

observations done.

The Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant was subjected to be an

ingredient to make an insecticidal soap. Results of the properties of the

insecticidal soap are shown in Table 1.

Physical Characteristics Results

Color greenish light brown

Odor garlic scent

Mass 450g mL

Table 1. Properties of insecticidal soap Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract

Table 1 shows the result of the properties of the insecticidal soap. The

insecticidal soap is 450 mL in mass, greenish light brown in color and it has a

garlic scent. If compared to the commercialized insecticidal soap, it has a light,

milky colour and for the odor, others have light soapy or lard-type smell, others

stinks for hours and others doesn’t have harsh smell.

According to Olkowski (2014) natural soaps are derived from plants

(coconut, olive, palm, cotton) or animal fat (whale oil, fish oil, or lard) and have

been used since the 1700s to control certain soft-bodied insects such as aphids.
 19

Insecticidal soap has a light soapy or lard-type smell to it when first applied that

dissipates quickly as it dries. It does not have a toxic or strong insecticidal odor.

Soaps work against soft-bodied pests via dehydration, as soon as the application

dries it is ineffective (Vinje, 2016). This supports the study that Quaipo kitou

(Pistia stratiotes l.) plant can be used as an insecticidal soap with same properies

as those of the other insecticidal soap.

Two sets of 3 different plants, spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum),

cast-iron (Aspidistra elatior) and calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa), were

prepared to see if there is a great number of soft-bodied pest (aphids, immature

leaf hoppers, mealy bugs and thrips) killed in the application of insecticidal soap.

The controlled set has no application of the insecticidal soap and the

experimental set has the application. The researchers observed the two sets for

a week and the results are shown in Table 2.


CONTROLLED EXPERIMENTAL
Plants Observations Plants
Spider Plant  On the first day, the Spider
plant is healthy and
(Chlorophytum (Chlorophytum
green, though there
comosum) are some visible comosum)
soft-bodied pests.
 The plant still
looked the same on
the second day.
 On the third day,
some of the plant’s
leaves turned
yellowish.
 The plant started to
wilt on the fourth
day.
 The quantity of the
soft-bodied pests
grew on the fifth
day.
 On the sixth day,
the plant turned
yellowish in colour.
 On the seventh
day, the plant didn’t
grow well.
Cast-Iron  On the first day, the Cast-Iron
plant is healthy and
(Aspidistra elatior) (Aspidistra elatior)
green, though there
are some visible
soft-bodied pests.
 The plant still
looked the same on
the second day.
 On the third day,
some of the plant’s
leaves turned
yellowish.
 The plant started to
wilt on the fourth
day.
 The quantity of the
soft-bodied pests
grew on the fifth
day.
 On the sixth day,
the plant turned
yellowish in colour.
 On the seventh
day, the plant didn’t
grow well.
20
Observations
Plant  On the first day, the
plant is healthy and
green, though there
are some visible
soft-bodied pests.
 After applying the
insecticidal soap,
the plant is still
healthy and green
on the second day.
 On the third day, the
researchers
observed that the
soft-bodied pests
lessen.
 The researchers
continued applying
the insecticidal soap
on the fourth.
 There’s still a little
quantity of soft-
bodied pests visible
on the fifth day.
 On the sixth day, the
plant grew healthy
and green.
 All of the soft-bodied
pests were killed on
the seventh day.
 On the first day, the
plant is healthy and
green, though there
are some visible
soft-bodied pests.
 After applying the
insecticidal soap,
the plant is still
healthy and green
on the second day.
 On the third day, the
researchers
observed that the
soft-bodied pests
lessen.
 The researchers
continued applying
the insecticidal soap
on the fourth.
 There’s still a little
quantity of soft-
bodied pests visible
on the fifth day.
 On the sixth day, the
plant grew healthy
and green.
 All of the soft-bodied
pests were killed on
the seventh day.
 21

Calamansi  On the first day, the Calamansi  On the first day, the
plant is healthy and plant is healthy and
(Citrofortunella (Citrofortunella green, though there
green, though there
microcarpa) are some visible microcarpa) are some visible
soft-bodied pests. soft-bodied pests.
 The plant still  After applying the
looked the same on insecticidal soap,
the plant is still
the second day.
healthy and green
 On the third day, on the second day.
some of the plant’s  On the third day, the
leaves turned researchers
yellowish. observed that the
 The plant started to soft-bodied pests
wilt on the fourth lessen.
day.  The researchers
 The quantity of the continued applying
soft-bodied pests the insecticidal soap
grew on the fifth on the fourth.
day.  There’s still a little
 On the sixth day, quantity of soft-
the plant turned bodied pests visible
yellowish in colour. on the fifth day.
 On the seventh  On the sixth day, the
day, the plant didn’t plant grew healthy
and green.
grow well.
 All of the soft-bodied
pests were killed on
the seventh day.

Table 2. Observations between the controlled set and experimental set in a week

The researchers observed that there were a great number of soft-bodied

pests that were killed in the application of insecticidal soap. Aside from the

Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract, the other ingredients also helped.

According to Day (2018) the garlic and red pepper extract, helped to repel

chewing insects. As well as the cider vinegar for the powdery mildew.

Based on the table above, it also shows the efficacy of the insecticidal

soap to the three plants, spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum), cast-iron

(Aspidistra elatior) and calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa). For Plant A, the

spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum), both sets were seen healthy and green,

though there are some visible soft-bodied pests, which happened on the first day

of the observation. A day passed, the plant in the controlled set still looked the
 22

same, while in the experimental set, it was again applied by the insecticidal soap

and the plant was still healthy and green. On the third day, some of the plant’s

leaves in the controlled set turned yellowish while the other set didn’t, yet the

soft-bodied pests lessen. Another day passed, the plant in the controlled started

to wilt and the researchers continued applying the insecticidal soap on the other

plant. For the fifth day, the quantity of the soft-bodied pests grew on the first set,

which was the complete opposite on the other set. On the sixth day, the plant in

the controlled set turned yellowish in colour, on the other hand, the plant in the

experimental set grew healthy and green. As a result on the seventh day of the

observation, the plant in the first set wilted, the leaves turned yellowish and didn’t

grew well, but the plant on the other set grew healthy and all of the soft-bodied

pests were killed. For the observations of Plant B, the cast-iron (Aspidistra

elatior), and Plant C, the calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa), it was also the

same as what happened to the first plant.

These observations showed the differences between the application of the

insecticidal soap before and after. This denotes that the use of Quiapo kitou

(Pistia stratiotes l.) plant can reduced the quantity of soft-bodied pest in the three

plants.

According to Murray (2015), as with any insecticide, it is important to

choose a natural insecticide that fits the situation in which you will use it. These

products vary in their toxicity to nontarget organisms, as well as their

effectiveness at controlling specific insect pests. If used improperly, organic

insecticides can harm people and the environment, so do not make the mistake
 23

of thinking that products labeled as “natural” are nontoxic. This support the study

that Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant as an insecticidal soap is a great

ingredient to kill soft-bodied pest as it is a natural plant that has less toxicity for

plants than those of the synthetic insecticides.

 24

CHAPTER V

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary of Findings

This study was conducted to find out the effectiveness of the Quiapo kitou

(Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract as an insecticidal soap. The leaves of Quiapo

kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant is considered insecticidal/ has an insecticidal

property. This plant contains salts of potassium, sodium, magnesium, and lime:

also, iron, aluminum, and silicic acid and its leaves are rich in vitamin A, C and

also B. In table 2 it was shown that there is a difference in the controlled and

experimental group that denotes that the use of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.)

plant can reduced the quantity of soft-bodied pest in the three plants.

Conclusions

Based on the results in the study conducted, the researchers came up

with the following conclusions:

1. The physical appearance of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant

extract insecticidal soap is different from the commercialized one wherein the

450 mL Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) insecticidal soap has greenish light

brown color and garlic scent.

2. The researchers discovered that there's a significant difference in the

use of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract insecticidal soap before and

after the application.

 25

3. Based on the results, the application of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.)

plant extract as an insecticidal soap reduced the quantity of soft-bodied pest

(aphids, immature leaf hoppers, mealy bugs and thrips) in the three different

plants used, therefore the insecticidal soap is effective.

Recommendations

The researchers have fully accomplished the experiment and wanted to

recommend the following;

1. Use greater amount of Quiapo kitou (Pistia stratiotes l.) plant extract.

2. Use pure soap, instead of the mixture of sunflower oil, coconut oil and

water.

3. Try to compare it to a commercial insecticidal soap.

 26

REFERENCES

Dill, J. (2016). Sucking insects that affect vegetable plants. Retrieved on January

26, 2019 from

https://extension.umaine.edu/ipm/ipddl/publications/5039e/?fbclid=IwAR2U

XbnB5XTsWH-azZpYth9KVgLbmKJG1HEBSeYIzEjhP33ELgMhOosd4pE

Ito, E. (2015). Larvicidal activity of Pistia stratiotes (water lettuce) against larvae

of Aedes aegypti. Retrieved on January 26, 2019 from

http://www.academia.edu/33812993/Larvicidal_Activity_of_Pistia_stratiotes

_Water_Lettuce_against_Larvae_of_Aedes_aegypti?fbclid=IwAR3TQ_1PR

kCvSTOnZACOgnHEgqVTwUYo-GveGvzq6MM9q8IwpFz6HVRKWgo

Lady Bug Blog (2015). Insecticidal soaps. Retrieved on January 26, 2019 from

http://www.ladybug.uconn.edu/FactSheets/insecticidal-

soaps.php?fbclid=IwAR0bN6qH9-

2f3t0zsquUysSKm7DsFw9UMmqUqCVL85_4eknlGwOEe7wo6vY

Modern Pests Services (2017). What are natural pesticides?. Retrieved on

January 26, 2019 from https://www.modernpest.com/blog/what-are-natural-

pesticides/?fbclid=IwAR3Zl2kdeb00IlsAzWZ7sCqx9w2IW1-

XWDnk27kieWPebOojgKjBd9OJp6U

Murray (2015). Natural insecticides. Retrieved on January 26, 2019 from

http://agresearch.montana.edu/wtarc/producerinfo/entomology-insect-

ecology/Biopesticides/NaturalInsecticides.pdf
 27

Olkowski, W. (2014). CommonSense Pest Control: Least Toxic Solutions for

Your Home, Garden, Pets and Community. Newtown, CT: Taunton Press.

Retrieved on January 26, 2019 from

http://agresearch.montana.edu/wtarc/producerinfo/entomology-insect-

ecology/Biopesticides/NaturalInsecticides.pdf

Paulis, R. (2016). Insecticidal soap – use it properly. Retrieved on January 26,

2019 from http://www.gardenfundamentals.com/insecticidal-soap-use-

properly/?fbclid=IwAR0c1l91ca_cqSKTpXIDeMeRifQg5dhhWLufXAwqjCp3

odS_a0qUfr1CL7k

Planet Natural Research Center (2017). Mealybug. Retrieved on January 26,

2019 from https://www.planetnatural.com/pest-problem-solver/houseplant-

pests/mealybug-

control/?fbclid=IwAR1NuRVe3XKrVeRiaAAFl9C_5uX1oNtmklX5aNZQkgC

oL5LLOKQdu-4PbGk

Rosner, S. (2010). Insecticidal soap for garden pest contro. Retrieved on January

26, 2019 from https://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/pest-

control/insecticidal-soap-spray

Rotor, A. (2016). Quiapo in Manila is named after this plant – Kiapo. Retrieved on

January 26, 2019 from https://avrotor2.blogspot.com/2016/06/quiapo-in-

manila-is-named-after-thius.html?fbclid=IwAR38W1gYusf-

RwBLRjak1GbwlVQLwqkNYAbca-q8UbgR8ZJBrYURMXNT4hU
 28

Stuart Xchange (n.d.) Kiapo. Retrieved on January 26, 2019 from

http://www.stuartxchange.org/Kiapo.html?fbclid=IwAR1ok8PA9wNIbMpC2

UzQg1H1MA-L3ea4pm1C_hJs4-MS8y7KVTA_-UTJ_dI

Tropical Plants Database (2019). Pistia stratiotes. Retrieved on January 26, 2019

from

http://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Pistia%20stratiotes&fbclid=I

wAR1WkZANgtJpBw4K8nmODnYu7TNbQ2TmdKaBi2gHJxaCRoIPNrHXs

GVFRlI

University of Florida (2017). Soft-bodied insects attacking foliage and fruit.

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https://crec.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/pest/PDF/2017/Soft-

Bodied.pdf?fbclid=IwAR19mAuBTNnZgHcO20cQtLvgpd0n3MlR9deA2ipS5

0lHoGu70x0TfFIYDjk

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Vinje. (2016). Planet natural. Retrieved on January 26, 2019 from

https://www.planetnatural.com/forums/topic/pesticide-odor/
 29

APPENDICES
 30

Documentation (Extracting Quiapo Kitou plant)

 31

Documentation (Making the Insecticidal Soap)

 32

Documentation (Application of the Insecticidal Soap)

 33

Data Collected

Controlled and experimental group of Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum),

Cast-Iron (Aspidistra elatior), and Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa)

CONTROLLED GROUP

Day 1 Plants are healthy.

Day 2 Plants still looked the same.

Day 3 Some leaves turned yellow.

Day 4 Plant starts to wilt.

Day 5 Number of soft-bodied pest increases.

Day 6 The plants turned yellow.

Day 7 The plants didn’t grow well.

EXPERMENTAL GROUP

Day 1 Plants are healthy.

Day 2 Plants still looked the same.

Day 3 The soft-bodied pests lessen.

Day 4 Small quantity of soft-bodied pests were present.

Day 5 Number of soft-bodied pest decreases.

Day 6 The plants grew healthy.

Day 7 Soft-bodied pest were killed.

 34

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Kyle Maveric R. Matibag, 17 years old, a Filipino boy who lives at Brgy.

Wakas, Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines. He was born on February

24, 2002 in Tayabas City. He is currently living with his parents, Leynie R.

Matibag and Larry M. Matibag, along with his sibling, Jan Lester R. Matibag.

On his Elementary Days, his teachers and parents sees a talent on him in

solving Math equations. He also showed intelligence on other subjects just like

English and Science. He was always on Top 10 because of his hardwork. As he

stepped in Luis Palad Integrated High School, he struggles at first but as the time

pass by he made a lot of friends that helped him realized to think positively and

work hard, just live his life. And by that, he finished junior high school with

honors. He is now currently a senior high student at the same school, Grade 11

and taking the academic track Science, Technology, Engineering, and

Mathematics, still molding his life to all aspects.

 35

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Gilbert Allen Pacaigue Raymundo, 16 years old, a Filipino boy who lives at

Doña Carmen Subd. Brgy. Opias, Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines.

He was born on April 28, 2002 in Tayabas City. He is currently living with his

parents, Alden O. Raymundo and Donabel P. Raymundo, along with his sibling,

Gian Arron Sydney P. Raymundo.

At his young age, his parents see talents in him for he is curious in all

things, and always hungry for new experience and knowledge. He also showed

intelligence in all aspects, especially in understanding human. For the age of 3,

he started going to school. When he became a Daycare, he finished it being the

Top 1 student. On Elementary Days, he's not missing in Top 10. As he stepped

in Luis Palad Integrated High School, he joined many competitions, one is the

Scrabble Tournament where he is a third placer in Grade 7 division, and so many

more competitions especially when it comes to music. And by that, he finished

junior high school with honors. He is now currently a senior high student at the

same school, Grade 11 and taking the academic track Science, Technology,

Engineering, and Mathematics, still molding his life to all aspects.

 36

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Josep Anthony S. Palad, 17 years old, a Filipino boy who lives at Baltazar

St., Brgy. Angustias Z-III, Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines. He was

born on June 26, 2001 in Tayabas City. He is currently living with his mother,

Wilma S. Palad, along with his sister, Bianca Aila S. Palad.

At the age of 3, he was discovered to read properly already. After several

years, he was also discovered to sing and dance well at his age. He spent his

elementary years at Tayabas West Central School I. He competed on quiz bees

and oral reading competitions during his intermediate years and garnered the

Leadership Award on his graduation year. He spent his Junior and Senior High

School Years in Luis Palad Integrated High School. During Grade 11, he took the

track Science and Technoloy, Engineering and Mathematics. Currently, new

skills and abilities are further discovered during his years of loyalty in LPIHS.
 37

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Araceli Remie Christine G. Reyes is a Filipino girl who lives at 42 D.

Nadres St. Brgy. Mateuna Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines. She was

born on November 4, 2000 in Tayabas City. She is currently living with her

parents, Aristeo S. Reyes and Cristy G. Reyes, along with her two siblings,

Aristotle Christian G. Reyes and Ariszander Christian G. Reyes.

At her young age, her parents knew that she isn't just a bright girl, but

also possesses a talent in creating different artworks. She graduated in

elementary with honors in Tayabas East Central School I. As she stepped in Luis

Palad Integrated High School, she was one of the students who got in the

Science Enhanced Program. Also, with her talent, she got involved with different

poster-making contests, inside or outside the school. But still, she didn't left her

academic studies behind. And by that, she finished junior high school with high

honors. She is now currently a senior high school student at the same school,

Grade 11 and taking the academic track Science, Technology, Engineering and

Mathematics, molding her to improve more in different aspects.

 38

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Mia Rozen R. Tabi is a Filipino girl who lives at Sitio Luad, Brgy. Opias,

Tayabas City, Quezon Province, Philippines. She was born on August 24, 2001

in Tayabas City. She is currently living with her parents, Fidel J. Tabi and Elsa R.

Tabi, along with her two siblings, Phil Jake R. Tab and Jess Christian R. Tabi.

At her young age, her parents see different things that she was able to

acquire and do by merely observing the work of others and having little

confidence that she can do want she want to do. She graduated top 1 when she

was in kinder. On her elementary days, she showed intelligence in her academic

subjects. She belongs in top 10 since Grades 1 – 5 and became on the first

section on her Grade 6 and graduated in Tayabas East Central School I. As she

stepped in Luis Palad Integrated High School, she was one of the students who

got in the Science Enhanced Program. With her talents and hardwork in her

academic studies she finished junior high school with high honors. She is now

currently a senior high school student at the same school, Grade 11 and taking

the academic track Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, molding

her to improve more in different aspects in life.