• All existing plants, including weeds and nearby trees, were identified. Weeds and any unwanted plants that could compete for nutrients or attract pests were removed. Companion plants such as marigolds were selected and planted to help deter common pests.

• The key biotic threats to rock melon, such as aphids, cucumber beetles, and powdery mildew, were identified. Abiotic factors, including the possibility of waterlogging and nutrient imbalances in the soil, were also assessed.

• The ecosystem was analyzed, focusing on soil type, local climate conditions, and the presence of beneficial insects. The warm weather in the area was noted as ideal for rock melon growth. Beneficial insects like ladybugs were encouraged to help manage pest populations naturally. The soil was found to be loamy and well-suited for rock melon cultivation, and an irrigation plan was established to maintain consistent moisture levels.

• Optimal spacing for rock melon vines (60-90 cm apart) to promote good air circulation and minimize disease risks. Mulch was applied to conserve soil moisture and reduce weed growth. A drip irrigation system was installed to provide consistent watering while reducing the risk of fungal infections. Disease-resistant varieties of rock melon were chosen to prevent common problems.

• Regular monitoring of the rock melon plants has been carried out. Plants were inspected weekly for early signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. Aphids were spotted early on a few plants, and beneficial insects like ladybugs were introduced to control them naturally. Observations were recorded, and corrective measures were taken promptly, such as adjusting the nutrient levels and applying organic treatments to prevent mildew.

Nearby crops include:

1) Spinach

2) Corn

3) Yardlong beans

4) Some weeds such as: Spiny amaranth, and West indian pinkroot.

• the flowers has curly stems

• the leaves looks like shield

• need to use smtg to attach the plant

2. determine

• fungi disease

• pests like aphids

• the leaves wilthered because of stress

3. study ecosystem

• make food through photosynthesis

• grow in tropical environments

• need full sunlight and well drainage soil

4. smart planning

• use organic compost to improve soil fertility and moisture while reducing weed growth

• side selection for choosing place that have sunny area

• crops rotation to avoid long beans in the same spot every season

5. frequent monitoring

• pest attacks

• 1. check the lost for aphids, bean flies and red spider mites

• monitor soil moisture to insure soil neither to dry or waterlogged

• weed growth

• 1. regularly inspects the base of the plant for weeds that compete for nutrients and water

a. Viral disease (possible Chili Mosaic Virus or Leaf Curl Virus)

• Symptoms: Mottled or patchy yellow and green leaves, curled or distorted leaf edges, and reduced fruit size.

• Cause: Spread by insects such as aphids or whiteflies that transmit the virus from infected plants.

• Effect on plant: Slows growth, weakens the plant, and reduces yield quality.

-Abiotic Factors (Non-living causes — environment, soil, or nutrient issues)

a. Nutrient deficiency (possible Nitrogen or Magnesium deficiency)

• Symptoms: Yellowing or chlorosis on older leaves, uneven color, slow growth.

• Cause: Lack of essential nutrients or poor soil fertility in the grow bags.

Nearby crops

1) orca

2) mustard green

3) water spinach

3) long beans

• pest damage on leaf surface (exp: grasshopper)

• Weed competition: The precent of weeds between rods competes with bendi for nutrients, water, light. Weeds can also harbor insect pests and diseases.

• Leaf spot disease (fungal infection) : The lower leaves show brownish to reddish circular spots with yellow edges.

• weed compete with main crops

• Nutrient deficiency on leaf ( exp: yellowing on leaf show because lack of nutrient)

• Stagnant water due to lack of proper drainage

  
  

• Poor drainage, waterlogging: There is visible standing water between the planting beds, which can caused root rot, reduced oxygen availability in the soil, and stunt plant growth.

• Soil compaction: Water stagnation suggests compacted soil that doesn't drain well.

• Uneven growth: Some plants are smaller and paler compared to others, which may indicate nutrient imbalances or inconsistent watering.

The main plant observed is Kailan (Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra). This plant is grown in an area surrounded by Heliconia and Corn plants. The environment is a mixed cropping area with full sunlight exposure and a warm tropical temperature ranging between 28°C to 33°C. The soil type is sandy clay, which provides moderate fertility and holds water fairly well. Overall, the area has good drainage, although some parts are slightly waterlogged.

2. Biotic Problems

During the observation, the main biotic issue identified was the presence of grasshoppers, which occasionally feed on surrounding vegetation but do not significantly harm the Kailan plants. The leaves of Kailan showed signs of wilting and yellowing, likely due to environmental stress and not pest activity. No major pest infestations were found directly on the Kailan. However, the plants were propagated too closely, leading to competition for nutrients, sunlight, and space. This condition may also reduce air circulation and slightly increase the risk of disease development.

3. Abiotic Problems

Several abiotic factors affecting the Kailan plants were observed. The sunlight availability is good and supports healthy growth. However, the water level in the soil was found to be low, causing mild wilting symptoms. The soil quality is rather compact, which restricts proper root aeration and water movement. The soil type, which is sandy clay, retains moderate moisture but requires consistent watering. Water drainage overall is good, yet some spots are too waterlogged, especially after heavy rain or irrigation. Other issues include the presence of too many weeds competing for nutrients and the uneven distribution of fertilizer, particularly around the edges. Physical damage was only observed on the weeds, not on the Kailan plants themselves.

4. Ecosystem Study

The Kailan plants grow in a warm and humid tropical ecosystem, which suits their growth requirements. The nearby Heliconia and Corn plants create a mixed plant environment that promotes biodiversity and may help with natural pest control. However, this also increases competition for sunlight, nutrients, and water. The soil’s well-drained condition prevents water stagnation, but maintaining proper soil moisture is essential to avoid drought stress. The overall ecosystem supports Kailan growth but needs regular monitoring to ensure balance and healthy coexistence among species.

5. Smart Planning (Care Plan)

Based on the assessment, a care plan was developed to improve Kailan growth. The plants should be watered twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, to maintain sufficient moisture. Soil should be loosened regularly, and organic compost added to enhance soil structure and nutrient content. Weeds must be removed weekly to reduce competition for nutrients and space. Fertilizer should be applied evenly, especially at the edges of the planting area. If necessary, plants should be spaced further apart to allow proper air circulation and reduce stress. Pest control should focus on monitoring grasshoppers, and organic methods such as neem oil spray can be used if infestation occurs. Finally, ensure that drainage channels remain clear to prevent waterlogging during rainy periods.

6. Frequent Monitoring

Throughout the four-week observation, several improvements were recorded. In week one, the plants showed slight wilting, which improved after increasing the watering frequency. In week two, yellowing leaves turned greener after fertilizer was applied evenly. In week three, weeds were removed manually, resulting in better growth space and cleaner surroundings. By week four, adjusting the plant spacing improved air circulation and overall plant health. The Kailan plants are now growing healthily with minimal pest activity and strong leaf development.