Technological University of the Philippines

Taguig Campus

RESEARCH PROJECT
IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS:
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION OF A MINIATURE TREE

A Research Project
Presented to the
Basic Arts and Sciences Department
Senior High School
Technological University of the Philippines –Taguig Campus

To Partially Fulfill the Requirements in

Research Project / Capstone
By
Lynieta Carpio
Kimberly C. Carreon
Russell M. Concepcion

Professor Theresa Aguilar

Professor Heherson Padulayan Ramos
Engr. Maricel Ochoa
Thesis Advisers

March 2018
 Technological University of the Philippines
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APPROVAL SHEET
The research project hereto be titled
RESEARCH PROJECT
IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS:
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION OF A MINIATUTE TREE
Submitted and fortified by Kimberly Carreon, Lynieta Carpio and Russell Concepcionin
the fulfilment of their partial requirements in Research Project / Capstone has been
investigated and highly suggested for approval and acceptance for ORAL
EXAMINATION.
_______________________ _______________________
Prof. Ma. L. Theresa Aguilar Prof. Heherson P. Ramos
_____________________
Engr. Maricel S. Ochoa

PANEL OF EXAMINERS
Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination
With a grade of PASSED on March31, 2018.
_______________________
Mr. Norway J. Pangam
Panelist
_______________________ _______________________
Prof. Heherson P. Ramos Engr. Maricel H. Ochoa
Panelist Panelist
Accepted and approved in partial fulfilment of the requirements in
Research Project / Capstone.
_______________________ _______________________
Mrs. Lieda Abina Sobida Mr. Norway Pangan
Coordinador/Principal Department Head
Senior High School Basic Arts and SciencesDepartment
 Technological University of the Philippines
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ABSTRACT

The researchers conducted this study to design and produce a miniature hybrid
version of planting trees requiring a specific branch namely the Annona Squamosa plant
(sugar apple) and investigating the feasibility of an old branch or twig to reproduce
flourishing healthy leaves. In a wide range of experimentation, the researchers have
observed the growth of a bonsai planted in sand with a sunlight exposure thriving a length
of 2.5 cm from week seven up until week twelve measuring the leaves with 11 cm in
length while the bonsai planted in gravel with a shaded environment remained in the state
of growing spots until the end of the week.

The researchers have found the feasibility of this research project using the
specified plant which is the Annona Squamosa branch planted in sand with a sunlight
environment that has developed and successfully grew leaves along the body of the
branch. It was observed that sunlight is necessary for plants to grow in any fields or
condition with the addition of air molecules passing through the plant that helps it benefit
its growth. Strong temperature may also affect the cultivating process of a plant mostly
when the plant is sensitive with its environment.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
"May you all be wise in heeding and contemplating to the loving words of the
Lord” - Psalms 107:13

First and foremost, the researchers would like to thank Prof. Theresa Aguilar for
guiding them in the very beginning of our research study. In leading a straight path where
they could express their thoughts and wandering through this research project. To Mr.
Heherson Ramos, in enhancing the research project and giving the very possible ways to
make it feasible and be more accurate. To Mrs. Terania who have willingly extracted all
our ideas into a uniform and decent presentation through this research paper. Special
thanks to Engr. Maricel Ochoa for bringing them to the finish state of their research in
counselling in a very gilt-edged advice in giving ideas and motivation. Those professors
became the main road of this research to achieve its pleasing objectives and attain a
succeeding performance.

To the loving and supportive parents, for the financial assistance that were
provided and for all those efforts given to support us in every sleepless night that the
researchers have consumed to finish this research study.

To the guards who let us pass and enter the TUP-Taguig even if it's summer, just
to visit and water our bonsai's located at the school garden, the researchers truly salute
you for all the consideration and understanding.

To our very dear classmates, Leslie, Kim, and Juliet, who has helped the
researchers in the improvement of this research in providing manpower, internet
connection and motivation in succeeding our own research project.

And lastly, to the very outstanding and renowned of all, to the Lord, who has
given them all they need in terms of wisdom and physical needs. In giving us a wonderful
insight about the world’s significance and learning to investigate one of his creations.
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 Technological University of the Philippines
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

APPROVASHEET............................................................................................................ii
ABSTRACT.....................................................................................................................iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT................................................................................................iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS...................................................................................................v
LIST OF FIGURES.............................................................. ...........................................vi
LIST OF TABLES...........................................................................................................vii
INTRODUCTION ………………………………………………………………………5
1.1 Background of the study …………………………………………………….5
1.2 Objectives of this Study
1.2.1 General Objective………………………………………………….6
1.2.2 Specific Objective……………………………….............................6
1.3 Research Questions…………………………………………………………..7
1.4 Significance of this Study…………………………………………………………….7
1.5 Scope and Delimitation of the Study……………........................................................8

REVIEW OF THE RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES…………......................9

2.1 Review of the related Foreign Literature
2.1.1Other Foreign Study ……………………………………...……….11
2.2 Review of the related Local Literature……………………………...………13
2.2.1 Other Local Study………………………………………...………15
2.3 Definition of Terms………………………………………………...……...17

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
3.1 Conceptual Framework………………………………..……………………18
3.2 Narrative…………………………………………………..…..……………19

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY

4.1 Process of Flow chart…………………………………………...…...……...19
4.2 Pre- production Phase………………………………………………..…...…20
4.3 Problem Identification………………………………………………....…...20
4.4 Data Gathering……………………………………………………...……....20
4.5 Production Phase……………………………………………….…………...21
4.6 Output Design……………………………………………………………....21
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

5.1 Tabular Data…………………………………………………………..……23
5.2 Results………………………………………………………………….…..25

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Summary of Findings………………………………………………………26
6.2 Conclusions…………………………………………………..…………….27
6.3 Recommendation……………………………………………….……....….28
BIBLIOGRAPHY
List of References…………………………………………….…………....…..29

APPENDIX A: Gantt chart…………………………………….………...…..…………31

APPENDIX B: Material safety data sheets....................................…………..………....32
A.1 Requirements for M.S.D.S…………..…………..…………....…………..33
 Technological University of the Philippines
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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: A photo showing the Methodology being accomplished by the

researchers

Figure 2: A photo showing the Annona Squamosa branch planted in gravel with
a shaded environment

Figure 3: A photo showing the Annona Squamosa branch planted in soil with an
exposed sunlight environment
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Figure 4: A photo showing the Annona Squamosa seed planted in soil

Figure 5: A photo showing the white spots observed in the Annona Squamosa
branch planted in gravel with a shaded environment

Figure 6: A photo showing the growing leaves of an Annona Squamosa branch planted
in soil with an exposed sunlight environment
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LIST OF TABLES
This section shows all the tabular data gathered in observing the growth of a
bonsai planted in the sand and the other is in the gravel with a sunlight and exposed
environment.

1.
Table1.1 Presents the Tabular data gathered in the planted bonsai (Exposed and
Shaded) and the seed of Annona Squamosa.
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Chapter One

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background
The environmentally friendly miniature model of tree or sometimes called the hybrid
version of planting trees is generating a new method in our agricultural system. This is a
research study that is so beneficial and useful to everybody. Both human and animal
species can benefit in the production of this hybrid version miniature tree and it also
balances our ecological unit. The researchers are looking forward to bring up the change
in this world and as our world is taking its place to modernization, we should also improve
the way were making things. The researchers will begin an alternative method that could
be implied to sustain the consistency of our green planet.

The improved miniature tree can help in the efficient production of crops.
Agronomists and cultivators should fluctuate in the manner of planting trees. As we
civilize, big industries expand and it is developing a worldwide shift in giving products
to our dearest consumers. Forests are eliminated to establish condominiums, and a wide
area for cows, goat and horses are built to have supermarkets, roads and railways. Civil
Engineers are taking up the large role that was once the throne of our agronomist.

But as of today, the researchers are formulating a new series of planting trees
where people should not only focus on the limitation but use it as a power to start a new
one. The researchers started to formulate some recent related researches that can help
support this project study. According to (Rouchy, 2015), “Plants have some other
characteristics just like they do not voluntarily move, though they may grow branches in
a particular direction. Plants remain stationary because they make their own food.” Most
plants branch. Because sunlight, water and air are necessary for photosynthesis, the
branching allows the plant to absorb as much of these necessities as possible. The plant
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use it stores nutrients and serves as a medium for growth. It is an anchor for roots and
also holds water needed by plants for moisture. Soil contains the air, water and food that
provide a suitable place for plants to grow. The properties of soil that affect plant growth
include texture, aeration (i.e., permeability), porosity, water holding capacity and
aggregate size. A vital function of soil is storing and supplying minerals and nutrients
essential for plant life. Soil is important but modernization is now leading to the scarcity
of soil. People can think of a better idea and look for the alternative method and resolve
the problem in the production of crops. This new method of planting, producing and
creating our own and improved way of bonsai making has been developed. This is called
the hybridism of producing fruits.

1.2 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

1.2.1 General Objective:

The main objective of this project study is to design and produce hybrid version
of miniature tree that is producing fruits that requires only the branch of a certain tree or
plant.

1.2.2 Specific Objective:

Specifically, this study aims to achieve the following:

1. to conduct a study of an Annona Squamosa (sugar apple) as a hybrid version of

producing fruits;

2. to identify and compare the growth of the planted Annona Squamosa seed and the
miniature tree planted on a gravel;

3. to possibly produce a miniature tree and how long will it take to produce leaves;

4. to design miniature tree or bonsai making; and

5. to evaluate the results of the study.

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1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

These are the prepared research questions for our project study:

1. Is there any possibility that a twig or old branch would produce leaves?

2. Can a branch produce leaves using gravel or sand only?

3. What are the characteristics of the planted branch with a sunlight exposure and the
other one in a shaded environment?

4. What planted branch will grow and produce leaves the fastest? The branch with
sunlight exposure or the branch that is shaded?

1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This research study on hybrid version of producing fruits is done specifically for the
benefit of the following groups:

Individuals - The hybrid version of producing fruits or "Bonsai making", also enhances
people to be more artistic and creative by thinking of a design that can beautify the
miniature tree.

Environment - The Bonsai or the miniature form of tree is absolutely environmental

friendly that will help in the reduction of carbon dioxide and methane gas. This also helps
us to replant old trees.

Industry- Displaying the miniature trees on their workplace, offices or factories will
cause no harm and will absolutely help them to reduce toxic gas that is coming out of
their machinery.

University- The miniature tree will be placed on the offices of the faculty members and
will surely help professors in the reduction of their stress. It could be their stress reliever
 Technological University of the Philippines
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just by looking at it and inhaling the fresh oxygen that it emits and it is also significant in
boosting one’s mood.

1.5 SCOPE AND DELIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

This study was guided by the following scope and delimitation. The researchers
planted a twig or rarely called, an old branch "bonsai" (in a pot) using only the gravel and
sand which was shaded with a garbage bag to avoid sunlight and air exposure. The
researchers have also planted an old branch (in a separate pot) on a soil but with sunlight
exposure and then will compare the characteristics and the growth of the two branches.
The researchers also planted the Annona Squamosa, also known as sugar apple to
compare the hybrid version miniature tree in an ordinary planting of seed
methodology/procedure.

1.6 DEFINITION OF TERMS

This section provides a wide and accurate meaning for each jargon or also called
as “scientific terms” used in the project study. This will help audiences to better
understand each words used by the researchers.

1. ANNONA SQUAMOSA – or sugles are the fruit of the most commonly

grown Annona trees. The sugar apple varies in height from 10-20 feet with an
open habit of irregular, zigzagging twigs. (Grant, 2004)

2. BONSAI – is an ornamental tree grown in a pot and artificially prevented

from reaching its normal size.

3. GRAVEL - is composed of unconsolidated rock fragments that have a

general particle size range and include size classes from granule- to boulder-sized
fragments.
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4. HYBRID - is a cross between two separate races, plants or cultures. A hybrid

is something that is mixed, and hybrid version is simply mixture.

5. IXORA COCCINEA - is a species of flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family.

6. MINIATURE - a thing that is much smaller than normal, especially a small

replica or model.

7. ROOT PRUNING - is a horticultural and silvicultural practice involving the

selective removal of certain parts of a plant, such as branches, buds, and roots.

8. SPECIMEN - an individual animal, plant, piece of a mineral, etc., used as an

example of its species or type for scientific study or display.
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Chapter Two

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 Review of the Related Foreign Literature

Planting and growing of plants in soil is not very common. Agricultural pursuits
that was formulated by man have increased the knowledge of plant nutrition. He has
learned to plant in different kind of artificial media such as sand, gravel, quartz etc. The
natural habitat for plant is soil. It provides support, nutrients and water. Whenever there
is a sufficient supply available for soil, Plants are not practically to grow without the help
of soil. Still, if a suitable soil is nowhere to be found available, favorable soil maintenance
can be found too costly or if high value of crops with an out-seasoned growth will be
considered, growing of plants is somehow advisable. (McCall, 1970)

Alogarithm of bonsai is based on a formal system in elementary algorithm which

determines the appropriate regular expression cluster with the use of the dynamic index
between positive and negative amino acid sequence samples. Identification from protein
sequences such as the transmembrane regions in protein have been shown to the effective
approach in decision tree algorithms. The index attribution of bonsai in variable regular
expression. It is defined by discrimination resolution between positive and negative
samples at runtime. (C.J. SAVOIE, 2003)

The study of interrelation between human beings and environment through

ecological and psychological philosophy is roughly called the Ecopsychology. The
deliberation strives to create and appreciate the addition of emotional relationship
between individuals and nature by encouraging persons to develop sustainable existence
and resolve disaffection with nature.

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One of the founding fathers of Ecopsychology along with Gomes, Mary and
Kanner, Allen. (Asit was cited in Roszak, 1993). Ecopsychology's main goal is to awaken
the intrinsic appreciation of the environmental interchange which lies inside the
ecological unconscious. (Roszak, 1993).

Bonsai trees have an advantage such as viewing nature therapy that allows routine
and self-induced mental relaxation. Individuals should be accessible to therapy to perform
certain activities like walking and jogging. SCI can be minimized via interfering with
nature therapy that is usually recommended to patients to promote enriched health. It is
also a preventive medicine therapy for healthy but stressed individuals. Exposure to forest
or any other urban green space, plants and flowers etc. have been reported to give relaxing
effects to individuals who have been struggling with physical or mental pressure. (Ochiai,
2017)

2.1.1 Foreign Study

In investigating the work and use of boosting in decision trees, the Natural
Language Processing approach turned out to be very efficient with its discrete features.
Final model in a linear interfusion of respective classifiers built in repetition in meta-
learning algorithm which is rarely called boosting. The classified data of training samples
using a weak learner have assigned an identical weight at the beginning of the principle.
The weak classifier running on the data with a new distribution has a weight increased
with all misclassified samples being boosted. Preceding classifier are being boosted to
process repetition until the misclassified samples stops. (RIcquebourg, 2013)

A very enjoyable and satisfying challenge for an individual is to train and grow
bonsai. In over forty years, my quest and excellence for bonsai have reached to maintain
one indoor bonsai rarely a Dwarf brush cherry. People enjoy their specimens through the
planting of bonsai. It was agreeable that growing bonsai indoors is more difficult than
growing it outdoors and have also realized that bonsai is some vigorous specimens that
should be placed indoors when the winter came because they are robust in subtropical or

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tropical zones. The Dwarf brush cherry have been placed in the bright east corner of my
mother's window in a cold season. It was not in the greenhouse because it has grown
outside during summer. (Valavanis, 2006)

Multiple components with complex structures reside in a plant. Accordingly,

computer graphics creates plant models using processed methods which generates
complicated branching construction with a limited user input. There are two classes
divided in the procedural plant models, local-to-global and global-to-local. (Boudon,
2012)

The Miniaturization landscape of art is a connection of individual forms. A tree

in a pot is often called Bonsai and the art of rock exposition is Suiseki while Kusamono
is a plant accenting. All forms functions distinctively imposing in spheres. The Art of
Landscape Miniaturization issue still not being fully understandable, it is continuing to
become more significant, accounting the active participation of artistic entourage in the
creation process of organic and conceptual art.

In the long run of this project study, the Miniaturization art of Landscape has the
idea to examine bonsai which came from the Chinese mother tongue that was classified
in two parts; “bon” that means tray (container) and “sai” for tree or plant. In conclusion,
the reflection of a certain landscape is through miniature tree or a bunch of trees.

Historically, miniature bonsai was shaped by the far-eastern form depending on a

freely grown tree in nature image. The Japan has a line process and branch arrangement
of trunks which was classified as style of Bonsai. Naka J, Nakamura, Yoshimura, Chan,
Ardle, Kato described the traditional style classification behind bonsai. (Pietraszko,
2008)

2.3 Review of the Related Local Literature

The Pemphis Acidula is the scientific name for Bantigi belonging in the family
of Lythraceae. It was locally known in Ilocos Norte as Ngirad, In Rizal as Kulasi and in

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Tayabas, Cebu as Bantigi and in Palawan as legad. The evergreen shrub known as the
Bantigue as small tree grows up to 10m tall with its trunk short and partly bended with a
diameter of 20-40 cm. Flakes into long strips with the light grey to dark grey-brown color
was deeply fissured as the bark surface. Twigs are sharp-cornered with a rough wood and
leaves having a natural silky hair. Axillary petals of its flower are clawed and is white in
color with capsuled fruits and with thick marginal wings seed.

Bantigue is also planted as an ornamental bonsai. Plants, together with rocky

substances that was harvested in the Philippines was exported to the rock gardens of
Taiwan. In Forest plantations at Indonesia, it was planted as cover crop. Its wood has
many uses such as walking sticks, house posts, tool handles, fence posts and etc. and their
salad contains leaves that was eaten raw. The Bantigue in Philippine reproduce through
seeds and usually cultivates in limestone with large rocks or in corallino rocks. (Florido,
2004)

Geographical business environment is one of the complete reasonable

manner that the investors look up to for a complete urgent advantages and safety
guarantees. The scientific progress is completely integrated with a significant impact to
the development of contemporary technologies. Business exercises deals with the
consequences of global competition. Suggestive changes in distribution is an approach to
all the resource encompassing human ones. (Tomsik, 2007)

A dinky field is desirable when comes to landscaping even though it was

very challenging. The development of root and shoot systems are limited in planting trees
in small region. Also, it includes decent selection of plant material to guarantee a well-
conditioned surrounding for the plant. Limited areas are best for landscaping such as
containers, wells, decks, courtyards and etc. There are many different styles of container
materials that can be used such as woods, plastic, barrels and metals but should contain a
fine drainage capable of growing plants in a good environment. Drainage holes are
present in most commercial containers. (Fare)

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Minimum of 6 or more hours of sunlight is needed for a plant tree to

eventually bear fruits during the cultivating season. 3 feet below the ground is the
maximum depth of soil needed for plant trees to reproduce fruits. While 1 to 11⁄2 feet (30
to 50 cm) is the maximum height of a fully grown fruit trees planted in a good top soil
with an adequate irrigation management. (Carson, 2016)

Down grade soil was somehow suggested for planting trees because it upgrades
stability. (Lyons et al. 1987), it also increases moisture for trees. (Koshi 1960;
VanderSchaaf and South 2003), forest plots with plain mechanical planting (Slocum and
Maki 1956; Harrington and Howell 1998), herbicide damage was reduced. (Reighard et
al. 1985), Grafted plant reduced sprouting hiding the graft union (Watson 2005), Young
seed reproducing seedlings on plant depth was investigated through recent researches.

Magnolia grandiflora has a root system with cutting propagated tap roots from the
end of the cut stem whereas roots along the inhume part of the stem in the Red maple
produces 60 first order lateral roots ahead of four cm inhume portion of the stem beneath
conceptual conditions considering the poor propagation condition of some trees
producing oaks. (Gilman, 2013)

2.3.1 Local Study

Further investigations and researches are gathered under the web
internet to better prove the efficiency and feasibility of our project study to our
environment.

According to Manrique, the 42nd annual Bonsai society competition was

gathered here in the Philippines for the general public. Different bonsai ambassadors from
Asian countries namely Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore started the traditional
ribbon cutting in Ayala Triangle.

Bonsai is the modest definition of plant cultivated in a container and bonsai is

more like a houseplant. An art using plants and trees with the power of sculpturing in

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concrete. The blossom of these magnificent species plant needs a skilled worker to
establish a flourishing one. (Everegreen Works, 2017)

Bonsai are not typically a houseplant because they should stay outdoors all year
long. Also, they are moderate climate plants that requires period of hibernation. Juniper
is same as bonsai as an evergreen plant. Meanwhile, indoor bonsai are bounded by
tropical and subtropical species and has the tendency to grow faster. Bonsai with roots
exposed outdoors must be treated carefully over winter or cold climates to prevent roots
from dying reaching its killing temperature. (Walston, Everegreen Works, 2017)

The Pemphis Acidula is a cultivating plant species appertained as shrub, in

subtropical regions namely the Philippines. Its trunk size reach around 1.5 meters in
circumference. A toughened character and shape of trunks is the output of strong winds
and huge waves that wipes across the reefs. Beautiful bonsai material creates a seasonal
change in climate condition and growth. (Leon, 2000)

The Province of Davao Oriental in Mindanao Island also known as Hamiguitan

range with an extensive diminutive of bonsai forestland in the Philippine archipelago
located between 6° 40′ 01″ to 6° 46′ 60″ N and 126° 09′ 02″ to 126° 13′ 01″ E. The
Hamiguitan towers with its alp having an altitude of 1600 m asl covering almost 6834
hectares.

The slope gradient of the region has an inclined plane with a coarse terrain
voluminous headwaters with various huge rivers. Its aquatic life was observed to attain a
clear and bountiful standard that supports its freshwater quality. The Philippine
archipelago has a typhoon-free region where there is no declared wet or dry season
because the weather stays moderate all year characterized by an unchanging allocation of
humidity, temperature, air and rainfall. (Protected Area Suitability Assessment, 1998).

The International conservation has pronounced the region of the Philippines as

one of the "hotspots" needing conservation and protection due to the appearance of

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diverse ecosystems with domestic, endangered and distinctive specie of flora and fauna.
(Protected Area Suitability Assessment, 1998).

The wildlife sanctuary of the Republic Act No. 9303 was the division proclaimed
to protect the area of the Philippines written by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
(Amoroso, 2016)

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Chapter Three

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

3.1 Narrative

The project study "Design and Production of a Miniature Tree" was founded by
the theory of Diane Relf with his scholarly journal named the "Art of Bonsai" from the
Virginia State University incorporating a branch/twig to be a hybrid miniature tree with
different styles and textures, shapes and color.

It holds that one of the art forms in ancient Asian culture was originated in China
and was also developed by the Japanese that have collected wild trees and naturally
dwarfed it as the first bonsai to be formed as a miniature tree.

A tree that is placed in a container or pot is called "Bonsai" which imitates a

natural tree but in a miniature form with the appearance of a natural old tree. The
maximum length of a bonsai can range about 5 inches to 30 inches in size. There are
certain plants that can be effective in turning into a miniature tree or bonsai. In producing
a realistic bonsai tree, all parts should be in present including the branches, trunks, twigs,
leaves and eventually fruits. Bonsai usually have the physical characteristics with small
leaves depending on its branch.

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3.1 Conceptual Framework

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

KNOWLEDGE

IDENTIFICATION
1. Process of
stimulating a OF PROBLEM
miniature hybrid
version of a tree.
2. Designing the right
DATA
branch and fruit to
plant. GATHERING
3. Knowledge in
Agricultural
planting. MATERIAL
4. Knowledge in Miniature
bonsai making. SELECTION
tree
HARDWARE /
MATERIAL TESTING OF

REQUIREMENTS SELECTED

1. Specified pot /
container EMPLOYMENT OF
2.2. Different PROCESS
levels of
3. fragmented
4. gravel.
3. Sand 5.
4. Plastic cover FURTHER
6.
5. Strainer DEVELOPMENT
6. Brush

Figure 7: A flow chart showing the conceptual/theoretical framework of this study

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Chapter Four

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY

This chapter deals with the contrivance of a miniature or hybrid version of a

plant/tree. The conceptual framework serves as the guide in the designed project. The
researchers gathered tools and materials needed to construct this project study. Below is
the flow chart for the study’s methodology. After which are the discussions of each phase.

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
PRE-
PRODUCTION
DATA GATHERING PHASE

MATERIAL SELECTION

PRODUCTION
TESTING OF SELECTED PHASE
BRANCH/WOOD

EMPLOYMENT OF PROCESS
POST-
PRODUCTION
FURTHER DEVELOPMENT
PHASE

Figure 8: A flow chart showing the research methodology of this study

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4.1.1 Pre – Production Phase

In the pre-production phase, the researchers had to

1. Identify the problem;

2. Gather the necessary data;
3. Employ, conceptualized and design the miniature tree; and
4. Select the appropriate material.
4.1.2 Problem Identification

There are certain problems that the researchers of this project study encountered
especially the duration of time needed of this research to prove its feasibility and the
heredity of the atmosphere because of the climate change.

Along with this is the calculation of the amount of fragmented gravel and sand to
be used in where the specific tree/branch was planted.

4.1.3 Data Gathering

The researchers gathered data by conducting an investigation through the internet

about specific information about related researches and journals and all of its history. The
researchers gathered important information about the feasibility of a plant to live without
soil and how we will be able to produce fruits with it. The researchers browsed the
internet, look for related scholarly journals and also watched videos about a miniature
tree originated from Penjing, China on the 6th century onward.

4.1.4 Production Phase

In the production phase, the researchers had to:

1. Test the selected branch / wood; and

2. Employ the research process in the project study.

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4.1.5 Testing of selected branch

To be able to achieve a successful miniature tree, the researchers tested and

evaluated whether the given branch is applicable in the research study. The researchers
used a dead fig that is too dry because of its exposure to sunlight

4.1.6 Output Design

To be able to start designing the miniature tree, the researchers looked for a
specific branch of a tree. It should be not too old and also has to be 5cm- 10cm long. The
branch should be properly brushed on the end, edges, to its body and tip. This is the way
the researchers assured that the particular branch is properly clean and ready for
hybridism. The particular branch that the researchers have picked should be a tree that
bears fruit so that it may benefit everybody.

The researchers are prepared a desirable pot for our specific fig of tree and also
preparing for different classes of fragmented and strained gravel and powder sand. The
gravel was properly washed as well as the sand. These all contributes on how the
researchers will be able to achieve a miniature tree from its normal size.

When the container and branch were already set up, the researchers
arranged the order of the materials needed in this study. The researchers have also
prepared the container and put the strainer at the bottom of branch and container. Solid
particles of gravel will support the branch on the deepest layer. The top layer contains the
most fragmented gravel as well as the powder sand.

The study hasundergone a very critical process where in the researchers

have to cover the branch when it finally reaches 2 months old. The researchers have
checked the sand as well as the gravel if it is consistent with its wetness. The sand
remained wet but be very careful to not apply water to the branch. Eventually, the branch

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produced white cottons surrounding it saying that the study is really successful. The white
particles was eliminated using a brush.

When the researchers reached the growing stage, approximately 2-3

months, white spots were observed in the branch and noticed that those spots are getting
so numerous. The researchers started to uncover it and maintaining the wetness of gravel
and sand into it. The miniature tree started to grow leaves and this time, it is finally ready
in construction of its design. The researchers have cut its leaves edges to form curvilinear
design on its leaves and eventually to create a successful miniature hybrid version
compared to a normal tree size and have waited until it bears fruit.

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Chapter Five

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The purpose of this research is to design and produce a miniature tree using a
branch, specifically a twig on a separate pot with gravel and sand to produce a miniature
hybrid version of growing trees that the researchers will eventually compare to the normal
way of planting and growing trees.

This chapter presents the analysis and interpretation of data gathered that
would answer the proposed research questions or sub problems.

Tabular Data of Annona Squamosa ( Sugar Apple)

WEEK NO. Bonsai (SHADED) Bonsai (EXPOSED) SEED

7 spots 2.5 cm 3.5 cm
8 spots 3.5 cm 4.5 cm
9 spots 3.9 cm 5.2 cm
10 spots 8.5 cm 14 cm
11 spots 10 cm 14.5 cm
12 spots 11 cm 15.2 cm

Table1.1 Presents the Tabular data gathered in the planted bonsai (Exposed and
Shaded) and the seed of Annona Squamosa.

Problem 5.1: Is there any possibility that a twig or old branch would produce leaves?

5.1.1 Shaded Environment

Based on the researchers’ observation, the branch planted on a container with

gravel and has a shaded environment had only grown white spots because it was stuck

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at the stage of bonsai spotting (white spots). No changes occurred from week 7 to week
12. Only white spots are present but there are no leaves observed to the branch’s body.

5.1.2 Sunlight Environment

From week 7, the branch planted in a container with sand and with an exposed
sunlight environment has 3.5 cm length and reached 11 cm from week 12. From 2.5cm
in week 7 reaches 8.5 cm in week 10 has already 6 cm increased length and from week
10 to week 12, the leaves increased 11 cm. The growth of the leaves increased 2.5 cm
length in just 3 weeks.

Problem 5.2: Can a branch produce leaves using gravel or sand only?

5.2.1 Shaded Environment

From week 7 to 12, we have noticed that the bonsai planted in the
container with gravel and in a shaded environment has grown white spots in the
body of the branch but no leaves produced until it reaches week 12.

5.2.2 Sunlight Exposure

Based on the observation from week 7 to week 12, the bonsai planted in
the sand with an exposed sunlight environment has 2.5 centimeters length of its
leaves until it reaches 11 centimeters in the week 12.

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Problem 5.3: What are the characteristics of the planted branch?

5.3.1 Shaded environment

After six (6) weeks of the research observation, the bonsai planted in a container
with gravel in a shaded environment has white spots from week 7 and has no changes
happened on its body until it reaches week 12 but still doesn’t produce leaves.

5.3.2 Sunlight exposure

The researchers started to assemble and prepare the branch or twig and the
materials needed in this research in the fifth week of the semester. We have observed that
the bonsai planted in a container with sand and has an exposed sunlight environment has
healthy leaves growing on it and has fully developed branch that will potentially produce
fruits.

Problem 5.4: What planted branch will grow and produce leaves the fastest?

5.4.1 Shaded Environment

The tabular data shows that the bonsai has not undergo any changes since week
7 to week 12. It only produces white spots to the body of the branch but no leaves
observed. The researchers started to plant the bonsai and manage the materials in the fifth
week (June 26, 2017).

5.4.2 Sunlight Exposure

Based on the researcher’s tabular data, the bonsai planted in the sand with an
exposed sunlight environment on week 7 has 2.5 cm to 11 cm from week 12. On the first
3 weeks, the growth and the length of the leaves increased in 6.4 cm and on the succeeding
weeks, it increased.

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Chapter Six

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The purpose of the study was to present a Design and Production of

Miniature Tree. This chapter presents the summary of findings, conclusions and
recommendations.

6.1 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

6.1.1 Bonsai (Shaded Environment)

From the first week, the researchers have observed white spots but on the week
two it shows what we call a “hit” it started to have a leaves. On week three up to week
seven the “hit” start to get dark and gone until it shows only white spots, continuously
up to week 12.

Week 7 Week 8-9 Week 10-12

Figure 6: A photo showing the improvement of the Annona Squamosa branch planted
in gravel with a shaded environment from week seven to twelve

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6.1.2 Bonsai (Exposed Sunlight Environment)

The researchers started to plant the branch in the fifth week of the semester. The
researchers have also observed the changes occurred in the week 7 and noticed that the
branch with an exposed sunlight environment started to produce leaves with the length of
2.5 cm and after a week, the length of the leaves sums up to 1 cm. And on week 9, because
of the heavier load of homework’s and assignments, since the researchers visit it once
week, they have a lesser time to visit and water it. It grew a very few lengths which is
3.9 cm. And in week 10, it reached a growth and increased 4.6 cm. In week 11 to 12 it
continually grows and adds 2.0 cm long.

Week 6 Week 7-10 Week 11-12

Figure 8: A photo showing the improvement of growing leaves of an Annona Squamosa

branch planted in soil with an exposed sunlight environment from week 6 to twelve

6.1.3 Seed (Planted in Natural Way)

The researchers started to plant the seed at the fifth week and started to grow on
the 7th week. From week 7 to week 8 it sprouted 4.5 cm. On week 9 it grows and added a
length 1.8 cm and from week 10 the leaves grow faster with a length of 14 cm and a week
after due to rainy season the seed seems to stop its growth and added only 0.5 cm. On

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week 12, the growth of the leaves has reached the length 15.2 cm. It is continuously
increasing with the natural way of planting and growing of Annona Squamosa or the
Sugar Apple.

Week 7 Week 8-11

Figure 9: A photo showing the improvement of growing leaves in the Annona

Squamosa seed planted in soil from week seven to twelve

6.2 CONCLUSIONS
The researchers have concluded that the Annona Squamosa should be the plant
species to be chosen as the main subject matter of this research study because of its fast
growth rate. To quickly identify changes, the researchers have used two branches and a
seed to differentiate the growth and the fast cultivating process of both.

The branch planted in gravel with a shaded environment remained spotting from
the 7th week of July until the last week of August. Its ability to grow was stopped by the
barrier shading it which is the plastic cover. Also, the gravel is containing a high
temperature with every grain that suddenly weakened the branch which adds the risk of
the branch's ability to grow.

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The branch planted in soil with a sunlight environment continually grows as it

approaches the last week of August. The researchers have observed some improvements
in the length, color and texture of its leaves.

Therefore, the researchers have come up that sunlight is a

crucial need in planting trees. Plants gather energy from the sun to support its tiny cells
in producing leaves, specifically fruits. Plants need a stabilized environment. Bonsai is a
critical plant that is too sensitive with its environment. The climate is one factor to
consider when planting miniature version, bonsai trees.

6.3 RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the conclusions formulated by the researchers, the
following are hereby recommended to further enhance the feasibility of a miniature
hybrid version of planting trees.

The results vividly states that plants cannot live by branch or seed
alone but by the help of sunlight and water. To be able to conduct the experiment
successfully, the researchers should look upon the needs of a particular branch
specifically plant and use the right methods and materials that will become beneficial on
the growth of the specific plant. The researchers can also add fertilizers on the given
experiment to add swiftness in the plants growth.

The researchers still advises to use gravel in the plant even though it
doesn’t work. It is because branch in gravel should not be shaded for it will add up so
much heat temperature surrounding the branch that will cause a slightly drought in the
plant’s base making it die and can’t produce leaves.

The researchers also prefers a particular plant/branch to be planted

on sand with a sunlight environment because of the nutrients it gathers from the heat of
the sun where the photosynthesis occurs that makes it revolve from the natural way

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genotype circulation but with different phenotype or physical characteristics as of the

normal trees. Also, air molecules which is the CO2 gas that was emitted by human and
animals is also beneficial to the plants growth while it continually exchange it for O2 gas
which is also beneficial to humans and other species. A plant with a surrounded
environment that continually interacts with it has the most possible way to make the
research study feasible.

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LIST OF REFERENCES
Amoroso, V. B. (2016). Hamiguitan Range: A sanctuary for native flora . saudi journal
of biological science.

Boudon, F. (2012). Interactive design of bonsai tree models .

Burke, J. V. (2013). The bonsai and the gardener: using flow data to better assess
financial sector leverage . Economic Papers 500.

C.J. SAVOIE, N. K. (2003). Use of Bonsai decision trees for the identification of
potencial MHC class I peptide epitote motifs.

Carson, J. (2016). Fruit Trees: Planting and Care of Young Trees .

Fare, D. C. (n.d.). Trees to Plant In Containers or Wells.

Florido, H. B. (2004). Research Information series on Ecosystems. Species for Bonsai

Material.

Gilman, E. F. (2013). Planting Depth Affects Root Form of Three Shade Tree Cultivars
in Containers.

Hermann, C. (2013). Integral Ecopsychological Investigation of Bonsai Principles,

Meaning and Healing.

Lenz, N. (2001). Bonsai Enthusiast.

Lenz, N. (2001). Bonsai Enthusiast.

McCall, W. W. (1970). Growing plants without soil.

Ochiai, H. (2017). Effects of Visual Stimulation with Bonsai Trees on Adult Male
Patients with Spinal Cord Injury .

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Pietraszko, K. (2008). Bonsai as reflection of nature’s beauty: styles and aesthetic value
.

RIcquebourg, Y. (2013). Boosting bonsai trees for handwritten/printed text

discrimination. . Why Boosting bonsai trees?

Tomsik, P. (2007). The Bonsai management.

Valavanis, W. N. (2006). THE CULTURE & TRAINING OF DWARF BRUSH

CHERRY BONSAI .

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APPENDIX A: GANTT CHART

This section shows the exact performed date of the evaluation of this project study
and the improvement on each and every week in gathering results from the tabular data.

Figure 3: A table showing the Gantt chart from January to April 2017 of the
research’s study

Figure 4: A table showing the Gantt chart from June to August 2017 of the
research’s study

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Project Study
Third Semester 2018
Month January February March April
Week
Task # 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
Research for
related literature
in Local and
foreign
Revision of
chapter 1 to 5
Turn it in
seminar
Evaluation of
output
Final revision
Defense

Figure 3: A table showing the Gantt chart from January to April 2018 of the research’s
study

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