Sustainable thatching materials production from nipa (nypa fruticans) in Bohol, Philippines

Abstract

Nipa (Nypa fruticans), a true mangrove palm is one of the valued resources in the coastal areas of the Philippines. It has numerous economic uses, such as: production of sap for wine and vinegar, and the use of its leaves as thatching materials for rural houses, green sheds, rest cottages and other small buildings, among others. However, its production and utilization practices vary greatly from area to area. This study examines the production practices and yield of nipa in the province of Bohol, Philippines. The study shows that nipa is more utilized for shingles production other than any other uses. A mature nipa plantation can have an average of 17,233 mature plants per ha. These plants are capable of producing an average of 51,148 shingles per year. On a per site class basis, the potential production is 80,233, 52,964 and 32,243 shingles for good, average and poor sites, respectively. The study also indicates that long harvest cycles of nipa increase the percentage of wastage due to over maturing of fronds. Shorter harvest cycles yield higher mature fronds that facilitate the growth of juvenile fronds due to reduced competition for space among the nipa leaves. At least 2 to 3 juvenile fronds are left per plant during harvests and based on fronds reproduction, a 3‐month harvest cycle would be best for nipa stands. This would enable frequent cleaning and release of maturing fronds from competition for space and would also prevent over maturing of fronds.