Exploring the Potential of Novoecijanotake (Collybia Reinakeana) Cultivation Alongside Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa)

Abstract

Novoecijanotake is an edible mushroom with nutritional and medicinal benefits, while lettuce is a widely consumed leafy vegetable. The research aimed to determine the effects of intercropping these two crops on growth, yield, soil fertility, and economic viability. A field experiment was conducted in Barangay Biga, Gumaca, Quezon, from March 2024 to January 2025, using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three treatments: intercropping lettuce and Novoecijanotake, lettuce alone, and Novoecijanotake alone. Growth parameters, yield, soil conditions, and return on investment were measured. Results showed that lettuce grown alone had the highest yield and better growth compared to intercropping, where competition for resources limited lettuce growth. Mushroom growth was similar in both intercropping with lettuce and Novoecijanotake and Novoecijanotake alone, indicating that intercropping did not significantly benefit mushroom development. The economic analysis revealed that monocropping lettuce had the highest ROI (425%), while intercropping had a lower profit margin (50%). Overall, the study concluded that intercropping lettuce with Novoecijanotake is not ideal due to their differing growth requirements and competition for essential resources, while the mushrooms contributed to nutrient cycling. Future studies are recommended to explore other mushroom species or optimize intercropping techniques to improve compatibility and productivity.