The husk contains several layers of papery tissue that enclosed the flower organs, and later the grain kernels. It is a natural material traditionally used to make dolls, mats, figures, and platters. It has an interesting surface structure and natural color. Corn husks can be easily patterned into desired shapes in its damp state. When dried, their shapes and color are stable. Commercially, farmers harvest the corn only.

Today, however, farmers are advised to gather the corn husks and sell them to flower shops in the locality as they can be used as materials for novelty items. Specifically, the husks are transformed into attractive decorations after having painted with vibrant paints. The creative mind and skilful hand can make this material come to life.

It used to be that corn husk was usually considered a waste that almost everybody did not want. In many parts of the country, corn husk is either simply left to rot or burn.

The problem with burning corn husk, however, is that it poses health and environmental hazards to people. For one thing, the smoke from burning this husk is irritating to the eyes. Secondly, the smell of burning corn husk induces difficulty in breathing. Even worse is that it becomes more hazardous when burn along the highways.

On the other hand, when dumped along the roads, heaps of corn husk become eye sores. These heaps of corn husks would be there for a long time as they are difficult to decompose.

The time has come, however, when this once considered waste can be turned into a valuable resource.

According to Mrs. Ramas, the price varies depending on the quality of the husks. Clean husks from Bt corn sell as high as P20 per sack, while the unclean ones from the traditional counterparts command a price between P10-15 per sack.

Collecting the husks is not expensive. The farmer and his family can do this job during their free time. Additional income is desirable. So, do not burn those money-smelling husks, make them usable, instead.

For more information, please call or visit Mrs. Rue R. Ramas of the Corn Husk Association of the Philippines, Inc., V.G. Rivera Farm, National Highway, Lagao, General Santos City; telefax 0833020444, mobile phone 09179515364 or email at rain at gsc.weblinq.com