Effect of fertigation on the productivity of coconut (Cocos nucifera) in Brahmaputra valley region of Asom

J.C. NATH; K.K. DEKA; H.P. MAHESWARAPPA

doi:10.59797/ija.v61i4.4400

Authors

J.C. NATH
K.K. DEKA
H.P. MAHESWARAPPA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59797/ija.v61i4.4400

Keywords:

Coconut, Copra yield, Fertigation, Productivity, Net returns

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during 200910 to 201213 to study the effect of fertigation on the productiv- ity of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) at the Horticultural Research Station, Kahikuchi, Asom. Application of 25, 50, 75 and 100% of recommended NPK through drip irrigation system was compared with the soil application of recom- mended NPK as well as control with no fertilizer application. Fertilizers were given through drip-irrigation system during October to April in 10 equal splits at 20-day intervals. Application of 75% NPK through drip irrigation re- sulted in significantly higher number of functional leaves, bunches/palm, number of female flowers and nut setting percentage compared to the control and the other fertigation treatments, except 100% NPK through drip irrigation. The mean nut and copra yield/palm over 4 years was significantly higher with the application of 75% NPK through drip irrigation than the control and the other fertigation treatments, but on a par with 100% NPK through drip irriga- tion. The net returns in 75% NPK through drip irrigation were also at par with the application of 100% NPK through drip irrigation, but application of 75% NPK through drip irrigation resulted in significantly highest benefit: cost ratio compared to all the other treatments. The study indicated the possibility of saving 25% of the recommended fertil- izers by adopting fertigation which ensures higher productivity in coconut.

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