Study on Nutrient Removal (NPK) from Different Parts of Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) and West Coast Tall (WCT) Cultivars of Coconut

Aims: This research was carried out to study the nutrients removal by different parts of coconut. This palm takes up a lot of nutrients from the ground for growth and development. Removal of nutrients varies from different components of palm. Hence this was carried to study the nutrient removal by different parts of coconut to improve growth.

Study Design: The study was carried out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with 2 factors (A and B) and 4 replications.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out at Coconut Orchard Department of Plantation and Spices Horticultural College & Research Institute Tamil Nādu Agricultural University Coimbatore during 2021-2022.

Methodology: Here the major nutrient (NPK) removal of two varieties Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) and West Coast Tall (WCT) were estimated. The nutrient removal was estimated by collecting plant sample before fertilizer application(initial) and 3rd and 6th months after fertilizer application. These samples were dried powdered and analysed with respective procedures and instruments.

Results: The result revealed that the removal of nutrients from parts of coconut is increased from initial (without fertilizer application) to 3rd and 6th months after fertilizer application in both Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) and West Coast Tall (WCT). There is more removal of potassium compared to nitrogen and phosphorus. The percentage of nutrients removed was 13.52,18.69,21.22 during initial, 3rd month and 6th month in COD as such 16.22,19.8,22.44 in WCT respectively. Comparing with Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) and West Coast Tall (WCT) removes more nutrients.

Conclusion: The present study revealed that there was enormous removal of potassium from both varieties Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) and West Coast Tall (WCT). So, there is a need to increase in the potassium fertilizer application from normal recommended dose or potassium enriched nutrient application is recommended.