Problems and Issues of Tropical Coconut Cultivation
Avani.Satheesan, BSc Agriculture (Hons)
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore
Abstract
A complicated web of issues threatens the productivity and long-term viability of tropical coconut agriculture. The health and vitality of coconut palms are seriously threatened by illnesses including Rhincosporium Palm Leaf Spot, Lethal Yellowing Disease, and infestations by coconut mites. The fragility of coconut crops is exacerbated by the increasing effects of climate change, which show up as rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns. In coastal areas, where coconut farming is common, soil erosion and saline intrusion provide additional challenges that reduce the resilience of coconut trees.
The use of monoculture techniques, which are common in coconut farming, depletes the nutrients in the soil and increases vulnerability to pests and illnesses. Inadequate management of water and nutrients in agricultural operations makes these problems worse and may even hinder the growth of coconuts. Coconut cultivation is made less profitable by urbanisation and market complexities including price swings and limited market access. Adoption of sustainable practices is hampered by limited access to contemporary farming technologies, financial constraints, and unstable land tenure, which further impedes long-term investments. To strengthen the resilience and sustainability of tropical coconut cultivation in the face of various adversities, a comprehensive strategy that includes strong research initiatives, widespread technology dissemination, supportive policies, and community engagement is essential in navigating this complex landscape.
Keywords: Tropical coconut cultivation, challenges, diseases, pests, climate change, soil erosion, salinity intrusion, monoculture, nutrient management, water management, urbanization, market fluctuations, technology access, financial constraints, land tenure, resilience, sustainability.
