REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

Department of Education
PUBLIC TECHNICAL-VOCATIONAL
HIGH SCHOOLS

COMPETENCY-BASED
LEARNING MATERIAL
Second Year

AGRICULTURAL CROP
PRODUCTION NC I
(COCONUT)
Unit of Competency: SUPPORT AGRONOMIC CROP WORK AND IRRIGATION
Module No. 6 Module Title: Producing Coconut
CONTENTS

MODULE VI
WHAT IS THIS MODULE ABOUT.............................................................1
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?.......................................................................1
WHAT DO YOU ALREADY KNOW?...........................................................1
LESSON 1
SELECT THE IDEAL SITE FOR PLANTING COCONUT..............................1
WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?..........................................................1
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?....................................................................1
LET US STUDY.....................................................................................1
LET US REMEMBER............................................................................1
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?.....................................................1
LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED.........................................1
RESOURCES........................................................................................1
REFERENCES......................................................................................1
LESSON 2
PREPARE PLANTING MATERIALS............................................................1
WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?..........................................................1
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?....................................................................1
LET US STUDY.....................................................................................1
LET US REMEMBER............................................................................1
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?.....................................................1
LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED.........................................1
RESOURCES........................................................................................1
REFERENCES......................................................................................1
LESSON 3
PREPARE THE LAND AND PLANT THE COCO SEEDLING........................1
WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?..........................................................1
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?....................................................................1
LET US STUDY.....................................................................................1
LET US REMEMBER............................................................................1
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?.....................................................1
LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED.........................................1
RESOURCES........................................................................................1
REFERENCES......................................................................................1
LESSON 4
FERTILIZE, WEED AND CULTIVATE........................................................1
WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?..........................................................1
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?....................................................................1
LET US STUDY.....................................................................................1
LET US REMEMBER............................................................................1
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?.....................................................1
LET’ S APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED...........................................1
RESOURCES........................................................................................1
REFERENCE........................................................................................1

i
LESSON 5
CONTROL INSECT PESTS AND DISEASES..............................................1
WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?..........................................................1
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?....................................................................1
LET US STUDY.....................................................................................1
LET US REMEMBER............................................................................1
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?.....................................................1
LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED.........................................1
RESOURCES........................................................................................1
REFERENCES......................................................................................1
LESSON 6
HARVEST, MARKET AND KEEP FARM RECORDS AND ACCOUNTS.........1
WHAT IS THE LESSON ABOUT?...........................................................1
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?....................................................................1
LET US STUDY.....................................................................................1
LET US REMEMBER............................................................................1
HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?.....................................................1
LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED.........................................1
RESOURCES........................................................................................1
REFERENCES......................................................................................1
POST-TEST.............................................................................................1
KEY TO CORRECTION.............................................................................1

ii
 MODULE VI

QUALIFICATION TITLE : AGRICULTURAL CROP PRODUCTION NC 1

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : SUPPORT AGRONOMIC CROP WORK AND
IRRIGATION
MODULE TITLE : PRODUCING COCONUT
NOMINAL DURATION : 200 HOURS
WHAT IS THIS MODULE ABOUT

The module covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required in

selecting the ideal site for planting coconut, preparing planting materials,
preparing the land and planting the coco seedlings, fertilizing, weeding,
and cultivating, controlling insect pests and diseases, harvesting and
keeping farm records and accounts.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

Upon completion of this module, you should be able to:

1. select the ideal site for planting coconut;
2. prepare planting materials;
3. prepare the land and plant the coco seedlings;
4. fertilizer, weed and cultivate;
5. control of insect pests and diseases; and
6. harvest, market and keep farm records and accounts.

WHAT DO YOU ALREADY KNOW?

Let’s find out what you already know about coconut production. Read
and understand the questions below. Select the best answer then write it
in your notebook.
1. What type of soil is best suited to coconut production?
a. clay soil c. loam soil
b. sandy seashore d. sandy loam soil
2. Which spacing is best for planting coconut?
a. 10x10 meters c. 12x12 meters
b. 10x12 meters d. 10x15 meters
3. In acidic soil it is advisable to add
a. commercial fertilizer c. rock phosphate
b. lime d. organic fertilizer
4. The process by which dried leaves/grasses are placed at the
base of the young coconut to protect their roots.
 a. cover cropping c. shading
b. mulching d. weeding
5. Which of the following stage of spike moth insects inflict
serious damage in coconut?
a.larvae or caterpillar stage c. egg stage
b. butterfly stage d. beetle stage
6. Which of the following insects with small, dark blue in color
are found on the undersides of the leaflets.
a. longwinged planthoppers c. bagworm
b. lacewing bug d. leaf floder
7. It is considered the most destructive disease of coconut in the
country.
a. bud rot c. shoot rot
b. cadang-cadang d. leaf spot
8. What particular part of the coconut does slug caterpillar fed on?
a. trunk c. nuts
b. leaves d. flower
9. Which of these diseases is common to coconut.
a. shoot rot c. bud rot
b. leaf spot d. cadang-cadang
10. Which of the rodent species is the Philippine ricefield rat?
a. rattus norveqicus c. rattus arqentiventer
b. rattus, rattus mindanen d. rattus exulans
11. The most common tool in harvesting coconut.
a. short scythe-shaped knife c. bamboo
b. bolo d. rope
12. The first stage of the life cycle of insects after leaving the egg.
a. larva c.egg
b. pupa d. caterpillar
13. Harvesting ripe nuts is done with an interval of
a. 2-4 months c. 2-3 months
b. 2-5 months d. 3-4 months
14. Which fertilizer induces root development, early bearing and
fruit setting?
a. nitrogen c. muriate of potash
b. phosphorous d. potassium
15. What particular condition is best to apply the first half of
the required amount of fertilizer of coconut?
a. start of the dry season c. peak of dry season
b. start of rainy season d. peak of wet season

4
5
LESSON 1

SELECT THE IDEAL SITE FOR PLANTING COCONUT

WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?

This lesson provides students with knowledge, skills and values in selecting
appropriate site for coconut production.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

Upon completion of this module you should be able to:

1. select the appropriate site for coconut production;
2. identify the site accessible to road, transportation, water supply and market; and
3. determine the soil pH level and nutrient content of the soil.

LET US STUDY

Let Us Define

Lime – a dry powder consisting essentially of calcium hydroxide that

is made by treating quicklime with water.
Acidic soil – soil that has a pH level of less than 7.0
Tropical Region – a hot or temperate place
Palm tree – any of the family of mostly tropical or subtropical
monocotyledon oil trees.
pH – degree of acidity or alkalinity of the soil

In the Philippines, coconut (cocus nucifera) grows well in almost all types of soil
which are well-drained. Sandy seashores are suitable for their cultivation because the
soil in the seashores receive soil nutrients from higher places. Rainfall in higher places
sinks into the soil making its way towards the sea, carrying with it dissolved materials.
Generally, coconut planted along seashores is found to have more fruits with
thicker meat.
Coconut can be planted in hilly areas up to 5,000 ft. above sea level as long as
there is enough water supply, accessible to road and market and with enough well-
drained soil to hold the roots.
Coconut is a perennial plant with harvested marketable nuts either as tender
nuts (7-8 month-old) or mature nuts (11 ½ - 12 month-old). Average annual yield of 80-
150 nuts per tree or 2-4 tons/ha of copra (dried meat) is attained under favorable
environmental conditions, depending on the plant genetic material. Also, under said
condition flowering starts within 4-5 years (dwarf and tall hybrids).
The coconut palm consumes relatively large amount of potassium and
magnesium and therefore, where necessary, a fertilizer mixture rich in these materials
should be used. In addition, rock phosphate should also be applied. In very acidic soils,

6
palm may also be benefited from lime. The west coast soils are explained as usually
fairly fertile and therefore need less fertilizer than the east coast soil.
Commonly, the crop is not irrigated or rain fed, except for seed where irrigation
during dry periods (monthly rainfall lower than 150mm) is desirable for stable nut
production throughout the year.

How to Measure Soil pH

The degree of acidity or alkalinity of a soil can be determined by the use of

indicator paper. If a sample of soil, say a teaspoonful, is shaken with water and a piece
of indicator paper is added, the color will indicate the pH or intensity of the acidity or
alkalinity. If a strip of indicator paper is dipped into the solution, it will give a definite
coloration; from this you get an idea of the soil’s acidity or alkalinity. Try this
experiment with indicator paper, using water, add lime and then note any change in
pH, as shown by a change in color of the indicator paper. For example on universal
indicator paper, red colors indicate strong acidity; brown, acidic; and green, alkaline.
If a soil is very acidic, lime can be added to correct this acidity.

Soil Sampling and Soil Analysis

Soil sampling and soil analysis are given important considerations in coconut
production. Coconut prefers fertile and well drained soils with a minimum depth of 75
cm and with high water-holding capacity (at least 30% clay content).
The palm tolerates soil pH from 5.0 – 8.0. For optimum growth, however, a pH
range of 5.5 – 6.5 is ideal.
Soil sampling and soil analysis is important to determine the pH level of the soil
and the nutrient present in the soil. Results of the analysis will be the basis of fertilizer
application.

Steps on Proper Soil Sampling

1. Make a map of the area showing sampling areas (SA).

Divide the farm into sampling areas. Each SA should be more or less
uniform in cropping history, past lime and fertilizer treatments, slope, degree of
erosion and soil texture and color.

2. Collect spot soil samples from each SA. In each SA dig 5-10 pits. Collect samples
based on the size of the sampling area. Spot sample is taken in the following
manner:

 Clear the soil surface from litters and vegetation

 Using a shovel or spade, dig a pit to a depth of 20-30 cm.
 From one vertical side of the pit, take a slice of 2-3 cm. thick soil with a
single downward thrust of the spade. Using a knife or trowel, trim the slice
of soil on both sides to a bar of 3-4 cm. width.
 Place thin bar of soil in pail or any suitable clean container.
 If the subsoil sample is needed, take a bar of soil from the succeeding 20-
30cm. soil depth. The subsoil and surface soil should be placed in separate
containers.

7
 3. Take composite soil samples.
After collecting all the spots and soil samples of a particular sampling
areas, pulverize, mix thoroughly and remove stones and fresh leaves from the soil
on the container. Place the composite soil samples about ½ kilograms in a clean
plastic bag. After that the composite samples which represents the soil of the
sampling area is now ready for chemical analysis. This may also be sent to a soil
testing laboratory with pertinent label and information.

LET US REMEMBER

Coconut can be planted in almost all types of soil, in hilly areas up to 5,000 ft
above sea level.
Soil sampling and soil analysis is important to determine the soil pH level.
Optimum growth of coconut can be attained in a soil pH of 5.5 – 6.5.

HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?

Read and understand the following questions and statements then write the
letter of the correct answer on your quiz notebook.

1. What particular soil nutrients do coconuts consume most?

a. potassium and magnesium
b. phosphorus and nitrogen
c. potassium and nitrogen
d. potassium and phosphorus

2. Coconut harvested with marketable tender nuts is from

a. 7-8 months old c. 10-11 months old
b. 8-9 months old d. 11-12 months old

3. Coconut harvested with marketable matured nuts is from

a. 11 ½ - 12 months old c. 13 ½ - 14 months old
b. 12 ½ months old d. 14 ½ - 15 months old

4. If the soil is acidic soil, add

a. commercial fertilizer c. rock phosphate
b. lime d. organic fertilizer

5. In tall varieties flowering starts from

a. 4-5 years c.6-7 years
b. 5-6 years d. 7-8 years

6. Which of the following color indicates a strong acidity based on universal

indicator?
a. red c. green
b. brown d. yellow

8
 7. The degree of alkalinity and acidity of soil.
a. time d. soil pH
b. acidic soil e. alkaline

8. What is the average yield of coconut per tree?

a. 70 – 140 nuts
b. 80 – 150 nuts
c. 90 – 160 nuts
d. 100 – 170 nuts

9. Palm trees tolerate soil pH ranging from

a. 4.0- 6.0
b. 5.0- 8.0
c. 6- 10
d. 7 – 12

10. How can you determine the nutrient deficiency in a certain area?
a. fertilizing
b. soil sampling and analysis
c. cultivating
d. irrigating

LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED

Fill-up the rubric to find out how good you are in you activity.

Group Members
Criteria
1 2 3 4 5
1. accessibility
2. availability of water supply
3. exposure to sunlight
4. soil condition

Legend:
Rating scale
1 = 75-79% 2 = 80-85% 3 = 86-90% 4 = 91-95% 5 = 96-100%

9
 If you were given the chance to have your own coconut plantation, where would
you want it to be?

RESOURCES

Farmland
Vicinity Map
Soil Testing Kit
Picture showing different land topographies

REFERENCES

Asuncion, Jr. Introduction to Tropical Crop Production

Manila: Saint Mary’s Publishing, 1976.

Bautista, Ofelia R. et al. Introduction to Tropical Horticulture.

Estrella, David. Agriculture and Industry

Quezon City: R. Obed’s Enterprises, 1996.

10
LESSON 2

PREPARE PLANTING MATERIALS

WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?

This lesson provides the students with the required knowledge, skills and values
in choosing appropriate varieties for planting and caring seedlings.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. identify the different varieties of coconut that are being planted in the Philippines;
2. choose the appropriate variety of planting materials; and
3. raise and care seeds and seedlings in the nursery.

LET US STUDY

Let Us Define

Bole – the trunk of a tree

Epicarp – outer layer of fruit wall
Spadix – a fleshy or succulent plant spike that bears tiny flower and
is usually enclosed in a leafy sheath spathe
Rachis – the main stem of a flower cluster or a compound leaf
Pinnae – any one of the several leaflets that make up a pinnate
compound leaf
Bunch – a cluster of fruits growing on a stem

Varieties of Coconut

The main concern in the use of improved coconut varieties is their apparent need
for high agricultural inputs. Coconut, like any other crop, requires proper cultural
management and upkeep throughout its lifetime to sustain high levels of production.
The use of genetically improved materials in combination with modest fertilizer
application assures a stable and high yield for many years.
In general, there are two distinct types of coconut: the tall and the dwarf. Their
basic characteristics and differences are shown in Table 1. Also, there are some
outstanding coconut varieties and F1 variety hybrids and these will be described later.
Unless otherwise specified, the varieties are recommended either for general use
as plantation material or selective purposes in areas which are suitable to coconut
growing.

11
Table 1. Basic Characteristics of Tall and Dwarf Coconuts
(Santos, 1991).

Traits Tall Dwarf

More widely Less widely
Geographic
distributed and distributed and non-
distribution
commercial commercial
Thin and either with a
Enlarged and with a
Stem circumference cylindrical or tapering
bulbous base
base
Mode of pollination Highly crossed Highly selfed
Either pure greens,
Pigmentation of nuts Most are mixtures of
browns, yellow and
and petiole of leaves greens and browns
red
Height increment per
Greater than 50 cm Less than 50 cm
year
Start of reproductive
Late (5-7 years ) Early (3-4 years)
maturity
Expected lifespan More than 50 years Less than 50 years
Nut size ( whole) Very small to large Very small to medium
Genetic variability
High Low
- within cultivar
Low High
- between cultivars
Generally more dense
Root distribution Less dense and few
and plentiful
Reaction to adverse Generally less Sensitive to hyper-
conditions sensitive sensitive
Cultural requirement Average High required
Leaf and Bunch
Very strong Fragile
attachment

1. Tall Varieties

The salient features of the more common tall varieties in the Philippines are as
follows:

Bago-Oshiro Tall – has an average variability of 32%. Copra per nut is about 210 g.
and its fruit composition is fairly good. If properly maintained, it produces about
100 nuts per palm per year.
Baybay Tall – has high copra per nut about 288 g., a relatively thin husk, generally
good uniform stand fast germinating, early flowering and robust stand. At an
average yield of about 88 nuts per palm per year, it is capable of producing nearly
3.5 tons of copra per ha under average growing conditions of rainfall and soil
fertility.
Laguna Tall – has fairly high number of medium-sized nuts averaging 156 per palm
per year. Copra per nut is 195 g on the average and fruit quality is good. This
population is highly variable in terms of fruit components and pigmentation.

12
 Makapuno – if not for its nuts filled with soft endosperm and very viscous liquid for
which it is locally noted for, Macapuno is no different from other varieties. Owing
to the lethal effect of the abnormal development of its endosperm, it is impossible
to propagate without the aid of embryo culture. Prior to the development of the
latter, Macapuno was propagated by planting seedlings grown from normal nuts
obtained from Macapuno bearing palms.
San Ramon Tall – variability in this variety is high, with average copra per nut of
about 220 g.
Tagnanan Tall – has excellent nut
composition and although not really large in
appearance, produces a mean copra per nut of
over 300 g. Like Baybay, this
population is highly uniform in stand.
Although late maturing, an advanced
generation of this variety produces an
average annual yield of 3 tons of copra per
hectare under average cultural
management of the age of 10 years from
planting.
Hijo Tall – like the Tagnanan tall, this variety
which is found in Davao del Norte is a highly
advanced generation of the local tall variety of
Mindanao. It could easily give annual
yields of 3 tons or more of copra per hectare at
maturity. It has a good combining ability
with a local red dwarf which is currently
a leading entry on a regional trial of promising
hybrids.

2. Dwarf Varieties

The salient characteristics of the common dwarf varieties found in Philippines are
as follows:

1. Catigan Green Dwarf – this dwarf variety (a.k.a. Rabara dwarf) produces round,
medium-sized nuts with about 210 g. of copra per nut because of its inherent
prolificacy and precocity (e.g. flowering could start as early as 20 months from
planting). Its cultural and climatic
requirements are also more exacting
than ordinary talls. A yield of over 3 tons
copra per hectare per year can be easily
achieved but this may be followed by a
slump in production in the following
year. This material and other dwarfs are
recommendable only in areas which are
highly suitable to coconut growing and for
selective planting around houses, parks and
seed farms for mass production of F1 hybrid seed nuts.
2. Tacunan Green Dwarf – also known as Rabanuel dwarf which is often referred
to as Bilaka like the Catigan green dwarf. Kapatagan green dwarf and various
other green dwarf varieties which are invariably early bearing. This dwarf type is

13
 easily recognized through its short spikelets, shrunken spathe, medium-sized
nuts with long stigmatic end and bulbous base. Copra per nut is about 230
gram. In the Bicol region, this variety was observed to withstand strong winds
better than other varieties.

3. Kinabalan Green Dwarf - discovered in Malita, Davao del Sur, probably the
highest fruited dwarf type with an average copra per nut of over 270 g. It grows
slowly in height and often displays a robust trunk.
4. Aromatic Green Dwarf – early bearing and prolific.
Its nuts are small, with thin meat, embryo covered
by a clump of meat not commonly observed in a
normal nut. Its unique sweetness and certain
taste makes it an excellent planting material
for young or ‘buko’ production (7-8 months old).

3. F1 Variety Hybrids

Results of recent evaluation show that aside from local

varieties, F1 hybrids may be planted. The latter are not
only more prolific and precocious but also possess certain
adaptive traits like more efficient use of fertilizer and other
environmental resources, earlier recovery from stress and stability which make them
more suitable for plantations and small-scale farms.

4. PCA Recommended Hybrids

Table 2 shows the basic features of the nine local hybrids that are recommended
by the PCA for general use. This recommendation was based on the initial outcome of
15 years of continuous research in coconut breeding at the PCA research center in
Zamboanga where growing conditions are far from being perfect; i.e. 4 to 5 dry months
per year.

The size of the nuts of these hybrids is medium, requiring 3 to 4 nuts to make a
kilo of copra. Average yields range from 3 to 3.4 tons copra per hectare at the age of 10
years. During very good years, copra yield can reach more than 5 tons.

After 15 years of study, nine (9) locally developed coconut hybrids and one (1)
local tall were selected from the pool of 67 hybrids and cultivars established in 11
genetic trials at the PCA-ZRC gene bank.

The coconut hybrids generally flower earlier (3-4 years from field planting) and
produce nuts one to two years earlier than the local cultivars. Under moderate
condition, i.e. 4 to 5 dry months per year, these hybrids have a potential yield of 5 tons
copra per hectare.

PCA 15-1 (CAT x LAG) – a cross between the Catigan green dwarf and Laguna tall.
Although less precocious than the MAWA hybrid, it has bigger nuts and higher
tolerance to bud rot disease to which the MAWA hybrids is found to be very
susceptible. Seedlings of this type are brown or green.
PCA 15-2 (MRD x TAG) – a cross between the Malayan Red Dwarf and the Tagnanan
tall variety. It bears nuts which resemble the Tagnanan tall in shape and

14
 percentage composition. Pure hybrid seedlings are recognizable by their brown
petioles. This hybrid has a high MCFA (c6:0-c12:0) of 72.2% and high Lauric acid
(C12:0) 0f 54.2%.
PCA 15-3 (MRD x BAY) – a cross between the Malayan red dwarf and the Baybay
tall. Like its male parents it produces nuts with excellent fruit composition. Its
seedlings have brown petioles.
PCA 15-4 (CAT x TAG) – a cross between Catigan Green Dwarf and Tagnanan Tall. It
possesses high and stable yield and is moderately resistant to environmental
stresses. It has a higher tolerance to bud rot and leaf spot diseases than MAWA.
PCA 15-5 (CAT x BAO) – a cross between Catigan Green Dwarf and Bago-Oshiro
Tall. It has high and stable yield with a potential yield of about 5 tons copra per
hectare. It has higher tolerance to bud rot disease than MAWA.

Table 2. Potential Yield and Basic Traits of 10 PCA Recommended Coconut

Hybrids and Cultivars (Breeding and Genetics Division, PCA Zamboanga Research
Center).

CATxLA MRDxTA MRDxB CATxTA CATxBA

G G AY G O
Potential Yield and
Basic Traits
(PCA 15- (PCA 15- (PCA 15- (PCA 15- (PCA 15-
1) 2) 3) 4) 5)
First Flowering 3-4.0 3-4.0 3-4.0 3-3.5 3-3.5
(yrs) 4 4 5 4 4
First Nut Harvest Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium
(yrs) Brown/ Brown Brown Brown/ Brown/
Nut Size Green 155 144 Green Green
Nut Color 117 20,972 21,968 119 124
Nuts per Palm (n) 15,849 16,090 16,673
Nuts per
Hectare/Year (n)
Copra per Nut (g) 254 272 271 277 283
Copra per Palm 30 42 39 33 35
(kg) 4 6 6 5 5
Copra per
Hectare/Year (t)
Weight of Whole 1,325 1,254 1,193 1,429 1,438
Nut (g) 374 298 307 377 372
Weight of Husk (g) 206 202 180 225 214
Weight of Shell (g) 437 456 447 473 473
Weight of Meat (g) 0.43 0.48 0.48 0.40 0.50
Fruit Quality
Value
MCFA (C6:0- 68.38 72.79 63.17 73.13 68.24
C12:0), % 52.20 54.51 52.04 53.66 53.68
Lauric (C12:0), % 4.03 3.37 5.43 3.36 4.42
Oleic (C18:1), % 0.39 0.32 0.72 0.37 0.63
Linoleic (C18:2), %
BCR* 1.75 1.76 1.83 1.56 1.47

15
 IRR (%) 31% 32% 32% 27% 25%
* under new planting scheme (with copra and shell as products).

Continuation…

Potential Yield MRDxPY TACxBA TACxTA BAY

CATxPYT
And Basic Traits T O G (AG2)
(PCA 15-
(PCA (PCA 15- (PCA (Local
6)
15-7) 8 15-9) Tall)
First Flowering
(yrs) 3-3.5 3-3.5 3-3.5 3-3.5 3-4.5
First Nut Harvest 4 4 4 4 6
(yrs)
Nut Size Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium
to Large to Large to Large
Nut Color Brown/ Brown Brown/ Brown/ Brown/
Nuts per Palm (n) Green 127 Green Green Green
Nuts per 125 17,089 127 128 114
Hectare/Year (n) 16,867 17,202 17,295 15,419
Copra per Nut (g)
Copra per Palm 254 254 310 303 322
(kg) 32 32 39 39 37
Copra per 4 4 5 5 5
Hectare/Year (t)
Weight of Whole
Nut (g)
1,131 1,085 1,423 1,404 1,549
Weight of Husk
328 289 312 320 388
(g)
179 173 239 235 250
Weight of Shell (g)
410 416 507 502 529
Weight of Meat (g)
0.50 0.50 0.48 0.48 0.45
Fruit Quality
Value
MCFA (C6:0-
C12:0), % 67.00 67.92 73.31 70.33 62.39
Lauric (C12:0), % 51.92 53.04 52.57 52.30 47.24
Oleic (C18:1), % 3.74 3.31 2.76 2.89 5.97
Linoleic (C18:2), 0.31 0.37 0.37 0.35 1.31
%
BCR* 1.50 1.43 1.88 1.78 1.72
IRR (%) 27% 25% 33% 31% 29%
*under new planting scheme (with copra and shell as products).

PCA 15-6 (CAT x PYT) – a cross between Catigan Green Dwarf and Tahiti Tall. It
has high and stable yield with good fruit quality value (50%). It has higher
tolerance to bud rot disease than MAWA.
PCA 15-7 (MRD x PYT) – a cross between Malayan Red Dwarf and Tahiti Tall. It
has high and stable yields and is moderately resistant to environment
stresses. It has higher tolerance to bud rot disease than MAWA.
PCA 15-8 (TAC x BAO) – a cross between Tacunan Green Dwarf and Bago-Oshiro
tall. It produces medium to large nuts. It has a potential yield of 5 tons

16
 copra/ha. It is resistant to bud rot and is relatively tolerant to adverse
environment.
PCA 15-9 (TAC x TAG) – a cross between Tacunan Green Dwarf and Tagnanan
tall. Nut size is medium to large. Copra per nut is about 286 to 303 grams. It
is resistant to bud rot and relatively tolerant to adverse environment.

Selection of Seednuts

Coconut is mainly propagated through seed and takes a long time before it
attains a stable level of production. Proper selection and planting of good quality
seednuts must be done to ensure a productive plantation.

Seednuts should be selected from a block of uniform palms producing an average

of at least 1,500 nuts per ha every 45 days (or 2.8 tons of copra per hectare annually).
Within this block, the selected mother palms should have at least 40 to 50 full-sized
nuts anytime of the year under ordinary farm conditions.

Nursery Management

Coconuts should be reared first in the nursery for six to ten months before they
are planted in the field. A nursery provides the opportunity to select the best seedlings
based on speed of germination and general vigor. Seedlings are also better established
as they are tended with more care than those directly planted in the field. More
vigorous seedlings are better raised in the nursery than in the field.

Pre-treatment of Seednuts

To hasten germination, partially brown seednuts should be stored in a ventilated

or open shed for 3 to 4 weeks. Storing completely brown seednuts is not necessary.
Soaking seednuts in water for 2 weeks, especially during the dry season, is desirable
because it enhances germination.

Germination and Germination Bed

A germination bed enables the selection of uniform and fast germinating

seedlings. The germination bed should be located in a level, well-drained place near a
water source, free from natural hazards, and with friable soil. The area should be first
cleared from weeds, stones, etc. A well-pulverized cultivated soil is a must.

As much as 240 nuts can be sown for every 160 seedlings needed. After four
months, ungerminated nuts are rejected but these could be still processed into copra.

A hectare of germination nursery holds about 150,000 to 180,000 seednuts. To

avoid excessive heat and evapotranspiration of seednuts, resulting to drying up of nut
water, nursery should be partially shaded and/or mulched with readily available plant
materials (straws, coconut leaves, etc.).

Nursery

After six to eight weeks in the germination bed, the seednuts start to germinate.
Germinated nuts could be transferred to polybags or a field nursery where they could

17
be reared further. This maybe actually done once or twice a week until four months
from sowing.

Types of Nursery

(Germinating nuts can be grown either in polyethylene bags or in a field nursery).

1. Polybag nursery – use black polyethylene bags with holes punched at the lower
side to permit drainage. Size of the bag would depend on seednut size and
whether set tilted or upright in the germination bed. For instance, use 41 cm x
41 cm (16” x 16”) polybag for small seednuts; use 46 cm x 46 cm (18” x 18”)
polybag of seednut if tilted and 41cm x 41 cm polybag if seednut is set upright.
Place loamy soil in the polybag and transfer seedlings therein. A hectare of this
type of nursery can accommodate 18,000 seedlings.

2. Field nursery – recommended when seedlings are transplanted less than seven
months and when polybags are not available. It is suitable for rolling to hilly
plantations.

A good nursery site must be well-drained with friable soil located near the
planting site. The area should first be cleared from weeds, stones, etc. The soil is
cultivated until fine.

About 40,000 seedlings can be raised in a one-hectare field nursery.

Care of Seedlings

Watering. In the absence of rain, seedling should be watered at least every other
day. The amount of water depends on the condition of the locality. On the
average, one liter of water per seedling per day is beneficial.

Crop Protection. Pest control measures for coconut seedlings are detailed in the
section on crop protection. It is, however, emphasized that a clean, weed-free
nursery is desirable in terms of pest and disease control.

Fertilizer application. Nitrogen and chloride-containing fertilizers should be

applied to ensure good growth and development. Applying ammonium sulfate (21-
0-0) as source of nitrogen and sulfur nutrients, plus either muriate of potash (0-0-
60) or common salt as a source of potassium and chloride nutrients, were found
effective. These are first applied when seedlings are two months old, followed by a
second application three months later when seedlings are five months old.

As a guide in fertilization for the second month, 1 tbsp of ammonium

sulfate plus 1 tbsp of muriate of potash or 2 tbsp each of both ammonium sulfate
and muriate of potash (or 4 tbsp of common salt) must be applied per seedling for
the fifth month. To avoid boron deficiency of seedlings, direct soil application of 2
g/seedling or 1-2 times spraying of 0.2% borax (2 g/liter water) may be done at 4-5
months nursery stage.

Shading. In the absence of a good water supply and in relatively dry areas;
seedlings grow better when the nursery is partially shaded. Insects that transmit

18
 the causal factors for diseases, such as dry bud rot and shoot rot, are inhibited by
shade, thus seedlings are subsequently spared. Coconut leaves are suitable
materials to use for shading. Before Field planting, however, the shade should be
gradually removed to harden or acclimatize the seedlings.

LET US REMEMBER

It is important to know the characteristics of the varieties you have chosen to

plant. Its yield, resistance and adaptability must be considered most. It is important
to provide the necessary care and management seedlings to obtain a good start for your
plant.

HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?

1. Which of the following varieties is not included in the group?

a. Bago-Oshiro c. Tagnanan
b. Makapuno d. Catigan Green

2. Which of the following hybrid is the cross outcome of Malayan red

dwarf and the Baybay tall?
a. MRD x TAG c. CAT x TAG
b. MRD x BAY d. CAT x BAO

3. How many weeks must seednuts be soaked in water before sowing?

a. 1 week c. 3 weeks
b. 2 weeks d. 4 weeks

4. In choosing the seedling for planting, it is proper to choose

a. by line c. by block
b. by nuts d. by group

5. What are the two distinct types of coconut in the Philippines?

a. Bago-Oshiro Tall and Baybay Tall
b. Tall and Dwarf
c. Catigan Green and Tacunan Green
d. Tagnanan Tall and Aromatic Green Dwarf

6. Reproductive maturity of tall varieties start from

a. 4 – 6 years
b. 5 – 7 years
c. 6 – 8 years
d. 7 – 9 years

7. How many weeks after sowing do nuts germinate?

a. 4 – 6 weeks
b. 5 – 8 weeks
c. 6 – 8 weeks
d. 6 – 7 weeks

8. How many seedlings can be raised in a hectare of nursery?

19
 a. 35,000
b. 40,000
c. 45,000
d. 50,000

9. Which of the following is a course outcome of Tacunan green dwarf and

Bago-ochiro tall?
a. PC 15-6 (CAT x PYT)
b. PC 15-7 (MRD x PYT)
c. PCA 15-8 (TAC x BAO)
d. PCA 15-9 (TAC x TAG)

10. The early bearing and prolific variety of dwarf coconut

a. Kanabalan green dwarf
b. Aromatic green dwarf
c. Taunan green dwarf
d. Catigan green dwarf

LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED

Collect different varieties and segregate them from each other. Germinate at least
10 nuts and raise them following the recommendation mentioned on this module.

Fill-up the rubric to find out how good you are in you activity.

A. Selection of seedlings
Rating
Activities
1 2 3 4 5
1. Select appropriate variety
2. Select good quality seedlings (uniform
size of nuts and well mature)
3. select from healthy and vigorous
mother plant (free from pests and
diseases)

B. Nursery Management
Rating
Activities
1 2 3 4 5
1. Pre-treated seednuts
2. Prepare germination bed (level, well
drained, etc.)
3. care seedlings (water, protection,
fertilizing, etc.)

Legend:
Rating scale
1 = 75-79% 2 = 80-85% 3 = 86-90% 4 = 91-95% 5 = 96-100%

20
RESOURCES

Fertilizers
Soil media
Pot bag
Coconut nuts (additional materials)
Crobar
Shovel

REFERENCES

Asuncion, Jr. Introduction to Tropical Crop Production

Manila: Saint Mary’s Publishing, 1976

Bautista, Ofelia R. et al. Introduction to Tropical Horticulture

Estrella, David. Agriculture and Industry

Quezon City: R. Obed’s Enterprises, 1996:

21
LESSON 3

PREPARE THE LAND AND PLANT THE COCO SEEDLING

WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?

This lesson deals on the preparation of the land and planting coconut seedlings.
It also includes cave of young palms.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

At the end of these topics, you should be able to:

1. prepare the area for planting;

2. lay-out and dig holes deep and wide enough to accommodate the root system of
the seedlings;
3. transport planting materials carefully;
4. take care of newly planted seedlings; handle tools and equipment properly; and
5. internalize the value of preparing the land well.

LET US STUDY

Let Us Define

Clearing – cutting of trees and other vegetation in an area of land that is forested or
grassy
Plowing – cultivating or tilling the land using draft carabao or tractor
Harrowing –breaking the soil clods into smaller pieces using a harrow Slopes – a
natural or artificial incline as in a hillside or terrace
Monoculture – planting a single type of crop in a field

Farm Establishment

Farm establishment involves thorough land preparation, proper spacing and

planting, and care of palms in the field.

Land Preparation

The extent of land preparation depends upon the situation and the site condition.
Situation. On slopes or other places where erosion is likely to occur, cover
cropping before or at planting time is advisable. Terraces constructed following the
contour lines also minimize erosion where water is likely to stay for several days

22
 after rains. In water-logged areas, palms generally exhibit yellowing of all leaves,
stunted growth and poor yield.

Condition. If the land has been cleared and is under cultivation, no special
advance preparation is necessary.
In forest areas, trees and bushes are first chopped down and the grasses
hoed. When cogon (Imperata cylindrica) covers the ground entirely, land
preparation by tractor is advantageous. Applying herbicides such as glyphosphate
at 3.1 kg/ha or diuron/paraquat at the rate of 4 kg diuron or 2 liters paraquat per
hectare is effective against the weed. The latter is advisable only during the wet
season.
In a moderately thick forest, clearing undergrowth, felling trees, and
cutting and piling woods into heaps should be done simultaneously. Heaps are
burned after a few weeks. This is especially advisable in places prone to rhinoceros
beetles infestation. Otherwise, heaps of wood may be piled between the rows and
allowed to decay under cover crops.

Planting System

The square and triangular methods of planting are commonly adopted. The
rectangular and group methods are suitable for special purposes.
The triangular system is preferred for monoculture in flat or slightly rolling areas.
The rows of coconut are oriented north-south for more efficient sunlight utilization. The
recommended planting distance in a triangular arrangement is either 9 m (for tall
palms) equivalent to 143 palms/ha. The triangular system can accommodate 15% more
palms than the space system considering the same distance of planting. As a guide,
table 3 shows the population or planting density under the typical square and
triangular system of planting.

Table 3. Square and Triangular Systems and Their Planting Densities

Population Density (Palms/Unit area)
Method
1 ha 2 ha 3 ha 4 ha 5 ha
Square:
8mx8m 156 312 468 625 781
8.5 m x 8.5 m 138 277 415 553 692
9mx9m 134 247 370 494 617
10 m x 10 m 100 200 300 400 500
Triangular:
8mx8m 180 361 542 727 903
8.5 m x 8.5 m 160 319 479 639 799
9mx9m 143 284 427 570 712
10 m x 10 m 115 230 346 462 577
When intercrops are grown, the rectangular method of planting is suitable. The
wider spacing between rows which are oriented east-west could allow more sunlight to
reach the intercrops.

Holing

The distance of planting determines the number of holes to be dug in a hectare.

The recommended size of the hole is 50 cu cm. In heavy soils, holing is a lot of hard

23
work. When mechanization is possible, a motor auger can be attached to a tractor
power point and increase holing efficiency. In ordinary case, crowbar is ideal for
digging holes of this size.
Dig the holes two to three months in advance of transplanting time to weather
and aerate the holes.. Keep the surface soil separate and use the subsoil in making
good bunds all around to prevent water from flowing into the hole.

Transplanting

Transplanting comes after thorough land preparation and proper selection of

seedlings. This is usually done after the seedlings have stayed in the nursery for about
six to ten months. However, four to five month old seedlings from any type of nursery
can also be used. This reduces labor cost and saves time in raising the seedlings in the
nursery.
Plant at the start of the rainy season for good palm development. In areas with
uniform rainfall year round, planting can be done any time of the year.
Plant the seedlings at the center of the previously prepared planting hole in such
a way that the top of the seednut’s husk is very lightly covered with soil. Firmly press
the soil around the base but never allow the soil to cover the seedling collar nor get into
the leaf axils.

When planting polybagged seedlings, cut the bottom portion of the bag before
placing the seedling into the hole. Cut the remaining intact portion of the polybag on
one side longitudinally and pull once the seedling is set. Partially cover the hole with
top soil.

Care of Young Palms

The first three to four years are the most critical period for the growing palm.
Giving careful attention during this period can make the palms bear early and well.

Protection from stray animals. Seedlings frequently grazed by animals

(particularly goats) seldom grow satisfactorily while trampling by farm animals may
harden and expose the ground surrounding the young palms. The palms can be
protected either by fencing individual plants or the entire plantation, whichever is
more practical.

Drainage. During heavy rains, be sure that water does not stagnate in seedling
holes continuously for long periods. Ideally, the ring bunds raised around the
seedling holes should be periodically repaired and kept in good condition. After the
rains, remove any excess soil washed down into the holes, covering the seedlings
collar and leaf axil. The holes can be gradually filled up as the seedlings grow and
form stems.

Watering. Watering is not necessary if the seedlings are planted early May or June
when the rainy season starts in areas with distinct wet and dry climate.

Weeding. Check weeds growth within a circle of about 1 m in radius by mulching

the area with dried weeds or any organic mulches. Aside from controlling weed
growth, mulching conserves soil moisture and regulates soil temperature. Coconut

24
 husk is the most common and abundant farm waste that can be used for
mulching. Two layers with concave side up are usually adopted.

Replanting. If all precautionary measures are taken, transplanted seedlings

should experience minimal casualty. Dead plants as well as seedlings showing
continuous unhealthy and stunted growth should be promptly replaced with good
ones, preferably of the same age. For this purpose, reserve 15 seedlings per hectare
for replacement.
Seedlings are gently lifted from the loose soil of the nursery bed using the fingers
or a large fork to raise the roots with minimum damage. After lifting, the seedlings
should be planted at once to avoid drying of the roots. Several seedlings may be
carried at a time in a hessian bag or basket and should be kept moist during
transport by splashing the roots with water periodically. Never lift the seedlings by
their end and leaves, but lift them by the nut.

LET US REMEMBER

It is important to prepare the area and holes and care for the plants early at the
stage to avoid stunted growth. A well started plant will result to better growth and
development.

HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?

Select the correct answer by writing the letter of your answer on your quiz notebook.

1. How many times should the coconut planting area be plowed?

a. 1 – 3 times c. 1 – 2 times
b. 2 – 3 times d. 2 – 2 times

2. What does monoculture mean?

a. 1 type of crop planted in an area
b. 2 types of crops planted in an area
c. 3 types of crops planted in an area
d 4 types of crops planted in an area

3. What is the ideal size of the hole for the planting of coconut?
a. 40 cu cm c. 60 cu cm
b. 50 cu cm d. 70 cu cm

4. What method on planting system is commonly adopted?

a. square and rectangular c. group and triangular
b. square and triangulard. d. group and square

5. How are rows of coconuts oriented for more efficient sunlight utilization?
a. north – south c. north – west
b. north – east d. north – north

6. The process by w/c soil clods are pulverized after plowing

25
 a. plowing
b. harrowing
c. levelling
d. digging

7. How many months should the coconut seedlings be when transplanted in the
permanent field?
a. 5-10 months
b. 6-10 months
c. 7-10 months
d. 8-10 months

8. How many seedlings are planted in a hectare if the distance of planting is 8 x 8

m?
a. 156
b. 138
c. 134
d. 400

9. What period is considered the most critical for growing coconut?

a. 2 – 4 years
b. 3 – 4 years
c. 5 – 7 years
d. 6 – 7 years

10. The process of replacing coconut that shows continuous

unhealthy and stunted growth.
a. planting
b. replanting
c. sowing
d. transplanting

LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED

In groups, do the plowing and harrowing of your area. After preparing, lay-out the
area and dig holes ready for planting coconuts.

Rating
Activities
1 2 3 4 5
1. Prepare the area thoroughly (cut
grasses, lay-out and dig holes w/
proper distance and depth)
2. Transport seedlings with care
3. Transport seedling properly (depth,
erectness, compacted soil)

26
4. Observe occupation health and safety
precautions while working

Legend:
Rating scale
1 = 75-79% 2 = 80-85% 3 = 86-90% 4 = 91-95% 5 = 96-100%

RESOURCES

Draft carabao
plow tractor with accessories
harrow sprinkler
crowbar spade
hole digger
pick mattock
shovel

REFERENCES

Asuncion, Jr. Ramon. Introduction to Tropical Crop Production: Manila.

Saint Mary’s Publishing, 1976

Bautista, Ofelia R. et al. Introduction to Tropical Horticulture

Estrella, David. Agriculture, and Industry

Quezon City: R. Obed’s Enterprises, 1996

LESSON 4

FERTILIZE, WEED AND CULTIVATE

WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?

This lesson deals with the application of fertilizer, weeding and cultivating.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

At the end of these topics, you should be able to:

1. identify the appropriate method of fertilizing coconut;

2. apply fertilizer at the proper time and proper rate properly;
3. weed and cultivate using appropriate tools; and
4. consider the importance of proper fertilizing, weeding and cultivating the crops.

27
LET US STUDY

Let Us Define

Leaching - is the downward movement in the soil of free water

resulting in the loss of soluble salts from the soil zone
Run-off – part of the rainfall in a particular area which is not
absorbed directly by the soil but is drained off in hills or streams
Shallow tillage - process of cultivating the soil not far below the
surface or top; lacking depth
Mulching – the process of placing loose materials, dried leaves, straw and stalks at
the base of plants to protect their roots
Fertilizer – material added to the soil to provide essential elements
and to improve the physical condition of the soil
Broadcasting method - method wherein fertilizer is applied
over the surface of the land. It may or may not be harrowed or
plowed deep into the soil

Judicious application of fertilizer increases nut and copra yield by as much as

230%. A study in Davao City showed that coconut farms can realize a net income
about 180% higher with fertilizer application compared to without fertilizer.

In the absence of soil and leaf analysis of an area farm, the average fertilizer
recommendation (Table 4, 3, 5, 7) provides the coconut at its different growth stages
and production with the three most needed nutrients (N,Cl,S) in most coconut areas
in the country. If other nutrients are required based on field experiments on
trials and other diagnostic methods, a guide may be used (Table 8).

On the other hand, broadcast nitrogenous fertilizers, particularly ammonium

sulfate and urea, either singly or in combination with other fertilizers, then
incorporate them in the soil with any digging tool.

For sloping and hilly areas, place fertilizers inside equidistant eight to ten
holes about 14 cm deep around the base of the palm within the one-to-two-meter
radius. Cover the holes with soil afterwards.

For Coastal Areas (palms planted within 2 km from the coastline):

Table 4. Using (NH4)2SO4+kcl (21-0-0+0-060)

Palm Age 21-0-0 0-0-60

Per Tree Per 100 Per Tree Per 100
TREES Tress
Field 150 g 15 kg 100 g 10 kg
Planting
6 months 200 g 20 kg 150 g 15 kg

28
 1 year 500g 50 kg 500 g 50 kg
2 years 750 g 75 kg 750 g 75 kg
3 years 1.00 kg 100 kg 1.00 kg 100 kg
4 years 1.25 kg 125 kg 1.25 kg 125 kg
5 yrs or 1.50 kg 150 kg 1.50 kg 150 kg
more

Table 5. Using (NH4)2SO4+NaCl (21-0-0+ common salt) for soils with adequate
K

Palm Age 21-0-0 0-0-60

Per Tree Per 100 Per Tree Per 100
Trees Trees
Field 150 g 15 kg 80 g 8 kg
Planting
6 months 200 g 25 kg 120 g 12 kg
1 year 500 g 50 kg 400 g 40 kg
2 years 750 g 75 kg 600 g 60 kg
3 years 1.00 kg 100 kg 800 g 80 kg
4 years 1.25 kg 125 kg 1.00 kg 100 kg
5 yrs. Or 1.50 kg 150 kg 1.20 kg 120 kg
more
For Inland Areas (palms planted more than 2 km from Coastline)

Table 6. Using (NH4)2SO4 + KCl (21-0-0 +0-0 60)

Palm Age 21-0-0 0-0-60
Per tree Per 100 Per Tree Per 100
Trees Trees
Field 150 g 15 kg 200 g 20 kg
Planting
6 months 200 g 20 kg 250 g 25 kg
1 year 500 g 50 kg 600 g 60 kg
2 years 750 g 75 kg 900 g 90 kg
3 years 1.00 kg 100 kg 1.50 kg 150 kg
4 years 1.25 kg 125 kg 1.70 kg 170 kg
5 yrs.or 1.50 kg 150 kg 2.00 kg 200 kg
more

Table 7. Using (NH4)2SO4 + NaCl (21-0-0 + Common salt) for soils with Adequate
K
21-0-0 Common
Palm Age Salt
Per Tree Per 100 Per Tree Per 100
Trees Trees
Field 150 g 15 kg 160 g 16 kg
Planting
6 months 200 g 20 kg 200 g 20 kg
1 year 500 g 50 kg 480 g 48 kg
2 years 750 g 75 kg 720 g 72 kg

29
 3 years 1.00 kg 100 kg 1.25 kg 125 kg
4 years 1.25 kg 125 kg 1.35 kg 135 kg
5 yrs. or 1.50 kg 150 kg 1.70 kg 170 kg
more

Table 8. Fertilizer nutrient recommendations for coconut (a guide)

Nutrient Per
Age Rate tree
N P2O5 K20 MgO S Cl
Field Planting 30 g 30 g 90 g 50 g 18 g 66 g
6 months 40 g 50 g .15 g 85 g 25 g .11 kg
1 year .10 .10 kg .35 kg 125 g 60 g .26 kg
kg
2 years .15 .15 kg .55 kg .25 kg 90 g .40 kg
kg
3 years .20 .16 kg .77 kg .35 kg .12 kg .53 kg
kg
4 years .30 .20 kg 1.00 .40 kg .18 kg .70 kg
kg kg
5 years or .40 .30 kg 1.20 .50 kg .24 kg .90 kg
more kg kg
When to Apply Fertilizer

For areas with distinct wet and dry seasons, those with irregular rainfall
distribution, and with sandy soils, fertilizers are best placed every six months through
split application. Apply the first half of the required amount at the start of the rainy
season. This practice helps reduce the loss of fertilizer through leaching and run off.
In areas with almost uniform rainfall distribution (1.5 to 3 dry months), fertilizers
are applied in split during the early years and annually thereafter.
The students must wear their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to avoid direct
skin contact to fertilizers and proper use and handling is observed.

Weed Control

For maximum productivity, suppress all weeds that compete with the coconut for
nutrients, water, or sunlight. However, keeping the soil bare is not always a good
management practice because apart from being laborious, it increases erosion risks
and nutrient loss, and causes loss of humus.
In practice therefore, bare soil is recommended only in flat areas with limited soil
moisture. Where there is adequate moisture, luxuriant growth of weeds or introduced
leguminous covers must be periodically checked. Weeding may be done manually or
mechanically; animals can be allowed to even feed on them. However, it is better to
leave about 1-1.5 m around the base of the palms uncropped.
To minimize soil water loss during dry season and the growth of weeds, mulching
with two layers of coconut husk around the base of coconuts can be done. Killing
weeds is very important. Therefore the crop should be planted very soon after
cultivating, so that it may grow as long as possible before new weeds invade the plants.
The recommended way of eradicating many persistent weeds is to plow first, to turn up
the roots and underground parts of the plants and then cultivate lightly (or rotavate) on
one or more occasions following the first plowing.

30
 The main reason for cultivating the soil is to kill weeds. However, weeds may also
be killed by means of chemicals which are given the collective name herbicides.
Herbicides are usually applied by means of spray and the chemicals are mixed with
water.

Some general rules to follow when using herbicides

1. Always read the instructions for use of the herbicide and follow them closely.
2. Do not handle with bare hands and avoid contact with the skin.
3. When spraying, make sure that you or others nearby do not breath in any of the
spray or flames.
4. Take care that there are no residues on the harvested crops.
5. Do not use a sprayer which has been used for herbicides for any purpose. Keep it
for herbicides only.
LET US REMEMBER

 Applying the right amount of fertilizer increases nuts and copra yield as much
as 23%.
 Keeping the soil bare is not always a good practice because apart from being
laborious, it increases erosion risks, loss of nutrients and humus.
 Mulching minimizes soil water loss during dry season and suppress weeds.
 Always follow the general rules in using chemicals.

HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?

Choose the correct answer then write the letters of your answer on your quiz
notebook.

1. The main reason to cultivate the soil is to

a. apply fertilizer c. kill the weeds
b. plant seedlings d. control insects

2. To minimize loss of water during dry season and growth of weeds around the
base of coconut,
a. water the plants
c. mulch the plants
b. cultivate around the base
d. place a tree guard

3. Fertilizer application in coconut increases the net income compared to non-

fertilization by
a. 170% c. 190%
b. 180% d. 200%

4. Controlling weeds with the use of herbicides is called

a. mechanical c. biological
b. chemical d. manual

31
 5. Areas with distinct wet and dry season, with irregular rainfall distributions and
sandy soils, fertilizers are best applied with an interval of
a. 4 months c. 5 months
b. 6 months d. 7 months

6. When is the best time to apply the first half of the fertilizer requirements of
coconut?
a. start of dry season
b. start of rainy season
c. peak of dry season
d. peak of rainy season
7. How many meters around the base of the palm do you leave uncropped?
a. 1 – 1.5 m
b. 1 – 2.0 m
c. 1 – 2.5 m
d. 1 – 3 m

8. What is the recommended way of eradicating many persistent weeds?

a. harrowing
b. plowing
c. digging
d. lay-outing

9. Chemical control of weeds is by means of

a. bylocides
b. herbicides
c. fungicides
d. insecticides

10. The required amount of 21-0-0 + common salt for coconut with the age of 5
years or more is
a. 1.5 kg/tree
b. 1.25 kg/tree
c. 750 g/tree
d. 500 g/tree

LET’ S APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED

Proceed to your respective areas and perform weeding and fertilization.

Fill-up rubric to find out how good you are in your activities.

Rating
Activities
1 2 3 4 5
1. Apply the right amount of fertilizer
properly
2. Weed and cultivate
3. Use appropriate tools
4. Personal protective equipment (PPE)

32
Legend:
Rating scale
1 = 75-79% 2 = 80-85% 3 = 86-90% 4 = 91-95% 5 = 96-100%

RESOURCES

Fertilizer Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Pail Farmland

REFERENCE

Asuncion, Jr. Introduction to Tropical Crop Production

Manila: Saint Mary’s Publishing, 1976

Bautista, Ofelia R. et al. Introduction to Tropical Horticulture

Estrella, David. Agriculture and Industry

Quezon City: R. Obed’s Enterprises, 1996:

33
LESSON 5

CONTROL INSECT PESTS AND DISEASES

WHAT IS THIS LESSON ABOUT?

This lesson deals with the pest and diseases of coconut and their control.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

At the end of this lesson you must be able to:

1. identify the different insect pests and diseases of coconut;

2. control insect pests and diseases of coconut;
3. observe strictly the safety measures in controlling insect pests and diseases; and
4. realize the importance of controlling pests and diseases of coconut.

LET US STUDY

Let Us Define

Disease – a harmful alteration of the normal physiology of the plant

Larvae – the first stage of the life cycle of insects after leaving the egg
Rodents – type of mammal that has long sharp front teeth as in a mouse
Specie – a group of individuals closely related in structure, capable of breeding within
the group but not normally outside

Among many plant pests, the most destructive are insects. They chew, pierce,
suck and bite crops, thus inflicting great damage to their hosts. Plants, like animals,
are also prone to multitude of diseases caused by various factors. The diseases affect
the normal appearance and productiveness of plants. A diseased plant is one
continuously being disturbed by a causal factor that upsets the normal activity of cells
or organs so much so that visible evidences is produced in the forms of characteristic
symptoms. This differs from injury which is only a temporary disturbance.
No plant specie or variety exists that is free from attack by pests and diseases.
Most plants are susceptible to many pests and disease-producing organisms, some of
which may, under favorable conditions, wipe out plants. In the Philippines there are so
many species of insect pests and diseases but only few are considered serious and here
are some of them:

34
1. Palm weevil. The palm weevil is one of the most harmful pests of the coconut
palm. Palms aged 3-15 years old are susceptible to the attack of the pest due to
its succulent tissues. The larvae, tunnel and feed in the trunk and cabbage,
oftentimes destroying the growing point which results to death of the palm.
Affected palms exhibited withered buds, drooping leaves, and eventually become
entirely crownless on its very advanced stage of infestation.

Control Measures:

1. Burn decaying logs to prevent rhinoceros beetle from breeding in them.

2. The crown and the soft portion of the trunk of newly felled coconut palms
should be splitted and burned to prevent palm weevil from breeding in them.
3. Cut and burn badly infested palms after gasoline/kerosene or dried coconut
leaves are placed in them in order to kill the different stages of the pest present.

2. Slug caterpillar. The slug caterpillar is a serious pest of the

coconut. The larvae or caterpillars eat the leaves of the
coconut palm and when abundant will result to complete
defoliation. Young palms are severely damaged than older
ones. Severe infestations occur during dry weather
and end soon after the onset of the wet season. Much
reduced photosynthetic activity of the palms result in
great yield loss.

Control Measures:

1. Establishment of leguminous crops under coconut

may directly control the slug caterpillar. These
crops attract insect parasites. The insect parasites
lay their eggs on the larvae of coconut caterpillar
and when the young ones develop from these eggs they
start feeding on the larvae, thus killing it.
2. Collection of caterpillar and destruction of cocoon can reduce the slug
caterpillar population to a certain degree.
3. In emergency cases, especially on young palms, spray infested palms with 4-
5 tbsp. of Hostathion 40, Basudin 20, Cotnion 40 to 1 big kerosene can of
water at the larval period of the pest at a 15-day interval.

3. Coconut leafminer. The leafminer is one the most destructive pests of the
coconut palm. Young and old trees are both attacked but infestation and damage
is worse on the old trees. In severe infestations the whole palm appears burnt.
The leaves become non-functional resulting to a considerable decrease in yield.

35
 Control Measures:

1. During the very early stages of infestation, the pests can be called to some
extent by cutting and burning affected leaves. This should be done when
detection is made very early and few fronds and palms only have been
attacked.
2. Establishment of leguminous cover crops like kudzu, colopogonium and
centrocema under coconuts may indirectly control the pests as the cover
crop can be source of food for multiplication of insect parasites which in
turn control the leafminer. The parasites lay their eggs on the pests or inside
the pests’ body. When the eggs of the parasites hatch out into young larvae,
it feeds on the body contents of the pests larvae, thereby destroying these
pests. In this way, the pest population is reduced as it is not given a chance
to complete its life cycle.
3. If spraying is feasible, spray palms with Basudin 20, Cotnion 40 or
Dimethon 200 E as soon as pest appears on young palm. Repeat spraying at
15 days interval until pest infestation subsides. The dosage is 4-5
tablespoonful to 1 big kerosene can of water.

4. Spike moth. The larvae or caterpillar of the greater coconut spike moth inflict
serious damage on male and female flower. They cause shedding of young
nuts. If 50 or more of nutfall is caused by greater coconut spike moth, the
pests can be considered harmful.

Control Measure:

Spraying with either Dipterex 80 or Sevin 85, 30-40 grams; or Lindane

20 EC, 5 tbsp. mixed with 1 big kerosene can of water as soon as first
damage is noted. Agral 90 at 2 tbsp. per can is added to spray solution to
facilitate penetration into the bunch. Repeat spraying at 15-day interval.

5. Atlas beetle. The beetle breeds on rotting palm logs and frequently found
together with the rhinoceros beetle. It seems to prefer more common as rotting
down progresses.

36
 Control Measures:

1. Farm sanitation. Unutilized coconut trunks, stomps, and wood must be

burned before they decay.
2. Other control measures for rhinoceros beetle can be practiced since the Atlas
Beetle occurs in conjunction with the pest. The two pests will normally be
controlled together.

6. Elephant beetle. The elephant beetles breed and lay their eggs in moist, dead
organic matter like wood, coconut trunks, sawdust, farmyard manure and
sugar cane trashes. They are capable of causing more severe damage than
rhinoceros beetle if their occurrence is not sporadic.

Control Measures:

1. Farm sanitation. ( as explained earlier).

2. Cover cropping. Leguminous cover crops like kudzu, colopogonium, and
centrocema may be allowed to grow over dead trunks and stump to
prevent/minimize the elephant beetle from breeding in them.
3. Other control measures for rhinoceros beetle can be practiced since the
elephant beetle occurs in conjunction with that pest. The two pests will
normally be controlled together.

7. Shot hole beetle. The shot hole beetle has been recorded as being harmful
only to trees which are already unhealthy. The presence of this pest is
indicated by numerous small circular holes all of the same size, in the trunks
of palms. It has a wide range of host plants, including oil palm, sugarcane and
rubber.

Control Measures:

1. Spraying. Spray the trunk of infested palms with 5 tbsp. of Dieldrex or

Thiodan mixed with 1 big kerosene can of water at 15-day interval.

37
 8. Plesispa beetle. The plesispa is elongated,
flattened beetle well adapted to live between
adjacent leaflets in the unopened leaves
before the leaves separate and leaflets unfold.
The adult and the larvae feed on both surfaces of
the closely oppressed leaflets. Both stages
grow long incisions in the tissues, parallel to
one another and to the veins of the leaflets.
When the infestation is severe, these incisions
are so close to one another that the whole of
the attacked part of the leaflets die. Thus,
photosynthesis is very much reduced. The
growth of infested young palm is delayed
and in prolonged outbreaks they may be killed.

9. Bag worm. The bag worm is a pest capable of

inflicting considerable damage to seedling
and young palms; but it also attacks older palms. The larvae are within a bag-
like enclosure with which it moves as if feeds on the leaves. There is a
progressive necrosis of leaf tissues and eventual skeletonization.

Control Measures:

1. Hand picking. If the worms are few, they could be handpicked and killed
by burying or burning. A regular inspection of young palms for early
detection of the pest is strongly recommended.
2. Spraying. In cases of serious outbreaks, bagworms can be satisfactorily
controlled by 30-50 grams of Dipterex mixed with 1 kerosene can of water
sprayed at 15-day interval. Spraying should be timed to coincide with the
maximum emergence of young larvae which are more susceptible to
chemical control than older ones.

10. Longwinged planthopper. The insects are small, dark blue and are found on
the undersides of the leaflets. The adult is bluish black with light spot, while
its hind wing is dark. The wing is 7 mm and holds its wings erect in V-shape.

Control Measures:
Spraying. Dimethoate, methyl parathion, Piremiphos-methyl and
Malathion may be used to spray the pest in emergency cases.

11. Lacewing bug. The body is black and 2.4 mm long. The wings are hyaline, and
the forewings are ornamented with a raised brown network.

Control Measure
Spraying. In case of outbreaks, Malathion, Methyl parathion and
Dimethoate may be tried against the pest.

12. Leaf folder. The larva is greenish-gray covered with waxy exudation with the
head having a distinct Y-shape marking. The larval pupal stages are found
inside rolled leaflets whose edges are span together by silk from caterpillars. Life
cycle lasts about a month.

38
 Control Measures:
Spraying. Spray Dimethoate recommended for slug caterpillar.

13. Coconut nymphalid. The caterpillar grows to a relatively large size of 90 mm. It
is greenish-gray to brown with darker longitudinal stripes. The body is just
beside the head. The young caterpillar has horns and posterior processes.

Control Measure:
Spraying. Insecticides recommended for slug caterpillars can be used
to control the pest.

14. Grasshoppers. The antennae are short, much less than the length of the body.
The grasshoppers are solitary; eggs are laid in pods on the ground. About 500
species are known.

Control Measure:
Spraying. Dieldren is popularly used against erthopterans, if
chemical spraying is necessary

15. Termites. Termites are sometimes quite erroneously called “white ants”. They
are social insects, living in large communities, sometimes in elaborate nests
both above and below ground, containing workers, soldiers, and reproductive
forms. They have biting/chewing mouth parts. Some genera have symbiotic
bacteria in the gut which break down the cellulose (wood) eaten by the insect;
others use the cellulose to cultivate fungi which are eaten.

Control Measure:
Proper plantation management and hygiene is preventive against
termite infestation. Fallen leaves, useless nuts and folded or broken
palms must be collected and burned. Seedlings in the nursery and
polybags, can be sprayed either with chlordane, Aldrin and Heptachlor.

16. Coconut lice. Coconut lice refer to

scale insects, aphids, mealy bug, and
spider mites. All of them have sucking
mouthparts and insert these mouthparts
into the sap. The plant sap contains
their food requirements only in very
dilute solution, so they must pass a large
quantity through their guts to meet their
needs. After passing through, the sap is
exuded by the plant lice as sweet
sticky substance called honeydew.
Honey dew is a valuable food for many
other insects including ants and
hymenopterous parasites. Honey dew usually becomes infested with a black
fungus known as sooty mold.

Control Measure:

39
 Heavy parasitism by predators (like coccinellid beetle) satisfactorily
controls coconut lice.

17. Scale insects. The coconut scale

attacks nursery young and old palms, but its
extent of damage is more serious in the former. In
severe outbreaks, it multiplies with such
abundance that it forms a continuous scurfy
layer all over the leaf undersides. The affected
leaflets or leaves finally wither and die, thus
reducing the vitality of the trees. Heavy attacks
on bearing palms may reduce yield
significantly.

Control Measure: (See Red spider

mites)

18. Aphids. Damage by these pests to coconut is seldom severe. However,

occurrence in nursery seedlings should not be overlook. Their feeding on the
leaves may mark twisting and distortion of the spears. Occasionally, when
dense infestation occurs, its presence results in the development of sooty molds

on the leaflets.

Control Measure: (Refer to Red spider mites)

19. Mealy bugs. Mealy bugs are common in coconut but they are not considered
as major pests. In the nursery, the insect often times co-exist with the coconut
scale in the foliage.

40
 Control Measure: (See Red spider mites)

20. Whitefly. This insect has been recorded in the Philippines to be capable of
causing serious damage on the coconut palm. When the population of the pest
is high it covers the lower surface of the leaf with a thick white layer of tangled
waxen thread.

Control Measures: (See red spider mites)

21. Red spider mites. These minute pests attack both

seedlings and mature coconut palms but are most
harmful mainly to young ones. They live in great
numbers under a web on the leaf undersides.
Their mass feeding results to numerous tiny lesions
causing it to turn bronze in color.

Control Measures:
1. Cocinellid beetle and lacewing feed on spider mites.
2. In case of outbreaks, spraying Agricid, Roxion, Malathion 57 is
effective against the pest.

Dosage
Agricid- 4-5 tbsp/19 liters water
Roxion- 5 tbsp/19 liters water
Malathion- 3-5 tbsp/19 liters water

22. Rat

The four key rodent species of Philippine cropland are the following:
1. Norway rat - Rattus norveqicus
2. Philippine ricefield rat - Rattus rattus mindanen
3. Asian ricefield rat - Rattus arqentiventir
4. Polynesian rat - Rattus exulans

Description:
1. Norway rat
a. large body, weighs 200 to over 500 grams
b. ears small, muzzle pointed
c. tail as long as head and body or shorter
2. Philippine rat
a. light weight,95-260 grams

41
 b. ears large, muzzle pointed
c. tail longer than head and body, broader at base
3. Asian ricefield rat
a. light weight,25-60 grams
b. ears large, muzzle pointed
4. Polynesian rat
a. light weight,25-60 grams
b. ears large, muzzle pointed
c. tail longer than head and body, thin at base

Control Measures:
Chemical Control. Chronic Toxicant-Anticoagulants
These materials inhibit the clotting mechanism of the blood causing
hemorrhages throughout the body, affected animals literally bleed to death. Other
notable properties of anticoagulants are their effectiveness at relatively low
concentrations and their slow toxic action. The slow poisoning action prevents rats
from developing bait shyness thereby more rats are killed by the poison.
Pre-baiting is also necessary.
Warfarin, Coumatetralyl, Coumachlor, Chlorophacinone, and Diphacinone belong
to this category.

Diseases of Coconut:

1. Cadang- Cadang
Cadang-Cadang is the most destructive disease of coconut in the country. On a
conservative estimate, about 12 million palms were destroyed by cadang- cadang from
1926-1971 in the Bicol peninsula alone. Presumably, more trees were destroyed in
other affected provinces.
The disease is presently restricted to some parts of the country. Its occurrence
was first reported from San Miguel Island, Albay in 1946. By 1950, the diseases had
spread in epidemic proportions to the provinces of the Bicol Peninsula, namely:
Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay and Sorsogon.

Control Measures:
In the absence of a conclusive proof of the diseases, the most
practical recourse at the moment is to cut down the indicated palms after the
symptoms of the disease is certain. Replant the devastated areas with early bearing
palms or seedlings coming from survivor palms.
Dispose the cut trunk properly since they will
become a potential breeding place for pests,
particularly the rhinoceros beetle (See
Rhinoceros beetle and its control).

1. Bud Rot
Bud Rot is one the most destructive diseases
of coconut. It is a fatal, communicable disease which
could infect coconut palms in almost all stages of its
development.
Sporadic outbreaks of bud rot have been observed
on most coconut growing regions of the country.

42
Widespread occurrence of the disease is known in the highlands of Laguna, Quezon,
Batangas and Cavite. As a result, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) in
cooperation with the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and Coconut Producers Federation
(COCOFED) has in the early part of 1976, launched “Operation Bud Rot”, which
involved the cutting down of more than 35,000 diseased coconut palms in these
provinces.

Control Measures:
In most cases, the palm is good as dead when symptoms of the diseases become
visible, especially so when the youngest leaves have already dried up and collapsed.
Cutting down the infected palm and burning the whole crown is strongly advised.

3. Shoot Rot
Shoot rots are usually fatal to coconut seedlings.
Sporadic occurrences have been observed on seedlings
at the nursery stage and also on young field planted
palms up to 2 years old. Two types of rotting have been
commonly observed in the nurseries namely: Shoot
Type I and shoot Type II.
Shoot Rot Type I may be attributed to
mechanical causes such as cracked shell or injuries
resulting from poor handling of seednuts.
Shoot Rot Type II is highly suspected to be caused by
physiological factors (i.e. water stress)
mechanically or initiated by insects.

Control Measures:
1. Spraying. Spray with fungicides; then paint the
wound with coal tar.
2. Burning. Burn the rotten shoot and the affected
tissues taken out from the young palm. Pass over the flame the instruments
used for scooping to eliminate possible source of contamination.
3. Shading. Place temporary shade over the treated seedling until it recovers to
protect it from rain. Moisture is a predisposing factor for the growth of the
micro-organism.

4. Leaf spot
The most common leaf diseases of coconut are leaf spots. They are found
wherever coconut are occurring both in the nursery and field planted palms.
The disease causes damage to coconuts by reducing the general vitality of the
palms due to a much hindered photosynthetic activity of the leaves. Occurrence of
leaf spots in seedlings affects the palms early vegetative performance in the field.
The disease also greatly affects the earliness of bearing and yield of field palms.

Control Measures:
1. Spraying. If symptoms become noticeable, institute spraying of fungicides
so that outbreak of the diseases can be arrested. The following fungicides

43
 with corresponding dosage sprayed at 15 days interval are found to control
leaf spot satisfactorily.

Fungicides Dosage
(tbsp/gal. water)

Copper oxychloride (Vitigran blue) - 3

Daconil ( Daconil 2787 ) - 3.6
Captan ( Captex W50; Captan 50) - 3
Maneb (Maneb 80) - 3
Catafol ( Difolatan ) - 3

2. Burning: Burn the cut leaves to minimize possible sources of infection.

LET US REMEMBER

Pests and diseases are very destructive that affect growth and yield of coconut in
the country.

HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?

Select the correct answer by writing the letters representing your choice on your
answer sheet.

1. The total communicable disease which could infest coconut palms in almost
all stages of its development.
a. cadang-cadang c. shoot rot I
b. bud rot d. shoot rot II

2. Which of the fungicides given below cannot control leaf spot?

a. daconil c. catafol
b. captan d. chlordane

3. At what age of the coconut palm is it susceptible to palm weevil?

a. 2-10 years old c. 4-20 years old
b. 3-15 years old d. 5-25 years old

4. Which of the following insect pests feed on the leaves of

coconut?
a. slug caterpillars c. elephant beetle
c. coconut leafminer d. atlas beetle

5. Shoot rot attacks the coconut at what stage?

a. nursery to 2 years old b. nursery to 3 years old
b. nursery to 4 year old d. nursery to 5 year old

44
 6. Pests that attacks both young and mature palms but more harmful to young
ones.
a. aphids c. mealy bug
b. spider mites d. termites

7. A greenish gray larva covered with waxy exudation with head having Y shape
marking.
a. plesispa beetle c. coconut nymphalid
b. leaf folder d. lace bug

8. Which pest is capable of inflicting considerable damage in seedlings and

young plants?
a. shot hole beetle c. grasshopper
b. bag worm d. coconut lice

9. It inhibits the clotting mechanism of the blood causing hemorrhage

throughout the body.
a. chronic toxicant c. dipterex
b. malathion d. Thiodan

10. A fatal communicable disease which could infect coconut in almost all
stages.
a. Cadang-cadang c. shoot rot
b. bud-rot d. leaf spot

LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED

Collect different insect pests and diseases on the coconut farmland and identify
each and state their control measures.

RESOURCES

Coconut farmland
Sprayer
Pesticides/Fungicide
Personal protection equipment (PPE)

45
REFERENCES

Abad, R. G. Evaluation of Seven Fungicides in the Control of

Coconut Leaf Spot in the Nursery Stage.

Prudente, R. L. and S.S. Magat. Incidence of Leaf Spot in Coconut

Fertilized with Various Combination of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium
Chloride.
The Philippine Journal of Coconut Studies, 1978.

San Juan N. C. and Blancaver, R. C. Diseases of the Coconut Palm.

UP Los Banos, Laguna, 1977.

Crop Protection Division. Guide Book on Coconut Pests and Diseases.

Davao Research Center, Agricultural Research Branch, Philippine
Coconut Authority

46
LESSON 6

HARVEST, MARKET AND KEEP FARM RECORDS AND ACCOUNTS

WHAT IS THE LESSON ABOUT?

This lesson deals with harvesting and keeping farm records and accounts.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

Upon completion of this module, you should be able to:

1. identify the different method of harvesting coconut;

2. harvest coconut using the appropriate method;
3. market coconut products considering the best practices;
4. prepare and keep accurate farm records on expenses, sales, inventory and
miscellaneous expenses; and
5. consider the relevance of keeping farm records and accounts.

LET US STUDY

Let Us Define

Inflorescence – the way in which flowers are arranged or developed

on an axis
Tedious – boring, causing psychological fatigue, usually because
of needles repetition and lengthiness
Marketing – to sell or dispose of the ownership of goods, property
or rights to another or others in exchange for money
Harvesting – the gathering in of ripe crop products
Scythe-shaped knife – a long, curved blade with a sharp edge on
the inner side of the curve, fitted to a long wooden handle

The female flower of the coconut tree develops into a mature nut in 12 months. A
regularly bearing tree produces an inflorescence on every axil at 1 month intervals. A
bunch is then ready for harvest every month. Though this is the case, we do not
harvest every month due to high operation costs. Usually, we harvest only 3 to 6 times
a year.
Nuts have high oil quality and quantity when harvested at 12 months old that is,
when they are fully matured. Loss in oil quality and quantity is 6 percent when nuts
are harvested at 11 months old.

Methods of Harvesting

47
 1. Collection fully mature nuts that have fallen.
2. Climbing the tree.
3. Cutting the clusters with a sharp curved knife fastened to a long, slender pole.

Our most common tool in harvesting coconut is the short, scythe-shaped knife.
In Luzon, coconut farmers mount this at the end of a slender bamboo pole about 7 to 8
feet long. In Visayas and Mindanao, people climb the tree and use a sharp tool in
cutting the clusters of nuts. Both methods of harvesting are tedious and expensive.
With this method, both ripe and immature nuts are gathered at the same time. As a
result, immature nuts crack upon hitting the ground. Also, a mixture of ripe and unripe
nuts results in poor quality copra.

Marketing Coconut and Record Keeping

Marketing of coconut products varies in most parts of the country. In Luzon and
Southern Tagalog provinces, some people sell young and tender coconuts. They sell
them in parks, resorts, terminals and waiting stations. Young coconuts are in great
demand among travelers in these places. In Laguna and Quezon provinces, many
producers sell mature nuts for dessicated coconut, copra and oil. In Visayas and
Mindanao, copra is still preferred. Records are indispensable in any business venture.
Record keeping should start at the time you plan your business.

Good Record Keeping:

a. guides you in making decisions

b. tell you what happens and when
c. reminds you of the weak points of your project
d. tells where you stand in the business
e. is needed when you compute for your income taxes and insurance
f. helps you find ways of making grater profits
g. helps you secure loans for expansion of your project

Some important records to keep in coconut production are:

1. short and long range program of work

2. prospectus or economics of the project
3. farm cash accounts
4. records of expense and receipts
5. records on income
6. labor records
7. investments records
8. others that you think necessary
Your short and long range program of work should include the following:
1. aims and goals of your project
2. ways and means to achieve your aims and goals
3. possible equipment, tools, supplies, and materials needed
4. labor and amount of funds required
5. calendar of activities
6. expected problems and possible solutions

48
 The prospectus or economics of the study is closely related to your program of
work. Here, you have to determine two aspects: investment capital or expenses and
operational expenses. Investment expenses should include the value of land purchased
or leased, equipment or farm tools and implements, buildings, bodega, dryer, etc. These
things will last for several years. You should have a depreciation rate of about 9 – 12%
yearly. This item on depreciation is important when you conduct your inventory.

Operational expenses may include the following:

a. project maintenance expenses which may include costs of fertilizers,
planting materials, weeding, cultivation, etc.
b. supplies and materials-hardware, small tools, nursery
supplies food for workers and others.
c. labor expenses in harvesting, replanting, etc.
d. land lease or amortization per year
e. chemicals and drugs for control of pests and diseases
f. repairs of buildings, bodegas, nursery sheds, etc.
g. depreciation for machinery, buildings and other
equipments
h. sundry or miscellaneous expenses

Other suggestions in keeping good records are:

a. keep records complete, readable and neat

b. put records in a safe place, well protected from rain, dust
and mutilation by other person
c. keep records intact, compiled year after year
d. make simple indices, file your records systematically

These reminders are very essential because you are dealing with a project that
will last for decades. In coconut projects you should not be alarmed if you loss for the
first 7 – 10 years. Keep it going and invest more. Your patience and sacrifices will soon
be rewarded once your crops start bearing.

LET US REMEMBER

This lesson provides the different ways and control measures of the different
insect pests and diseases that greatly affect the production of coconut.

Well prepared and kept records will help the farmer in making wise decision
pertaining to his farming. It will help him analyze the operation at the end of every
farming season. It is his guide in instituting reforms for his future farming operations.

HOW MUCH HAVE YOU LEARNED?

Choose the correct answer by writing the letter representing your choice only on
your quiz notebook.

49
 1. What is the most common tool in harvesting coconut?
a. bamboo pole
b. short scythe-shaped knife
c. sharp tool
d. axe

2. In investment expenses include the following except

a. value of land purchased or leased
b. equipment or farm tools and implements
c. buildings and bodega
d. labor

3. Which of the following important records is not included?

a. farm cash accounts
b. records of expense and receipts
c. records of income

4. A regularly bearing tree produces an inflorescence on every

axil at
a. 1 – month
b. 2 – months
c. 3 – months
d. 4 – months

5. Nuts have high oil quality and quantity when harvested at

a. 8 months
b. 9 months
c. 11 months
d. 12 months

6. Harvesting coconut is usually done

a. 3 – 5 times a year
b. 3 – 6 times a year
c. 3 – 7 times a year
d. 3 – 8 times a year

7. In Visayas and Mindanao, the most common way of harvesting coconut is

a. cutting
b. climbing
c. use of bamboo pole
d. use of rope

8. How many percent of the quantity and quality of oil is lost when harvested
in 11 months.
a. 4%
b. 5%
c. 6%
d. 7%

9. The most preferred coconut products in Visayas and Mindanao

50
 a. oil
b. copra
c. tender nuts
d. matured nuts

10. The process of gathering ripe products

e. marketing
f. harvesting
g. record keeping
h. collecting

LET US APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED

1. Form groups and perform harvesting by using the different tools.

2. Make a farm record of your harvest and sales.

RESOURCES

rope, scythe, ladder, binder/loops, long bamboo pole, heavy blade knife, sacks,
transportation facilities

REFERENCES

Nayga, R. C. Coconut Production in the Philippines (A Student Manual

for Use in Vocational Agriculture). Bureau of Vocational Education

51
POST-TEST

Let’s find out how much you learned from the module. Answer the questions
honestly by selecting the best answer. Write your answer on your quiz notebook.

Direction: Select the best answer. Write the letter of your answer on your quiz
notebooks.

1. The process by which dried leaves/grasses are placed at the base of the young
coconut to protect their roots and preserve moisture content.
a. weeding
b. cover cropping
c. mulching
d. weeding

2. Which spacing is best for planting coconut?

a. 10x10 meters
b. 10x12 meters
c. 12x12 meters
d. 10x15 meters

3. The most common tool in harvesting coconut is

a. short scythe/sharp knife
b. bolo
c. bamboo
d. rope

4. During what particular season must the first half of the required amount of
fertilizer be applied to coconut?
a. start of dry season
b. start of rainy season
c. peak of dry season
d. peak of wet season

5. Coconut harvested with marketable tender nuts is from

a. 7-8 months old
b. 8-9 months old
c. 10-11 months old
d. 11-12 months old

6. Which of the following color indicates a strong acidity based on universal

indicator?
a. red
b. brown
c. green
d. yellow

7. Palm trees tolerate soil pH ranging from

a. 4.0-6.0
b. 5.0-8.0
c. 6.0-10

52
 d. 7.0-12

8. In choosing the seedlings for planting, it is proper to choose

a. by line
b. by nuts
c. by block
d. by group

9. Reproductive maturity of tall varieties start from

a. 4-6 years
b. 5-7 years
c. 6-8 years
d. 7-9 years

10. Which of the tall variety group has an average copra per nut of about 220g?
a. San Ramon tall
b. Tagnanan tall
c. Hijo tall
d. Laguna tall

11. Which of the hybrids flower earlier at approximately 3-4 years from field
planting?
a. F1 variety hybrids
b. PCA recommended hybrids
c. PCA 15-3 (MRD x BAY)
d. PCA 15-4 (CAT x TAG)

12. How many months must coconut be reared in the nursery before they are
planted in the permanent field?
a. 6-13 months
b. 6-12 months
c. 6-11 months
d. 6-10 months

13. What are the two distinct types of coconut in the Philippines?
a. Bago-Oshiro Tall and Baybay Tall
b. Tall and Dwarf
c. Catigan Freen and Tacunan Freen
d. Tagnanan Tall and Aromatic Green Dwarf

14. What does monoculture mean?

a. 1 type of crop planted in an area
b. 2 types of crop planted in an area
c. 3 types of crop planted in an area
d. 4 types of crop planted in an area

15. What is the ideal size of a hole for planting coconut?

53
 a. 40 cu. cm
b. 50 cu. cm
c. 60 cu. cm
d. 70 cu. cm

16. What period is considered most critical in growing coconut?

a. 2-4 years
b. 3-4 years
c. 5-7 years
d. 6-7 years

17. The recommended way of eradicating many persistent weed in coconut

plantation is
a. harrow first
b. plow first
c. dig first
d. none of these

18. Small dark blue insects, which are found in the underside of the leaflets.
a. bagworm
b. laceworm bug
c. longwinged planthopper
d. leaf folder

19. Termites are sometimes quite erroneously called

a. aphids
b. white ants
c. white hoppers
d. grasshoppers

20. Which of the following rodent species weighs 200 to over 500 grams?
a. Polynesian rat
b. Asean ricefield rat
c. Philippine rat
d. Norway rat

54
KEY TO CORRECTION

55
Pre-test LO 3 LO 6
1. B 1. B 1. B
2. A 2. A 2. B
3. B 3. C 3. A
4. B 4. A 4. A
5. A 5. A 5. D
6. A 6. B 6. B
7. B 7. B 7. C
8. B 8. A 8. C
9. B 9. B 9. B
10. B 10. B 10. B
11. A
12. A LO 4 Post-test
13. A 1. C 1. C
14. B 2. C 2. A
15. B 3. B 3. A
4. B 4. B
LO 1 5. B 5. B
1. A 6. B 6. A
2. A 7. A 7. B
3. A 8. B 8. C
4. B 9. B 9. B
5. A 10. A 10. A
6. A 11. B
7. D LO5 12. B
8. B 1. A 13. A
9. B 2. D 14. A
10. B 3. D 15. B
4. A 16. B
LO 2 5. A 17. B
1. D 6. B 18. C
2. B 7. B 19. B
3. B 8. B 20. D
4. C 9. A
5. B 10. B
6. B
7. A
8. B
9. C
10. B